Meet the Harvest Headliners: Purlieu

1. Why did Purlieu decide to participate in this event?

We love our friends and colleagues at the Destin Charity Wine Auction. They are devoted to supporting the local community by making a real impact with the funds raised at the auction. We are participating in the upcoming Harvest event because we believe in giving back to local communities and this event is in focus with our giving philosophy. Plus, DCWAF knows how to throw a party, so it is a really fun week! 

2. What makes Purlieu Wines special?

Our winemaker, Julien Fayard, is the heart and soul behind Purlieu. As acting General Manager, he has built and cultivated the vineyard relationships from day one, expanding the portfolio to include some of the most sought after vineyards including To Kalon, Georges III and Platt Vineyards. 

3. What are some of your favorite Purlieu pairings with steak and seafood?

The Purlieu Platt Vineyard Chardonnay pairs very well with seafood! The wine’s bright acidity rises to meet the focused fruit and offers a Chablis- like weight and energy that sustains a lengthy and refreshing finish. 

With steak, you always win with Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon. One favorite is a 100% cabernet sauvignon from our namesake vineyard, the Teucer Vineyard. It offers a rich structure combined with Coombsville fruit which is dark, opulent and seductive.

4. What is one thing everyone should know about the winery?

Our sister label, Le Pich, is named for a pair of eagles that lived near the vineyard and would be spotted flying over the vines. Le Pich is a Wappo Native American term for The Eagle. 

5. What do you hear most often when people try your wines for the first time?

“Where can I buy locally?” If we are in your market, we will point you in the right direction to your local wine shop. If not, chances are, we can ship to you directly. 

6. What is the best part of being in the wine-making business?

We get to meet the most amazing people. Sharing wine with folks and watching them resonate with what we produce keeps us going on those long harvest days. Wine brings people together and it’s how we choose to celebrate milestones and major events. It doesn’t get better than that! 

7. Tell us about the Purlieu wine-making process. 

We source grapes from the best vineyard sites available and that is half the battle. Since wine is made in the vineyard, our job in the cellar is to have minimal impact on the fruit while allowing it to express the microclimate that makes each vineyard unique. Most of our single vineyard wines (currently we have 7) are less than 250 cases, so each vintage is quite special. For our cabernet program, we barrel age in 100% French Oak for 20-22 months. 

Published on Thursday, July 22, 2021