Pineau des Charentes is what you get if you mature a type of Charentes wine along with Cognac eux de vie for a couple of years. Discovered, like many great drinks, by accident, it now has its own loyal following.

Chateau Montifaud Pineau des Charentes Blanc is a regional French aperitif made by Societe Puy Gaudin in the commune of Gemozac, in the Charente Maritime department, about 60km to the north of Bordeaux.

It is a lovely burnished gold colour. It has notes of fig, almond, prune, rancio, honey and spices on the nose. These aromas mingle with the flavours of grapes and cognac on the palate to give a smooth, round and lingering drink.

Serve it chilled or over ice as an aperitif, at room temperature, with your cheese at the end of a meal instead of port.