Grape Variety
Picapoll
"pee-kah-POHL"
Wine Styles
Sparkling
Light White
Full White
Aromatic
Rosé
Light Red
Medium Red
Full Red
DessertAbout Picapoll
Origin
Languedoc, France
History
Picapoll, also known as Piquepoul or Picpoul, is an ancient grape variety with origins in the Languedoc region of southern France. The name 'Picapoll' translates to 'lip-stinger,' a reference to the grape's naturally high acidity. Historically, it was often blended with other varieties to produce vermouth and other fortified wines. In recent years, Picapoll has gained popularity as a single-varietal wine, especially in the Picpoul de Pinet appellation, where it produces crisp, seafood-friendly white wines.
Appearance
Small to medium-sized, light-skinned berries with a greenish-yellow hue.
Growing Traits
Picapoll is a late-budding and late-ripening variety that thrives in sandy, well-drained soils, particularly in coastal regions. It is susceptible to fungal diseases like powdery mildew, requiring careful vineyard management. The grape's high acidity makes it well-suited to warm climates, where it retains freshness despite the heat.
Wine Characteristics
Body
2/5
Sweetness
1/5
Tannin
1/5
Acidity
4/5
Alcohol
2/5
Light to medium-bodied with a crisp and refreshing profile, offering subtle complexity. Typically vinified dry, though it can exhibit ripe fruit characteristics. As a white grape variety, Picapoll has negligible tannin levels, resulting in a smooth mouthfeel. High acidity, providing vibrancy and enhancing its food-pairing versatility. Moderate alcohol content, generally around 12-13%, contributing to its balanced character.
Taste Profile
Green apple
Orange blossom
Lemon
Thyme
Saline
Picapoll wines are characterized by bright flavors of green apple and lemon, with floral notes of citrus blossom and hints of fresh thyme. A distinctive saline quality often emerges, reflecting the grape's coastal origins. The palate is typically dry, with high acidity and a refreshing finish.
Food Pairing
Picapoll's high acidity and citrus notes make it an excellent match for seafood dishes, particularly oysters, mussels, and grilled fish. It also pairs well with light salads, goat cheese, and Mediterranean cuisine, complementing flavors like olive oil, garlic, and fresh herbs.
Growing Regions
France
LanguedocRhône Valley
Spain
Catalonia
Notable Wines & Producers
Picpoul de Pinet
Domaine Félines Jourdan
La Cave de Pomerols
Domaine Delsol
Pla de Bages Picapoll
Abadal
Oller del Mas
Picapoll FAQ
Common questions about this grape variety
What is the origin of Picapoll?
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Languedoc, France
Is Picapoll wine full bodied?
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Picapoll has a body level of 2 out of 5. Which means that Picapoll is Moderate to Light bodied.
Is Picapoll wine dry or sweet?
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Picapoll has a dryness level of 1 out of 5. Which means that Picapoll is Dry.
Where is Picapoll wine from?
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Languedoc, France
Where is Picapoll grown?
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Picapoll is grown in France (Languedoc, Rhône Valley)Spain (Catalonia).
What is Picapoll like?
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Picapoll wines are characterized by bright flavors of green apple and lemon, with floral notes of citrus blossom and hints of fresh thyme. A distinctive saline quality often emerges, reflecting the grape's coastal origins. The palate is typically dry, with high acidity and a refreshing finish.
What does Picapoll pair with?
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Picapoll's high acidity and citrus notes make it an excellent match for seafood dishes, particularly oysters, mussels, and grilled fish. It also pairs well with light salads, goat cheese, and Mediterranean cuisine, complementing flavors like olive oil, garlic, and fresh herbs.
What does Picapoll taste like?
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Picapoll wines are characterized by bright flavors of green apple and lemon, with floral notes of citrus blossom and hints of fresh thyme. A distinctive saline quality often emerges, reflecting the grape's coastal origins. The palate is typically dry, with high acidity and a refreshing finish.
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