In case you’re nonetheless sleeping on Pineau des Charentes — basically younger wine blended with Cognac to fortify it — then it’s time to get up. Right here’s a brand new launch from Fanny Fougerat made out of ugni blanc grapes grown in Cognac and fortified with a brilliant, effusive brandy. The bottle is extra evocative of spirits, with squared-off shoulders and a thick base, however what’s inside evokes Sauternes greater than a spirit.
The assault is brilliant, fruity, and candy — white grape juice, lemon candies, and vanilla custard all in a swirl. Whereas lip-smacking with sweetness, there’s ample acidity that emerges quickly sufficient, balancing out any notes that may threaten to develop into cloying. On the end, complexity rises: Gentle florals, some vanilla, and a sultry, very understated earthiness. It’s beautiful stuff that’s exhausting to place down, so thoughts that abv lest you get into bother.
17% abv.
A / $39
Fanny Fougerat Pineau des Charentes Le Colibri Charmant Blanc
$39
