A delightful example from California of a grape normally found in the South of France, the Bonny Doon Vineyard Picpoul.
100% Picpoul from the Beeswax Vineyard in Arroyo Seco, Monterey County, Central Coast, California.
Sample submitted for review. The Bonny Doon Vineyard Picpoul has an SRP of $18 and is available for as low as $14. Only 1,650 cases produced. Ready to buy? Check your local retailers.
Picpoul, sometimes 'pique-poule', or lip-stinger, is an exceptionally beloved cépage of Southern France, lending balance to cuvées that might otherwise veer off into the direction of the fulsome. Whether lips are literally stung by a 'coup de picpoul' is open to debate, but lips are certainly known to smack at the ultra-savoriness of this unique grape variety.
11% Alcohol
Picpoul is a delightful variety from the Languedoc area of France that pairs beautifully with fish and seafood dishes. You don't see a lot of this grape grown here in the USA so we were quite excited to try this one out from the always reliable Bonny Doon Vineyard.
The 2018 Bonny Doon Vineyard Picpoul begins with lots of lemony goodness plus pear, apple and peach in the nice, clean, attractive aroma. As you'd expect it has lots of tart acidity when tasting. It also features plenty of mineral notes with a wonderful thick texture in the mouth and similar flavors to the nose. This is a really refreshing and delicious wine with a nice bit of complexity as well. It ends dry and long. Perfectly pleasing Picpoul!
Ready to buy? Check your local retailers.