Wines Picpoul-de-Pinet Ormarine - Cuvée Estela - 2023

Ormarine’s Cuvée Estela 2023 hails from the Picpoul-de-Pinet AOC, situated along France’s Mediterranean coastline in the Languedoc region. Crafted from the Picpoul blanc grape, this wine exemplifies the varietal’s crisp, vibrant character. The 2023 vintage delivers a bright, pale straw hue, offering lively aromatics of lemon zest, white flowers and green apple. Picpoul is renowned for its naturally high acidity, refined by modern vinification techniques—often in stainless steel tanks—to preserve freshness and minerality. The terroir, characterised by limestone and clay soils, subtly imparts a saline note on the palate, evoking sea spray and oyster shell.

The Languedoc region enjoys a quintessential Mediterranean climate, boasting long, sun-baked days, mild winters and the regular influence of the maritime breeze. Picpoul-de-Pinet, in particular, is nestled between the Garrigue and the Étang de Thau lagoon, benefitting from humidity-modulating winds and moderate rainfall. The limestone soils ensure excellent drainage and nurture grapes capable of expressing freshness and salinity. Historically, Picpoul has a long-standing reputation as “the Muscadet of the South,” famously matching the local seafood dishes and reflecting the region’s convivial, sun-soaked lifestyle.

With its lively acidity and discreet saline backbone, Cuvée Estela 2023 proves an outstanding partner for seafood and shellfish. Classically, it shines alongside freshly shucked oysters, moules marinières, grilled langoustines or gambas à la plancha, echoing the flavours of the Mediterranean. It also makes a refreshing companion to lemony roast chicken, feta salads and soft cheeses such as chèvre. For a local pairing, opt for tielle sétoise, a savoury seafood pie from nearby Sète.

For optimal enjoyment, serve this Picpoul-de-Pinet well-chilled at 8-10°C. At this temperature, its citrusy freshness and saline minerality reach their full potential. Decanting is unnecessary; simply pour and enjoy this bright, invigorating white as an apéritif or alongside your chosen dishes.