We had the Pays D’Erpigny in our February 17 pack, and this is the base for this beer that is aged in French Sauternes barrels for 8 months.
Alvinne last created Cuvee D’Erpigny in 2012, when they made Cuvee D’Erpigny Monbazillac. After this use, they were not able to find any suitable barrels for the barrel-aging process. In 2016, three 300 litre sauternes barrels were sourced and it was time to reintroduce Cuvee D’Erpigny.
In case you haven’t had sauternes, it is a sweet white desert style wine made from Semillon, Sauvignon Blanc and Muscadelle grapes that have been affected by the Bortrytis disease known as ‘Noble Rot’.
The barrel aging adds a little extra sweetness to the big malty body, as well as a slight vinegar acidity with the sweet dessert wine character in the background. And the beer has picked up a touch of extra alcohol.
It’s a big bold sipper, so let it warm and notice the evolution of the beer as it progresses. Don’t be driving anywhere after this one though!
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