Piquepoul Noir

**Picpoul Noir** is a red-berried grape of southern France, the dark-skinned counterpart to the better-known white Piquepoul used in Picpoul de Pinet. It is a minor, traditional variety, permitted as a blending component in parts of the Southern Rhône. **In the glass** — it tends to produce pale, lightly coloured reds with modest tannin and fresh, red-fruited aromas. Its most notable trait, echoed in its name, is a lively, tangy acidity. **Where it grows** — it is a historic variety of the Rhône and wider Mediterranean south of France, though plantings today are small and it is rarely bottled on its own. **At the table** — its freshness suits lighter fare such as charcuterie and simple grilled dishes. **Cellaring** — best enjoyed young, as a fresh and easygoing wine rather than one for the cellar.

Wines

• Arcane l'Empereur — Xavier Vignon
• Château de Beaucastel — Château de Beaucastel
• Tavel Rosé — Château d'Aqueria