Pinot Noir Wines (1.248)

Pinot Noir, also known as Pinot Noir, is one of the noblest and oldest grape varieties in the world. It is considered the diva among red wine grapes - demanding in cultivation, but incomparable in its results. Pinot Noir is characterized by its complexity and elegance. It can offer a broad spectrum of aromas from fruity to earthy. We provide a comprehensive overview of the grape variety here. From its fascinating history and origin to its preferred growing regions and conditions. Right through to recommendations on how best to enjoy it.

History and origin

Pinot Noir has a long and venerable history dating back to the 1st century. Originally, the grape variety comes from the Burgundy region in France. Today, it is closely linked to the history of viticulture in Europe. The name "Pinot" is derived from the French word for "pine cone". This refers to the shape of the grape clusters. Noir, the French word for "black", describes the dark color of the berries. Despite its historical roots in France, Pinot Noir has spread worldwide. Today, it is cultivated in numerous growing regions.

Genealogy and a hodgepodge of names: from Pinot Noir to Pinot Noir

The genealogy of Pinot Noir has not yet been sufficiently established. According to recent analyses, the red wine is descended from a wild vine. Originally apparently only native to Burgundy, the Romans cultivated it over 2000 years ago. Outside Burgundy, it can now be found in the Loire Valley, Alsace and Languedoc. In Champagne, it is also the best of the two authorized red wine varieties.

In this country, the variety has been planted in the Rheingau since the 13th century. Today, it occupies a vineyard area of around 12,000 hectares.

Like many wines, Pinot Noir has other names besides Pinot Noir. This hodgepodge now includes 400 synonyms. The most well-known of these are Morillon Noir (old French name), Blauer Burgunder, Blauburgunder, Blauer Spätburgunder (Austria), Clävner, Klävner, Klebrot (Switzerland), Pignola (Italy) and Pinot Negro (Argentina).

From the vineyard to the wine glass: The art of Pinot Noir - growing regions, terroir and the secrets of its aromas

Growing regions

Pinot Noir thrives best in cooler climates where the grapes can ripen slowly and evenly. The best-known growing regions include

• Burgundy, France: The home of Pinot Noir. Here, the wines produce an incomparable depth and complexity.
• Germany: Known for its Pinot Noir, especially in regions such as Baden and the Palatinate.
• USA: California, Oregon and Washington State are known for their high-quality Pinot Noir wines.
• New Zealand: The Central Otago and Marlborough regions in particular have made a name for themselves.
• Australia: Cool regions such as Yarra Valley and Tasmania produce excellent Pinot Noirs.

Climatic conditions and soil composition

Pinot Noir prefers a cool to temperate climate, which allows it to ripen slowly and evenly. Conditions that are too warm can lead to overripe grapes that lose complexity and acidity. The composition of the soil also plays a decisive role. Limestone soils, such as those found in Burgundy, are ideal. However, loamy and gravelly soils can also produce excellent results. Pinot Noir is a demanding vine that requires a lot of attention to develop its full potential.

Cultivation and care

The cultivation of Pinot Noir requires special care and attention. The vine is susceptible to a variety of diseases and pests, including mildew and gray mold. This is partly due to the thin skin of the grapes, which makes them more sensitive to moisture and damage. Another factor that makes cultivation more difficult is the tendency of Pinot Noir to ripen unevenly, known as "Millerandage". Despite these challenges, winemakers around the world are willing to make the effort, motivated by the potential to produce exceptional wines.

Terroir influence

The influence of terroir on Pinot Noir cannot be overemphasized. The specific climate, soil and location of a vineyard can significantly shape the character of a Pinot Noir wine. In cooler climates, Pinot Noir tends to produce wines with higher acidity and more delicate fruit notes. While warmer regions often result in fuller, richer wines. The Burgundian limestone soil and unique microclimate of the region is often considered ideal for Pinot Noir. It achieves the perfect balance between fruitiness and acidity, complexity and elegance.

Ageing and aromas

Pinot Noir wines are known for their elegance and complexity. A wide range of styles can be found in the ageing process. From light, fruity varieties to rich, complex wines with a long ageing potential. Typical aromas include cherry, raspberry and strawberry in younger wines, complemented by notes of undergrowth, mushrooms and spices in more mature examples. Ageing in oak barrels can add additional nuances of vanilla, tobacco and coffee.

