Pineau des Charentes is the signature apéritif of France's Cognac region, and one of the most under-appreciated French fortified wines you can pour. It is made by blending fresh, unfermented grape must with young Cognac eau-de-vie, then ageing the blend in oak. Stopping fermentation this way locks in the natural sweetness and ripe fruit of the grape while Cognac gives it backbone, so the finished apéritif sits around 17 to 18% ABV with a smooth, lightly honeyed character.
Our Pineau des Charentes collection spans the three classic styles. Pineau Blanc (white) is bright and floral with notes of stone fruit, honey and citrus. Pineau Rosé (pink) leans into fresh red berries, while Pineau Rouge (red) is richer and rounder, built on Merlot and Cabernet for cherry and dried-fruit depth. Alongside the everyday expressions you will find aged and Très Vieux Pineau, where extended cask time builds rancio, nut and spice complexity closer to an aged Cognac.
The range brings together respected Charentais houses including Francois Voyer, Normandin Mercier and Grosperrin, plus certified organic Pineau from Mery Melrose. Serve it well chilled or over ice as an apéritif, and pair white Pineau with melon, foie gras or fresh goat's cheese, and red Pineau with chocolate desserts or blue cheese. It also works beautifully in cocktails in place of vermouth or sweet sherry.
Browse the full Pineau des Charentes range below and have it delivered across Australia.
