Pinot Noir

The Taste of Pinot Noir 

Depending on where the grape was grown and how it was produced the wine could be an everyday friendly fruit forward with bright acidity, to a cellar-worthy wine that could age for decades. Which is why pinot noir is loved and revered by wine connoisseurs and winemakers all over the world. Where many reds are strong-willed and robust, pinot noir takes on a gentler form, tantalising the palette with a lighter, fruit-forward flavour. Typically blessed with the juicy aromas of red cherries, plums, raspberries and blackberries as well as an earthy, oaky undertone, pinot noir has been known to convert even the most dedicated white wine lovers 

Popular regions for growing Pinot Noir 

The grapes thrive in cooler climates, regions such as Oregon and Sonoma Coast in the USA, Central Otago and Marlborough in New Zealand or high altitude regions in Chile or Italy have made astounding examples. But it is the Pinot Noir from Burgundy that catapults the varietal to superstar status, with some producers such as the legendary Domaine de La Romanee-Conti making some of the best (and one of the most expensive) wines in the world. Germany also produces Pinot Noir but under the name of Spätburgunder, and is the 3rd country with the most highly planted Pinot Noir after France and USA. 

Food and Pinot Noir Pairing  

As with many red wines, pinot noir pairs beautifully with food, and as it is a lighter variety it makes an excellent choice for red and white wine enthusiasts alike. Pinot Noir will compliments most meat dishes, from seafood (best served lightly chilled), poultry such as duck and chicken, to light meats such as cured ham and pork. Vegetarians and vegans will be thrilled to learn that this versatile variety is also the perfect complement to rich, meat-free dishes such as lentil curries, and dishes made with aubergine or mushrooms. 

Serving for Pinot Noir 

The best way to enjoy a pinot noir is to serve at a cellar temperature of around 15 degrees Celsius in a bowl wine glass. Choose a glass with a wider bell as this will allow all those unique and flavourful aromas to fully form, and will help to ensure every sip is as indulgent as the last.