Villa Blanche 'Les cepages anciens' Piquepoul Noir 2021
93 POINTS: Wine Direct Tasting Team
16/20 POINTS: Jancis Robinson
"Laurent Calmel and Jerome Joseph continue their quest to bring the great and unique grapes of Languedoc-Roussillon to a wider audience with this silken, black fruit-laden and spice-edged wonder. Dark, ruby colour, the nose is fresh with aromas of ripe red cherry and berry fruit along with notes of dark raspberries, and a blend of spices, florals and liquorice. Medium-bodied, the palate has soft and gently rich character, vibrant fruit flavours of red cherries and berries with savoury spice, herb and floral touches. This is really lovely and gluggable , the fruit is sweet and juicy, and is underlined by balancing fresh acidity. A great alternative to the 'heavier' wines of the region, this is all about elegance and balance. You could say it is 'light on its feet'!"
- Wine Direct Tasting Team
There's some debate as to how Piquepoul Noir got its name. A translation of 'lip stinger' is one explanation while another put forward has something to do with chickens picking the grapes in the vineyard. We think lip stinger is the best because this red is lip-smacking good!
Astonishingly good and as rare as hen's teeth (maybe that's the chicken bit explained!). At the end of the last century there was thought to be only 200 hectares left globally. And that's despite the fact this is one of the just 18 varieties allowed to be used in Chateauneuf-du-Pape!
Calmel et Joseph have resurrected this ancient grape variety simply because it is great enough to be out there and rediscovered.
ABV: 12.5%