Looking for a wine with history, versatility, and undeniable charm? Meet Pineau d’Aunis—a Loire Valley treasure that sommeliers in the know are falling in love with all over again.
Key Facts:
Grape: Pineau d’Aunis—historic and nearly lost to time
Region: Coteaux Vendômois, Loire Valley
Style: Diverse. Can be light-bodied reds, mineral-driven rosés, and sparkling wines, but, as the ancient vines at Domaine Ptrice Colin demonstrate, it can also be made into fuller bodied, age-worthy still red wines.
Why It’s Special:
Pineau d’Aunis is a thousand-year-old grape with deep roots in French winemaking. Once a favorite of King Henry III, it thrives in the Coteaux Vendômois terroir, ripening late to avoid frost and naturally resistant to disease. Today, it satisfies the modern palate—lighter, fresher wines with complexity and character, much like Pinot Noir but spicier and even more approachable.
Tasting Notes:
From younger vines, expect a wine bursting with vibrant red berries, delicate aromatics, and a whisper of spice. Its natural acidity and finesse create a refreshing, energetic profile.
Emilien, a flagship cuvée of Pineau d’Aunis crafted from 90- to 100-year-old vines at Domaine Patrice Colin. This wine highlights the full potential of Pineau d’Aunis, breaking away from its reputation as merely light and spicy. Emilien stands out for its structure, elegant tannins, and aromatic complexity, featuring red fruits, stone fruits, and refined spices like saffron, beyond the typical pepper notes.
Winemaking Highlights for Emilien:
Meticulous harvest with rigorous selection to ensure perfect ripeness.
Long macerations of 4 to 5 weeks, depending on vintage conditions.
Short aging (8-9 months) to maintain typical aromatics while achieving rounded tannins and rich texture.
Aging Potential:
Emilien reaches its peak between 8 and 9 years, with softened tannins and preserved aromatic freshness. While it can age longer, this period ensures the best expression of Pineau d’Aunis’ distinctive elegance and complexity.
Why Add It to Your Shelf or List?:
Pineau d’Aunis is a conversation starter—a rare find with a compelling story. It’s the perfect discovery for curious guests, offering freshness, finesse, and versatility at a time when
lighter, food-friendly wines are in demand.
Ask us to taste this amazing grape in all of its diverse styles!
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