Cave de l’Ormarine, ‘Duc de Morny’ Picpoul de Pinet, 2025, Picpoul de Pinet (AOP)

'One-Liner'
A classic coastal Picpoul with ripe citrus, pear and subtle white pepper – crisp, savoury and finished with a deliciously salty mineral edge.

Tasting Note
Pale straw with bright green reflections, opening with lemon, citron and ripe pear alongside a gentle floral note and subtle white pepper. The palate has a little more breadth than its brisk reputation might suggest, with juicy citrus and white fruit held firmly in check by lively acidity. A distinctly savoury, saline character builds towards the finish, leaving the mouth clean, fresh and ready for another sip.

Country: France
Region: Languedoc-Roussillon
Sub-Region: Picpoul de Pinet AOP
Grape(s): 100% Piquepoul Blanc
ABV: 12%
Friendly: Vegan, Vegetarian, Sustainable

Awards & Critics' Scores
n/a

The Story
Cave de l’Ormarine is a historic growers’ cooperative based at Pinet, overlooking the Étang de Thau and the Mediterranean coast. Duc de Morny is selected from Piquepoul vines more than 15 years old, planted on stony clay and limestone soils around 40 metres above sea level. The grapes are harvested at night to protect their freshness, before a short period on the skins and cool fermentation without malolactic conversion. It is a style shaped as much by its coastal setting as by the grape itself – citrus-bright and wonderfully refreshing, but with enough ripe fruit, savoury depth and salty minerality to make it a natural partner for the seafood of the nearby Thau lagoon.

Perfect With... (click me for the recipe)
- Meat/fish: Grilled sardines with lemon and parsley
- Vegetarian: Roast cauliflower with tahini, lemon and toasted cumin
- Vegan: Pea, mint and lemon crostini