Our wine list features over 170 exquisite selections, each offering unique regional, varietal, and producer characteristics. This means you can savour some of the world’s finest wines right here in Cornwall. To help you navigate our extensive collection, we’ve created the ‘Penventon’s Pick’ series, spotlighting some of our standout, unusual or popular wines for you to try. First up is the intriguing Piquepoul Noir from Villa Blanche…
If you’re a fan of the popular white Piquepoul, it’s time to meet its rarer red sibling: Piquepoul Noir. This unique wine, made from 100% Piquepoul Noir grapes, is a hidden gem from the Languedoc region that is sure to captivate your palate.
A Unique Languedoc Heritage
Piquepoul Noir is an original Languedoc grape variety, renowned for its distinctive garnet red hue and enticing aromas. Expect spicy notes of redcurrant and pomegranate, combined with delightful red fruit and citrus flavours. The wine’s fine tannins add structure, making it deliciously easy to drink.
Our First Vintage
We are proud to introduce our first vintage of Piquepoul Noir, part of the Villa Blanche Cépages Anciens range. This collection is dedicated to showcasing the rich heritage of Languedoc’s winemaking traditions. Piquepoul Noir, also known as Picpoul Noir or Picapoll Negro in Spain, is a rare black-skinned variant of the Picpoul family. Nearly all of these vines are found in southern France, with a few scattered in Spain.
Expert Production and Aging
Crafted with meticulous care by Domaine Calmel & Joseph, the grapes for our Piquepoul Noir are destemmed and sorted before being fermented at around 25°C. The fermentation process includes 10 minutes of pumping over per day, and the cap is moistened daily at the end of maceration. Vatting lasts 10 days, followed by malolactic fermentation after cold settling in cement tanks. This careful process enhances the wine’s unique flavours and character.
Domaine Calmel & Joseph
Domaine Calmel & Joseph, the esteemed producer of this wine, has a rich history dating back to 1577. Originally known by various names, including Borde Neuve and La Madone, this former farmstead embodies the historical legacy and tradition of the Languedoc region. The domain is committed to sustainable practices, and our Piquepoul Noir is proudly vegan.
Savour the Experience
Join us in celebrating this distinctive wine and savour the flavours of Languedoc’s wine heritage. Whether you’re a seasoned wine enthusiast or a curious newcomer, Piquepoul Noir offers a unique and enjoyable experience that highlights the rich tradition and expertise of its origins.
Raise a glass to the rare and delightful Piquepoul Noir, and enjoy a sip of Languedoc’s vinous history!
Pricing:
Bottle: £30
250ml: £10.50
175ml: £7.50
125ml: £5.50
Jess is the Marketing Manager at Penventon Park Hotel. Though born and bred in Cornwall she is ironically not a fan of the beach, rather opting for garden and woodland walks with her dog, Murphy, watching horror films and listening to 70s rock and 80s disco. Can often be seen with a glass of Moscato, German Riesling, Bloody Mary or a Spicy Marg in hand.
