Pineau Mauxion Lot 85 Selected by Passion for Whisky 

Yes indeed, Passion for Whisky has launched its own Pineau des Charentes. This special fortified wine from the cognac region was made from the 1985 harvest. 

Pineau des Charentes

Pineau des Charentes, often simply called ‘Pineau’, is a French fortified wine from the Charente region in western France. It is made by mixing fresh grape juice (must) with Cognac spirit, a type of brandy produced in the same region. This mixture is then aged in oak barrels, which gives Pineau its unique flavour profile.

Tasting note

Colour

This Pineau des Charentes has a deep amber colour with golden and copper reflections, reflecting decades of aging in oak barrels. The intensity of the colour already gives a taste of the wine's richness and concentration.

Nose

Complex and refined aromas immediately emerge on the nose. The first impression is sweet and deep, with notes of dried fruits such as apricot and peach. This is followed by secondary aromas of figs, dates, honey, caramel and vanilla, all subtly intertwined with hints of almonds and walnuts. 

Taste

On the palate, this Pineau offers a wonderful interplay of sweetness and freshness. Flavours of dried fruits - figs, apricots and dates - are intensely present, complemented by notes of chestnut honey.  The long ageing has also developed complex tertiary flavours, such as some leather, and oak, which give the pineau great depth. The acids are still lively, providing a nice balance and keeping the sweetness in check. The structure is full and velvety, almost oily, with a long finish in which subtle spices and orange zest linger for a long time.

Finish

The finish is exceptionally long, rich and warming, with lingering hints of dried fruits, candied orange peel and an elegant touch of oak.

Conclusion

This 1985 Pineau des Charentes is a perfect example of how prolonged ageing can enhance a wine's depth and complexity. A real treat for lovers of aged fortified wines, it offers a wonderful balance between sweetness, acidity and complexity. Ideal to enjoy slowly, possibly alongside a dessert with dried fruits or nuts, or as a finale after a rich meal.

Mauxion Cognac

The origins of the Mauxion family date back to 1575 when Pierre Mauxion was born in the village of Houlette. Today, after 13 generations, the estate is still home to the Mauxion family. Antoine Mauxion was the first of the family to produce eaux-de-vie in 1743 and ten generations have since followed in his footsteps. Today, the house of Mauxion Selection continues to embrace original traditions with regard to tending the vineyard and producing high-quality eaux-de-vie.

All Cognac produced by Mauxion Selection comes from the prestigious terroirs of Grande Champagne, Petite Champagne, Borderies and Fins Bois. To preserve the flavour of their eaux-de-vie, Mauxion Selection Cognac is bottled at cask strength without blending or reduction, allowing the eaux-de-vie to develop with exceptional complexity and depth. While the careful selection process means quantity is limited, it guarantees a Cognac of unparalleled quality, every time.