Picpoul is widely grown in the South of France, and the grape and wine are now getting considerable attention from some of the Rhône Ranger folks in the USA. Roughly translated as “lip stinger,” Picpoul is definitely lively and loaded with zippy acidity. Ornezon is produced by the Vignerons de Flornesac, and its 2020 is medium bodied and delivers fresh citrus, green apple flavors with a touch of minerality coming through in the finish. Picpoul de Pinet became an official AOC in 2013 and is widely exported, with over 50% reaching the UK. It asks to be paired with oysters, mussels, and other fresh, tasty things from the sea.
Ornezon, Picpoul de Pinet (Languedoc, Franc) 2020
By Norm Roby