Are you looking for a light, spicy red wine full of character? Pineau d’Aunis is the grape variety you need! Still too little known, this iconic variety from the Loire region truly deserves closer attention.
Let’s discover it together and explore its history, characteristics, as well as the best food and wine pairings to showcase it. So, ready to embark on a sensory journey?
Summary
History of the Pineau d’Aunis grape variety
Pineau d’Aunis is a grape variety with a history that remains unclear. It is believed to have originated in the Saumur region, in the Loire Valley, and its name is thought to come from the Priory of Aunis, a small monastery located near Saumur that is said to have cultivated it since the Middle Ages. The grape variety is also sometimes called Chenin noir.
Particularly appreciated in the Middle Ages and at the beginning of the Renaissance, the variety was even said to be one of the favorites of the English king Henry III Plantagenet, who is believed to have imported it to England in 1246.
However, from the 17th century onwards, Pineau d’Aunis gradually lost ground to Cabernet Franc, the latter being more consistent in production and offering wines that were easier to store and transport.
In the 19th and 20th centuries, after the phylloxera crisis, our grape variety was still cultivated significantly in the Vendômois and Sarthe regions, but continued to be gradually replaced. It is estimated that at the time, it still covered more than 40,000 hectares, compared to only a few hundred today.
Long considered a low-quality grape variety intended for high yields, Pineau d’Aunis has nevertheless experienced a revival in popularity since the early 2000s thanks to many Loire Valley winemakers committed to preserving it and bringing out its best qualities.
Today, almost all plantations remain entirely located in the Loire region, particularly in the Coteaux du Vendômois, Touraine, and Anjou. The grape variety thrives there on diverse terroirs, ranging from clay to sand, and benefits from a temperate climate conducive to the slow ripening of its berries. There are currently about 450 hectares planted to date.
Côteaux du Vendômois, one of the terroirs of Pineau d'Aunis
Pineau d’Aunis wines
Pineau d’Aunis stands out for its lightness and its unique aromatic profile. It produces red wines with a pale color and a lively acidity as well as light, fine, and silky tannins. On the palate, red fruit aromas such as raspberry and wild strawberry combine with peppery and spicy notes.
This grape variety is particularly appreciated for its suppleness and freshness, making it an excellent choice for those who prefer light and easy-to-drink wines. The alcohol content in these wines is also generally quite low.
It should also be noted that Pineau d’Aunis can be used to produce spicy and indulgent rosés, particularly in the Coteaux-du-Vendômois. These wines are distinguished by a pale color with salmon highlights and an aromatic profile combining notes of redcurrant, strawberry, and a characteristic touch of white pepper. More rarely, there are also sparkling rosés made from this grape variety.
Finally, Pineau d’Aunis can also be included (often as a minority component) in Loire red blends based on Cabernet Franc, Côt (Malbec), or sometimes Gamay.
Pineau d'Aunis, a Loire Valley grape variety with spicy notes
Pairings with Pineau d’Aunis
As you will have understood, Pineau d’Aunis is mainly used to produce light, fruity and easy-drinking red wines. It is therefore only natural that it lends itself to many pairings indulgents.
Thus, the freshness and spicy aromas of these wines make them ideal companions for charcuterie boards, where dry sausage, cured ham, and pâté reveal all their indulgentise. white meats, such as roast chicken or stuffed turkey, will also pair very well with the light and peppery profile of Pineau d'Aunis-based wines.
Also, thanks to its low tannin content, Pineau can also accompany fatty fish such as grilled salmon or baked trout, bringing a lovely liveliness.
Cheeses and Asian cuisine can also find their place alongside this beautiful Loire grape variety. Whether it is a fragrant Thai curry, a slightly matured goat cheese, or a creamy Camembert, Pineau d’Aunis will rise to the occasion.
Finally, the lively character of Chenin Noir is also a refreshing choice for the aperitif.
Charcuterie: a natural pairing with Pineau d'Aunis
The best wines made from Pineau d’Aunis
Among the many quality Pineau d’Aunis producers in the Loire, La Cave Éclairée would like to highlight here the brilliant Delobel estate.
Located in Touraine, between Chenonceau and Chambord, this 13-hectare property is managed by Sandrine and Benjamin. They farm organically with Sauvignon Blanc, but also Gamay and... Pineau d’Aunis. The range is flawless and offers excellent value for money. The different Sauvignons are all successful and each has its own ambition, from aperitif to fine dining.
On the red side, the cuvée La Parenthèse is a light and indulgent Pineau d’Aunis, revealing very pleasant notes of white pepper as well as aromas of crisp red and black fruits (blackberry, cherry). A total pleasure that will surely convince you of the magnificent potential of this grape variety!
There you have it, we have reached the end of our wine journey! As you will have understood, Pineau d’Aunis is a grape variety that every Loire wine lover absolutely must discover, as it offers a tasty and original alternative to the region’s more classic reds. So, take the plunge and explore the quality selection of your favorite online wine merchant, you won’t be disappointed! Happy tasting!
