What is Pinot Noir?

Pinot Noir is a red grape variety of French origin, renowned for producing elegant, refined, and complex wines. Primarily grown in Burgundy, it is also cultivated in Alsace, Champagne, and in many vineyards around the world.

Pinot Noir is one of the oldest grape varieties still grown today. Its name comes from the shape of its clusters, which resemble a pinecone.

Unlike more robust grape varieties such as Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot, it is particularly sensitive to weather conditions. It requires meticulous care both in the vineyard and in the winery, which explains its reputation as a demanding grape variety.

Why is Pinot Noir considered one of the greatest red grape varieties?

Pinot Noir is prized for its exceptional ability to reflect its terroir. Two plots located just a few hundred meters apart can produce completely different wines. This grape variety generally offers:

• a great deal of finesse;
• a lovely freshness;
• silky tannins;
• excellent aging potential;
• a great aromatic complexity.

It is this precision that makes it the iconic grape variety of Burgundy's greatest wines.

What are the aromas of Pinot Noir?

Pinot Noir primarily develops aromas of red fruits, to which more complex notes are added as it ages.

Depending on its origin and age, these include, in particular:

In his youth

• cherry
• sour cherry
• raspberry
• wild strawberry
• red currant
• violet

After a few years

• undergrowth
• mushroom
• leather
• fallen leaves
• truffle
• licorice
• mild spices

Its aromatic profile evolves more than that of many other grape varieties.

Where is Pinot Noir grown?

Pinot Noir is grown in many wine-producing regions, but some are particularly well-suited to it because of their temperate climate.

The main regions are:

• Burgundy
• Alsace
• Champagne
• Germany
• Switzerland
• Oregon
• New Zealand
• Australia
• California
• Chile

Why is Burgundy the global benchmark for Pinot Noir?

Burgundy is considered the historic birthplace of Pinot Noir. The limestone soils, cool climates, and the concept of terroir combine to produce wines of exceptional precision. The most renowned appellations include:

• Gevrey-Chambertin
• Chambolle-Musigny
• Vosne-Romanée
• Nuits-Saint-Georges
• Volnay
• Pommard

Some vintages are among the most sought-after wines in the world.

Is Alsace Pinot Noir different?

Pinot Noirsfrom Alsace are generally more approachable and enjoyable when young than their Burgundian counterparts.

For several years now, Alsatian winemakers have also been producing age-worthy wines, aged in barrels, which are gaining in depth and complexity.

They often offer:

• more fruit;
• a rounder texture;
• a lovely freshness;
• great value for the money.

What does Pinot Noir taste like?

Pinot Noir produces wines that are elegant rather than powerful. On the palate, they typically feature:

• a flexible attack;
• a refreshing acidity;
• delicate tannins;
• A long and challenging final.

Contrary to popular belief, a pale-colored wine can be extremely complex.

What dishes go well with Pinot Noir?

Thanks to its balance, Pinot Noir pairs well with many dishes. The best pairings are:

• roast poultry;
• duck breast;
• mushroom risotto;
• grilled salmon;
• calf;
• Burgundian cuisine;
• soft cheeses.

Older vintages pair particularly well with game or mushrooms.

Is Pinot Noir used to make Champagne?

Pinot Noir is one of the three grape varieties authorized in Champagne. It contributes:

• of the structure;
• power;
• in length.

Some vintages are made exclusively from Pinot Noir: these are the famous " Blancs de Noirs."

How do you choose a good Pinot Noir?

The best Pinot Noir depends, above all, on your personal taste.

Choose:

• a Burgundy Pinot Noir if you're looking for finesse and complexity;
• an Alsace Pinot Noir for a fruitier style;
• a foreign Pinot Noir if you prefer fuller-bodied wines.

Age also plays an important role:

• Under 5 years old: plenty of berries;
• 5 to 10 years: more spice and forest floor notes;
• More than 10 years: highly complex aromas.

Discover our entire selection of red wines.

What are the best Pinot Noir wines?

There is no single "best" Pinot Noir. The best wines are those that fully express their terroir.

At Les Grappes, we select wineries that tend their vineyards with precision to produce authentic wines that reflect their region and vintage.

FAQ

Is Pinot Noir a grape variety?

Yes. Pinot Noir is a red grape variety native to Burgundy.

Is Pinot Noir a light wine?

It generally produces wines that are more refined than Merlot or Cabernet Sauvignon, without lacking in complexity.

What is the difference between Pinot Noir and Merlot?

Merlot is rounder and more full-bodied. Pinot Noir emphasizes finesse, red fruit, and freshness.

What is the ideal serving temperature for a Pinot Noir?

, between 14 and 16 °C.

Can Pinot Noir be aged for a long time?

Yes. The best Pinot Noirs from Burgundy can be cellared for several decades.

What kind of cheese goes well with Pinot Noir?

Brie, Reblochon, Saint-Nectaire, and Chaource are all excellent choices.

Why is Pinot Noir often more expensive?

Because it is a difficult grape variety to grow, often yielding low harvests, and because it is highly sought after, particularly in Burgundy.

What color is Pinot Noir?

Pinot Noir produces wines with a ruby color, often lighter than that of other red grape varieties.