Pinot Noir

This is a smooth and silky wine that will have either a smoky, spicy, tea, tart fruit flavor or it will have a fruity earthy floral flavor depending on the style in which it was made. This is a great all around wine that goes with both lighter food such as seafood and equally as well with heavier meats and dishes.



Introduction

Pinot Noir is one of the most difficult wine varieties to grow in the world. It is also one of the oldest varieties of grapes which was used to produce wine. Recognized as a great wine grape worldwide the grape is grown in countries like Brazil, France, England, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Italy etc. However it is used mainly in champagnes and is also used in sparkling wines. The grapes generally grow in a dry climate where they are difficult to grow.

Pronunciation

Pee-know-na-wahr

History

Pinot Noir wine was first planted by the Gauls before the roman invasion. By 150 BC there were vineyards in France which had started growing this grape. By the 1st century AD its cultivation spread to other parts of Europe like Belgium, Germany etc. It was only during the 20th Century that the grape spread to other continents as well like America, where it was first grown in California in the year 1983.The Pinot Noir grape grown today varies from the grape grown in the early ages as the grape has undergone mutation which has made it more suitable for colder climate herby increasing its yield.

Viticulture

Pinot Noir prefers a cooler climate for cultivation as the grapes loose teir acidity and aroma when grown in warmer climates. However some of its inferior clones which are less resistant to diseases have given it a bad name in the market. As the grapes have a thin skin and ripen early they are prone to viticulture diseases. Moreover it becomes very difficult for the grapes to maintain their qualities in the cold winter season. But cultivaters stil grow this grape as it has a lovely aroma and makes a great wine which seduces the drinker with its qualities.

Regions

France

The grape is grown mostly in the Burgundy region of France. The region is famous for producing wines which are good in quality and have a great aroma . Pinot Noir was first grown in France in 100 AD. The wines grown here reach their peak in 15 to 20 years from vintage. The grape is also grown in other parts of France like Alscae, Sancerre, Champagne where it is used for various purposes like blending, making champagne, to make red and rose wines like Pinot Noir rouge.

United States Of America

California is the state which has largest area under cultivation of this grape. Oregon and Washington are also other areas famous for growing this grape. Michigan and New York states re famous for producing red wines. The grape was first planted in USA in the 19th century. New York state is also a suitable place for growing this grape as the cold climate helps in better grape cultivation.

New Zealand

When Pinot Noir was first grown in New Zealand it was not a hit among wine growers however with the passage of time and change in weather conditions the cultivations started showing better resuts. Thus the Pinot Noir grapes grown in New Zealand are considered one of the best in the world. The Canterbury region is famous for its red wine production. The long growing season and cold climate in the Martinborough region has made it a spot for Pinot Noir cultivation. The Pinot Noir grapes grown in New Zealand are early ripening and are complex in nature.