Pineau des Charentes
[pee-NOH day shah-RAHNT]
A FORTIFIED sweet APÉRITIF made in France's Cognac region by adding COGNAC to unfermented grape juice to halt any FERMENTATION activity. The result is sweet (12 to 15 percent RESIDUAL SUGAR) and potent (from 16 to 22 percent ALCOHOL). Pineau des Charentes can be found in white, ROSÉ, and red versions. Because it's made with cognac instead of a neutral alcoholic spirit, it's not classified as a VIN DOUX NATUREL but rather as a VIN DE LIQUEUR. Pineau des Charentes is similar to the RATAFIA from the CHAMPAGNE region and the FLOC DE GASCOGNE from the ARMAGNAC region, although it is better known than either. All are drunk chilled or on ice.
Related Links:
fortification,
apé,
Cognac,
fermentation
© Copyright Barron's Educational Services, Inc.
1995 based on THE WINE LOVER'S COMPANION,
by Ron Herbst and Sharon Tyler Herbst.
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