Sempe Floc de Gascogne Rouge

Here are creative and unique serving suggestions for Sempe Floc de Gascogne Rouge:

* **"Floc & Fig" Aperitif Skewers:** Serve chilled (8-10°C) alongside small skewers featuring fresh figs wrapped in prosciutto a drizzle of balsamic glaze and a sprinkle of toasted pistachios. The Floc's fruitiness complements the fig while the prosciutto adds a savory counterpoint.

* **"Gascogne Sunset" Spritz:** Create a refreshing spritz by combining 2 parts chilled Floc de Gascogne Rouge with 1 part sparkling rosé and a splash of elderflower liqueur. Garnish with a thin orange wheel and a sprig of fresh thyme. Perfect for a late afternoon gathering.

* **Warm Spiced Floc (Winter Warmer):** Gently warm the Floc de Gascogne Rouge with a cinnamon stick a few star anise pods and a slice of orange peel. Serve in small heat-resistant glasses as a sophisticated alternative to mulled wine after a winter meal.

* **"Berry & Brie" Floc Pairing:** Offer small wedges of creamy Brie cheese topped with a single fresh raspberry or a tiny dollop of raspberry jam. The Floc's red fruit notes will sing with this combination especially when served slightly chilled.

* **Floc-Infused Poached Pears:** Poach firm pears in a mixture of Floc de Gascogne Rouge a touch of honey and a vanilla bean. Serve the cooled pears with a reduction of the poaching liquid and a dollop of crème fraîche for an elegant dessert.

* **"Midnight Floc" Dessert Shot:** Layer chilled Floc de Gascogne Rouge with a dark chocolate mousse and a crumble of shortbread in small shot glasses. A luxurious easy-to-serve dessert.

* **Savory Floc Glaze for Duck:** Reduce Floc de Gascogne Rouge with a touch of shallot and a hint of orange zest to create a vibrant fruity glaze for pan-seared duck breast. Serve the Floc slightly chilled alongside the dish.

* **"Floc & Fromage" Board Accent:** Instead of a full glass offer small chilled pours of Floc de Gascogne Rouge in delicate cordial glasses as a specific pairing for a blue cheese or a robust aged goat cheese on a cheese board.

* **Frozen Floc Granita:** Freeze Floc de Gascogne Rouge into a granita. Serve in small chilled bowls as a palate cleanser between courses or as a light refreshing dessert on a warm evening. Garnish with a few fresh mint leaves.

Here are detailed storage suggestions for Sempe Floc de Gascogne Rouge 17% 75 CL:

**Unopened Bottles:**

* **Optimal Temperature:** Store at a cool consistent temperature ideally between 10-15°C (50-59°F). Avoid significant temperature fluctuations as these can cause the cork to expand and contract potentially leading to oxidation. Do not store in a refrigerator long-term as the low humidity can dry out the cork.
* **Light Exposure:** Keep bottles away from direct sunlight and strong artificial light. UV rays can degrade the wine and accelerate aging leading to off-flavors and aromas. A dark environment such as a cellar cabinet or box is ideal.
* **Sealing:** Ensure the bottle's original seal (cork or screw cap) remains intact and undamaged. The seal is crucial for preventing oxygen ingress.
* **Bottle Position:** Store bottles horizontally if they have a natural cork. This keeps the cork in contact with the liquid preventing it from drying out and shrinking which could allow air to enter. If the bottle has a screw cap or synthetic cork vertical storage is acceptable though horizontal storage won't harm it.
* **Humidity:** Maintain a moderate humidity level ideally between 60-75%. Too low humidity can dry out natural corks while excessively high humidity can encourage mold growth on labels and capsules though it generally doesn't affect the liquid inside.
* **Special Storage Tips:** As a fortified wine (Floc de Gascogne is a *vin de liqueur*) it has a higher alcohol content than table wine which contributes to its stability. However it is not impervious to poor storage. Avoid storing near strong vibrations or odors as these can negatively impact the wine over time. While Floc de Gascogne can age it is generally best consumed within a few years of purchase to enjoy its fresh fruit characteristics.

**Opened Bottles:**

* **Optimal Temperature:** Once opened store the bottle in the refrigerator at approximately 4-7°C (39-45°F). The cooler temperature significantly slows down the oxidation process.
* **Light Exposure:** Continue to protect the opened bottle from light exposure even in the refrigerator.
* **Sealing:** Re-seal the bottle immediately and tightly after each pour. Use the original cork (inserted firmly) or a dedicated wine stopper. The goal is to minimize the wine's exposure to oxygen.
* **Bottle Position:** Store opened bottles upright in the refrigerator. This minimizes the surface area of the wine exposed to any air trapped in the bottle further reducing oxidation.
* **Humidity:** Humidity is less of a concern for opened bottles stored in the refrigerator for a short period.
* **Special Storage Tips:** Due to its higher alcohol content Floc de Gascogne will last longer than an opened table wine typically retaining its quality for 2-3 weeks in the refrigerator. For extended preservation consider using a vacuum pump to remove air from the bottle or an inert gas preserver (like argon) to displace the oxygen. These methods can extend the freshness for several weeks. Always check the aroma and taste before consuming after an extended period.