2011 Domaine Felines Jourdan, Picpoul de Pinet, Languedoc White, France.
It is strange and somewhat funny to write about such a summery wine in the cold rain of San Francisco, but such was the quality and seductive power of this little Picpoul, to bring me to a warm Southern France that I could not think of another wine to celebrate day. Domaine Felines Jourdan was new to me, imported by Return to Terroir here in the Bay Area, and I will certainly be keeping my eye out for them, as this beautiful dry 2011 Picpoul de Pinet is a charmer for sure with bright citrus, stone fruit and chalky mineral tones and a refreshing crisp finish that allows apricot and peach essences to linger, but leaves a nice saline and mouth watering feeling that begs for another sip. Picpoul has a whole has seen a great rise in quality and distinction in the last few years and I have loved the wines from Gaujal and Mas Dumas Gassac, but this Felines Jourdan might be my new favorite, it has the feel of a fine Basque white with lime and mineral, plus some roundness like a Chateauneuf blank, all in a very affordable package. This is a wonderful effort, and I can’t wait to have warm days to enjoy again soon.
($14 Est.) 92 Points, grapelive

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