Feature Grape: Pineau d'Aunis

Pineau d'Aunis

Pineau d'Aunis is an ancient variety of the Touraine and Anjou-Saumur AOC's of the Loire region. It dates all the way back to medieval times, being popular through the 13th and 15th centuries. The name "Pineau" sounds like "Pinot" and comes from the same linguistic root that translates as "pine cone," due to the tightly knit grape clusters, but it is not related to the Pinot family. Similarly, it's synonymous name is Chenin Noir but has no relation to the Chenin Blanc variety. The grape is often blended with Cabernet Franc and other Loire varieties to produce both red and rosé wines. On it's own, Pineau d'Aunis can have the characteristics of white pepper and red berries on the nose, a nice minerality to the taste, and a crisp floraly finish.

FOOD SUGGESTIONS:

Being a light red with low tannins, this is a great red to match with delicate fish dishes as well as when serving vegetables as the main course.

For past featured grapes, click here.