Mirande Picpoul de Pinet is made with 100% Piquepoul Blanc, an ancient grape variety, which has the sort of green-tinged iodine fruit and crisp acidity one would associate with Muscadet or Gros Plant, but with more vinosity. The nose opens with delightful aniseed spices, green fruit and touches of honey. The palate is savoury with Mirabelle plum, exotic fruits and touches of iodine, minerals and herbs.
DOMAINE DE MIRANDE, Castlenau de Gers
Joseph Albajan bought Domaine de la Mirande in 1988. The estate is located in the heart of the Picpoul appellation, not far from the Bassin de Thau, a salt-water lagoon dedicated to the cultivation of oysters and mussels. The vineyard is surrounded by the garrigue and the soils are a clay-limestone mix on south-facing terraces with the vines between 30-100 years old. Green harvesting and organic viticulture are part of the estate’s philosophy. After the passing of her father Joseph, Marie-Laure took the reins of the estate and is continuing the family tradition of producing gorgeous, thirst quenching Picpoul.