Pineau des Charentes

Rich, velvety, and complex, Pineau des Charentes is western France’s celebrated fortified aperitif wine. Born in the heart of the Cognac region, this centuries-old tradition blends freshly pressed grape must with young Cognac eau-de-vie before resting in French oak barrels. The added Cognac halts fermentation, preserving the natural fruit sweetness of the grapes while imparting notes of dried apricot, honey, toasted nut, and subtle wood spice. From crisp, chilled Blanc expressions to vibrant Rosé and deeply aged Vieux releases, our collection offers an exquisite alternative to port and sherry. Discover hand-selected bottles perfect for pre-dinner aperitifs, gourmet cheese pairings, and modern craft cocktails.

About Pineau des Charentes

Pineau des Charentes is an officially protected French Appellation d'Origine Contrôlée (AOC) spirit produced exclusively in the Charente and Charente-Maritime departments. Because the grape must and Cognac used in its production must come from the very same vineyard estate, Pineau des Charentes reflects an extraordinary sense of terroir. For your home bar, it bridges the gap between wine and spirit—delivering rich fruit sweetness balanced by the warming elegance of aged Cognac.

Flavour & Style Guide

Understanding the core styles and age tiers of Pineau des Charentes makes choosing your bottle simple:

— Pineau Blanc: Crafted from white grape varieties like Ugni Blanc, Colombard, and Montils. Bright and luscious, featuring flavours of honeyed peach, dried apricot, citrus blossom, and fresh fig.

— Pineau Rosé & Rouge: Made from red grape varieties such as Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon. Packed with aromas of ripe cherry, red currant, raspberry jam, and subtle cinnamon spice.

— Vieux Pineau des Charentes: Barrel-aged in French oak for a minimum of 5 years. Develops a darker golden hue with complex notes of rancio, toasted hazelnut, prune, and vanilla.

— Très Vieux/Extra Vieux Pineau: Matured in oak for at least 10 years. Exceptionally smooth, velvety, and rich, offering deep layers of dark chocolate, candied orange peel, leather, and warm walnut.

How to Choose the Right Pineau des Charentes for You

— The Classic French Aperitif: Serve Pineau Blanc or Rosé well-chilled (between 8°C and 10°C) in a tulip glass as an elegant, low-proof drink before meals.

— For Gourmet Food Pairings: Pair an aged Pineau Blanc with blue cheese, foie gras, or melon slices, or serve a Pineau Rouge alongside dark chocolate desserts.

— For Elevated Spritzes & Cocktails: Combine 50ml of Pineau Blanc over ice with premium tonic water or sparkling wine and a lemon twist for a refreshing summer spritz.