If you're going to drink white wine in Languedoc, then it has to be a Picpoul-de-Pinet. The production of the world famous Picpoul de Pinet white wine is centered around a few small villages close to the Bassin de Thau, that produces much of France's high class oysters and mussels. Quite simply the best Languedoc white wine.

The Picpoul de Pinet wine appellation is situated on a limestone plateau. The vineyards produce an outstandingly subtle white wine. In the age when powerful Chardonays are on the wane then Languedoc's Picpoul de Pinet white wines must surely come to prominence. The white wines are made from a single Picpoul grape variety and is a light acidic wine, with citrus fruit aromas. It is the perfect accompaniment to fresh Languedoc seafood.

Most Picpoul-de-Pinet wines are of a high standard, but my personal choice would include:

• Domaine St Martin de la Garrique
• Domaine Felines Jourdan
• Hugues Beaulieu

Picpoul de Pinet, Languedoc white wine

You can not miss the distinctive Picpoul de Pinet high-necked green bottles on the wine shelves. If you are in the Languedoc however, take a pleasant drive over to the sleepy village of Pinet and buy direct from the Co-Operative. The staff are always super helpful and you will see all the farmers filling up their plastic tubs in petrol pump style dispensers (lucky buggers!!).