Did you know? The word Picpoul means “lip stinger” in French. This grape was given the name because of the higher acidity compared to most white wines in France. Originating in the Languedoc Roussillon appellations of Southern France, you’ll also find Picpoul growing well in Catalonia, Spain, Portugal, and with about 100 acres across the US.
Piquepoul de Pinet was from the village of Pinet, grows prolifically in this area, and has been cultivated for wines since the 1300s. Picpoul was once blended with Clairette Blanc (one of the oldest varietals of the area) to produce the wine, Picardan. Picpoul noir can be blended for the production of Chateanauf-du-Pape. Piquepout de Pinet is the name of the appellation, yet we see the wine grape referred to with the spelling as Picpoul.
You’ll find zingy citrus notes of lime and lemon intermingling with juicy grapefruit, green apple, white flower blossoms, plus the minerality of limestone and brine. These wines pair well with seafood dishes such as salmon, swordfish, scallops, clams, oysters, nearly any dish with a rich cream or butter sauce, and rich cheeses.
To do your own comparison at home, we recommend Lost Draw Texas 2018 Picpoul Blanc, Bending Branch 2017 Paso Robles Picpoul Blanc, and Hugues Beaulieu 2018 Picpoul de Pinet from France. Cheers!