The Pinot Noir taste is full-bodied and velvety. It also has a fruity aroma and hints of almonds. A typical Pinot Noir can be recognized by its slightly sweet aroma of cherry, blackberry, strawberry, plum or blackcurrant. More mature Pinot Noir can also have earthy notes, while wines from the barrique can have hints of vanilla and cinnamon. Traditionally, PN is not color-intensive, mild, low in tannins, and rather reddish-red in color. Pinot Noir in a strong red color, with more tannins, less acidity and short ageing in oak barrels also reflect the spirit of the times. Primarily vinified as a dry red wine, there are also semi-dry Pinot Noir and Pinot Noir rosé wines. The grape variety is also suitable for the production of refreshing sparkling wine. In France, Pinot Noir is used as a blending partner for Champagne production, for example.

Top quality from ambitious winegrowers

The king of wines is demanding. Its early ripening, thin-skinned berries are sensitive to high temperatures, drought, wind and rot. They thrive best in a temperate climate, on calcareous soils interspersed with marl or clay. The Côte-d'Or provides the perfect conditions for Pinot Noir. This is why the best French red wine made from the grape comes from precisely this region. German red wine is also produced in top quality. Baden, the Ahr, the Rheingau and the Palatinate are the most important German growing regions for Pinot Noir. Here, ambitious winegrowers dedicate themselves to producing dense, extract-rich wines aged in barriques. Products from the 2015 vintage in particular make the hearts of wine connoisseurs beat faster.

Pinot Noir wines: enjoy light or strong and fruity or sparkling

Thanks to its diversity, Pinot Noir goes well with a wide range of dishes. The classic combinations include:

• Roast poultry or lamb
• Mushroom dishes
• Dishes with earthy flavors, such as truffles or beet
• Mild to medium-strong cheeses

Pinot Noir can also be a surprisingly good accompaniment to fish dishes, especially salmon or tuna.

Pinot Noir red wines are served chilled at 16 to 18 °C. Quail, pigeon, hare and rabbit are fantastic combinations with lighter Pinot Noirs. Stronger versions of the wine are an excellent accompaniment to meat dishes with game, duck or pheasant. A briefly roasted fillet of beef also goes well with Pinot Noir.

Lighter Pinot Noirs have a shelf life of up to 2 years. Higher quality wines can be stored in a cool, dry and dark place for up to 10 years. Pinot Noir rosés taste excellent at a drinking temperature of 8 °C. If you like it fruity, you should enjoy this wine within the first 2 years after the harvest. Fullness and maturity await the wine lover after up to 5 years.

Pinot Noir rosés harmonize well with starters and white meat. In Auslese quality, they can even be served as an aperitif. Pinot Noir sparkling wines are also suitable. Consumed at 7 °C, they offer sparkling drinking pleasure. The delicate sparkling wine can be aged for up to 3 years if stored properly.

Investment and collection

Due to its popularity and the challenges involved in growing it, Pinot Noir can be one of the more expensive types of wine. Especially when it comes to top wines from renowned growing regions. For collectors and investors, certain vintages and producers from Burgundy represent a valuable investment. Their value can increase over time. However, there are also many Pinot Noir wines outside Burgundy that offer the potential for positive value growth.

Fun facts and special features

• Variety of clones: Pinot Noir has one of the highest numbers of clone variants among the wine varieties. This contributes to an impressive diversity of wine styles.
• Historical fame: Pinot Noir is one of the few grape varieties to be mentioned by name in literary works from the Middle Ages.
• Challenges in cultivation: Pinot Noir has a thin skin and is prone to various vine diseases. It is therefore considered one of the most difficult grape varieties in viticulture.

Conclusion

Pinot Noir is a grape variety with deep historical roots and a rich palette of expressions. Its ability to reflect the terroir in which it is grown makes every Pinot Noir wine a unique experience. Although demanding in cultivation and care, the reward is a wine of exceptional elegance and complexity. A wine that delights wine lovers all over the world.

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Buy Pinot Noir online at Vinello

Vinello has a good connection to Pinot Noir - the king of wines. This is why Pinot Noir is presented in all its facets in the online wine store. Buy the royal wine from us. Individually or as discounted wine packages. And enjoy a large selection, secure shopping, fast shipping and delivery. Plus purchase on account and many other payment options.

Pinot Noir top sellers at VINELLO

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