17% abv, imported by Deutsch Family Wine & Spirits, Stamford, CT. Cork closure: rubber cap. Biodynamic calendar: root day.
Winemaking notes: an assemblage of roughly 75% unfermented grape juice (from Ugni Blanc, Colombard and Folle Blanche grapes) from the Grande Champagne district fo Cognac, and 25% barrel aged Cognac, the cuvée is then aged in French oak barrels from the Limousin forest for over twelve months and assembled in tank before bottling. It is recommended that Pineau de Charantes be chilled slightly, consumed in a few days after opening (much like a white wine) and kept at a cool temperature once opened. I find this to be good advice, but I’ve found they can be enjoyed for a couple weeks after opening if well cared for.
Tasting note: the Pineau de Charantes is medium gold in color with hints of amber on the rim, with a clean and pungent nose of pronounced intensity with aromas of lilac, honey, toffee, butterscotch, green apple, candied lemon rind, cinnamon, radian, cardamom, fennel. On the palate the vin mistral is sweet with medium acid, high alcohol, a full body, pronounced flavor intensity and a long finish with flavors of preserved peaches, marmalade, ginger, toffee cake, cinnamon, candied orange, tangerine spray, and a hint of caramel. Drink now, this vin de liqueur (mistelle) from the Charente region in the SouthWest is outstanding: 9.6/10.