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90POINTS
16½/20
Chateau d'Orignac Pineau des Charentes NV
FranceThis very small chateau is owned by the head winemaker at Argadens, Yvan, who has been with the winery for more than 20 years. Over the years, he had been producing but not selling anything, accumulating cognac in barrels while producing grape juice every year. Far too busy to distill, he just let the barrels lineup until was compelled by friends and his colleagues at Argadens to bottle and sell this unique product. Made entirely differently than its contemporaries in Cognac, this Pineau des Charenes uses cabernet sauvignon and merlot in the blend, unlike Ugni Blanc, the grape used by near everyone else. Five year old Cognac is added to unfermented grape juice, killing off the yeast, and holding in the sweetness. Once the blend is complete, this goes back into barrel for four more years - another rarity. Very gentle, silken smooth, with maple kissed bacon, salts, orange essence, and a dusting of baking spice lacing the finish. A juicy swell of acidity keeps this medium bodied sweetie buoyant. Very elegant at 95 g/l RS, 18 degrees, and with no added sulphites.Serve chilled as an aperitif alongside cheeses, nuts, fruits, melon in prosciutto and pâté.Tasted: 29 October 2018Tasted by: Treve RingPrices:| BC | $38.00 | 750ml | private wine shops |
Blend: Merlot - Cabernet SauvignonCSPC: 436691
