COLOUR
White
TYPE
Fortified
VINTAGE
2021
GRAPE
Muscat d'Alexandrie, Muscat Petits Grains
PRODUCER
Domaine Piquemal
REGION
Languedoc-Roussillon
CHARACTERISTICS
Body
Medium - Full
Sweetness
Sweet
Acidity
Medium - Low
Finish
Medium - Long
Intensity
Mid - Pronounced
AROMAS & FLAVOURS
ABOUT THIS WINE
Domaine Piquemal Les Larmes d'Hélios is a Vin Doux Naturel from the Languedoc-Roussillon region, crafted from Muscat d'Alexandrie and Muscat Petits Grains. The wine's name, 'The Tears of Helios,' evokes the sun's influence on the grapes. Domaine Piquemal is a fourth-generation family estate, currently managed by Marie-Pierre Piquemal, who has been recognized for her winemaking. The estate is situated in Roussillon, a region known for its suitability for aromatic grape varietals. The 2021 vintage received a star from the Guide Hachette des Vins.
ALCOHOL
15.5%
AVG. PRICE
€23
STYLE
Classic
SULPHITES
NO
When to drink
Now or Later
Ideal temperature
8-10°C
INTERESTING FACTS
Fact 01
The name 'Les Larmes d'Hélios' translates to 'The Tears of Helios,' referencing the sun god.
Fact 02
This wine is a Vin Doux Naturel, a fortified sweet wine style.
Fact 03
Domaine Piquemal is a fourth-generation family estate.
Fact 04
The winemaker, Marie-Pierre Piquemal, was named Winemaker of the Year.
FOOD PAIRING
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WINE MAKING PROCESS
Domaine Piquemal Les Larmes d'Hélios is produced as a Vin Doux Naturel from Muscat d'Alexandrie and Muscat Petits Grains. The grapes are cultivated on a 48-hectare estate in Roussillon, with vines averaging 35 years old, grown on clay-limestone and schist soils. Farming practices include environmental respect, regular plowing, short pruning, and green harvesting to manage yields, with the estate holding the HVE label. Fermentation takes place in temperature-controlled tanks. The process of fortification with grape spirit during fermentation halts its activity, preserving residual sugar and natural sweetness. Aging details for the 2021 vintage are not specified, though demi-muid aging has been used for other vintages of this wine.
