Picpoul de Pinet 2021 | Domaine des Lauriers

Wine Identification
The Domaine des Lauriers Picpoul de Pinet is a white wine from the 2021 vintage, produced by the Cabrol family, who have managed the estate since 1969. It carries the Appellation d'Origine Protégée (AOP) designation for Picpoul de Pinet and originates from Castelnau-de-Guers in the Hérault department of France’s Languedoc-Roussillon region.

Origin and Winemaking
The vineyards cover 45 hectares situated on distinctive soils known as calloutis marno-calcaire rouge, characterized by red marl calcareous gravels typical of the area surrounding the Étang de Thau lagoon. The wine is crafted exclusively from 100% Picpoul Blanc grapes. To preserve freshness, the harvest is conducted at night. In the cellar, pneumatic pressing takes place in a closed circuit. The juice undergoes cold settling at 8 °C for 24 hours under inert gas to prevent oxidation. Fermentation occurs in stainless steel tanks at a maximum temperature of 17 °C over three weeks. The wine sees no time in wood, has 13% alcohol by volume and is sealed with a screw cap.

Expected Profile
As a Picpoul de Pinet, this wine is defined by its grape variety’s natural high acidity and saline character, enhanced by the coastal proximity of the vineyards. The careful low-temperature vinification and inert gas protection suggest a crisp, aromatic profile with clean fruit expressions. The absence of oak aging ensures that primary varietal flavors remain unmasked and vibrant.

Overall Character
This vintage represents a straightforward, terroir-driven expression of Languedoc whites. It emphasizes precision and freshness over complexity or oxidative richness, offering a direct reflection of the calcareous gravel soils and the cool fermentation techniques employed by the winemakers.