Raymond Ragnaud Vieux Pineau des Charentes (750ml)

Whilst popular in its local home of Cognac, this classic aperitif is less well-known around France and abroad. It's a quasi-fortified wine, made from a blend of partially-fermented grape juice and Cognac eau-de-vie. The blends are aged for various periods depending on the style desired. The youngest and most brightly coloured examples are a minimum of 18 months old. Vieux (old) Pineau des Charentes, like this, are oak-aged for at least 5 years, while 'Extra Vieux' (very old) examples remain in cask for a minimum of 10 years. The longer they're aged, the deeper and richer the colour and flavours become, leaning towards honey, vanilla, dried fruits and almonds. Older versions are delicious on their own, or typically drunk chilled as aperitifs. 17% Alc./Vol.