What’s Pinot Noir all about?
The World Atlas of Wine says it’s “the most elusive grape,” but if you can grab a bottle at the local supermarket, what’s the big deal, it’s not that elusive?
Yes, you can find some tasty, fruity Pinot Noir from right across the world, but nothing else hits the same mysterious vibe as Pinot Noir when it’s done right.
In the perfect spots—like the Grand Cru vineyards in Burgundy—it makes mind blowing wines that are silky, sexy, fruity, bold, and super complex.
That’s why it’s one of the most popular red wines out there!
Pinot Noir wines usually have a lighter colour compared to other reds, with shades that can vary from a light ruby to a richer garnet, depending on where they're grown and how they're made. When it comes to aromas, these wines offer a fascinating mix of scents, featuring red fruits like cherries, raspberries, and strawberries, often combined with earthy hints, mushrooms, and herbs. As they age, they can take on even more complex smells, including leather and truffles.
In terms of flavour, Pinot Noir is generally dry and falls into the light to medium-bodied category. It has great acidity, smooth tannins, and alcohol content ranging from 12% to 15%. You can expect to taste a combination of cherry, raspberry, a wee bit of mushroom, along with some vanilla and baking spices if it's been aged in French oak. Just keep in mind that the taste of your Pinot Noir can vary based on the climate and the winemaker’s style—cooler climates tend to produce lighter and more delicate wines, while warmer regions create riper, fuller-bodied varieties with higher alcohol content but this is not set in stone.
To find a great Pinot Noir that suits your taste, you’ve got to understand a bit about this picky grape. First off, Pinot Noir is a bit of a 'drama queen.' It’s choosy about where it lives and grows and doesn’t usually get along with other grapes, it certainly doesn’t like sharing the spotlight with any other varieties. The only time it does is in Champagne, where it teams up with Chardonnay and Meunier to create some amazing bubbly like Dom Perignon, Billicart Salmon, and Bollinger. Plus, just like a true diva, Pinot Noir has a super thin skin - remind you of anyone?
Growing Pinot Noir grapes is both challenge and rewarding. The grapes delicate thin skin makes it vulnerable to sunburn and heat damage, necessitating meticulous work in the vineyard, to ensure the right balance of sunlight and shelter for these delicate grapes. This vulnerability, however, allows Pinot Noir to express and capture the essence of its surrounding environment—its climate, soil, and regional influences - its terroir.
Adding to this complexity, Pinot Noir grapes are notoriously finicky, they thrive in well-draining, slightly acidic soils and prefer cool climates with moderate temperatures. Growing Pinot Noir demands dedication, care and patience, which is why it is prized by winemakers and of course drinkers alike. When conditions align perfectly, the rewards are extraordinary, earning Pinot Noir the title of the "Holy Grail" of wines.
Globally, Pinot Noir is grown in various regions, each offering distinctive characteristics. Notable American regions include California and Oregon, while international contenders like Chile and New Zealand—particularly Central Otago—produce exceptional varieties. Germany, where it is known as Spätburgunder, also boasts unique Pinot Noir wines. Nevertheless, the crown jewel remains France's Burgundy region, producing Pinot Noirs with finesse and elegance.
The historical home of Pinot Noir, Burgundy, showcases nearly 100 distinct appellations, all stemming from a humble ridge called the Côte d'Or. This seemingly ordinary landscape serves as the foundation for some of the most exceptional wines in the world. The region's winemaking heritage dates back centuries, highlighting a long-standing tradition of quality and craftsmanship. Over time Burgundy’s vineyards have been meticulously tended, resulting in a diverse array of terroirs that contribute to the unique characteristics of their wines today.
Each appellation in Burgundy tells a story, reflecting the character of its soil, climate, and grapes, and has earned a reputation for producing some of the most sought-after and expensive bottles internationally.
Burgundy has continued as a historical treasure and a modern wonder. Its blend of tradition and innovation ensures that Burgundy will continue to enchant wine lovers for generations to come, reaffirming its place at the pinnacle of global viticulture.
When it comes to food pairings, Pinot noir is incredibly versatile and can complement a wide range of foods. Its moderate acidity and tannins make it an excellent match for roast chicken, grilled salmon, mushrooms, and a variety of cheeses. Floral notes also make it a natural pairing for dishes featuring pork, duck, or lamb. If you're looking for a vegetarian option, try Pinot noir with roasted vegetables, risotto, or a mushroom-based dish - all delicious.
So now we know that this diva grape, Pinot Noir, makes a complex and expressive red wine which has captivated wine drinkers for centuries. Whether you prefer a fruity and vibrant style from New Zealand or a more earthy and precise version from Burgundy, there is sure to be a Pinot noir from our range at The Crafty Vintner that will suit your taste preferences.
So next time you're looking for a wine that is both elegant and approachable, try reaching for a bottle of Pinot noir and enjoy the delicate flavours and aromas that make it truly the 'Queen of Grapes'.
Cheers!
