Picpoul

Picpoul

Type: White

Origin: Languedoc, Southern France

Body: Light - Medium

Tannins: N/A

Acidity: High

Food Pairings

Meat/Fish

Oysters

Moules Frites (Mussels with Fries)

Grilled Sea Bass

Lemon Herb Chicken

Sardines on Toast

Cheese

Chèvre

Feta

Halloumi

Fresh Mozzarella

Other

Tapenade with Crostini

Mediterranean Couscous

Fried Zucchini Blossoms

Tomato and Herb Salad

About Picpoul

Picpoul (also spelled Piquepoul, meaning “lip stinger” in Occitan) is a historic white grape variety from the Languedoc region of southern France. Known for its piercing acidity, citrus zing, and coastal salinity, Picpoul makes some of the best-value crisp whites on the market.

The most famous expression is Picpoul de Pinet, a white AOC located near the Mediterranean coast, often enjoyed with shellfish and seafood. This style offers a brilliant balance of fresh lime, green apple, and herbal notes, with a lean, thirst-quenching profile.

Though once considered an old-fashioned grape, Picpoul has seen a resurgence in popularity thanks to its vibrant character, affordability, and versatility.rinho.

Winemaking

Picpoul is usually fermented in stainless steel at low temperatures to preserve its acidity and citrus aromatics. It is almost never oaked, though a few producers are experimenting with lees aging or neutral barrel fermentation for added texture. Because of its naturally high acidity, careful vineyard management is key to avoiding overly tart wines. In hot southern climates, Picpoul retains freshness even when picked at full ripeness. Most styles are unoaked, dry, and meant to be drunk young—a perfect companion to coastal cuisine.

Key Growing Regions

Picpoul de Pinet AOC (Languedoc, France)

The benchmark for fresh, dry Picpoul—grown near Étang de Thau, famous for oyster pairings.

Rhône Valley (France)

Used in white Rhône blends for acidity and freshness.

Catalonia (Spain)

Known as Piquepoul Blanc, grown in limited amounts for aromatic white blends.

USA (California, Texas)

Small but growing interest among producers crafting Mediterranean-style whites.

Australia (McLaren Vale)

Emerging variety for hot climates, producing vibrant, saline Picpoul with tropical hints.

Fun Facts

1

“Picpoul” literally means “lip stinger,” a reference to its high acidity.

2

Picpoul was once used in Vermouth production due to its sharp, clean base.

3

Picpoul de Pinet is the only white wine AOC in Languedoc dedicated to a single varietal.

4

The grape comes in three colors: Picpoul Blanc (white), Noir (red), and Gris (gray), though only the white is common today.

5

Picpoul is often called the “Muscadet of the South” for its affinity with seafood.

Winedrops

RESOURCES

Quick Facts

Appearance

Body

Acidity

Alcohol

Aging