Cultivated throughout the world, the Pinot noir is one of the most popular grape varieties among wine lovers, particularly for its ability to produce of the red wines of rare delicacy . If his simple name evokes to all the Burgundy as well as renowned names such as Chambolle-Musigny , Gevrey-Chambertin or even Nuits-Saint-Georges , this one is nonetheless well present on five continents. Thus, it is today the 6th most planted grape variety in France And THE 9th in the world .
But then, what are its origins? In which regions of France and the world is it present? What are its taste characteristics? What should you eat with a glass of Pinot Noir? If you want the answers to all these questions, this article is for you...follow the guide!
THE Origins and places of cultivation of Pinot Noir
Pinot Noir is a very old grape variety . Only a few generations separate them in fact wild vines present in the forests, even before domestication by man. Moreover, due to its antiquity, it is considered the father (or grandfather) of a multitude of other grape varieties such as the Chardonnay , THE Gamay , there Syrah Again Aligoté .
Most certainly originally from Burgundy , we find the first written mentions of Pinot noir from 1375 where it is then also called " Plant Fin ". However, it is proven that the Romans found plantations of it in Gaul upon their arrival and therefore cultivated it for many centuries before this date.
Most certainly originally from Burgundy , we find the first written mentions of Pinot noir from 1375 where it is then also called " Plant Fin ". However, it is proven that the Romans found plantations of it in Gaul upon their arrival and therefore cultivated it for many centuries before this date.
From the Middle Ages onwards, these are the monks who contributed to its development, particularly in the Burgundy and Champagne vineyards. However, it was from the year 1395 that Pinot Noir really began to shine almost exclusively in Burgundy. Indeed, it was precisely at this date that the Duke of Burgundy Philip II the Bold banned on his lands there culture of " vile and disloyal Gamay " for the benefit of Pinot Noir, renowned for its greater finesse and delicacy.
Since then, Pinot Noir has spread to many other regions. French. So this one is the most planted grape variety in Champagne (38% of the vineyard) , where it allows the production of delicious sparkling wines with character in the company of Pinot meunier and Chardonnay.
It is also found in the Valley of the Loire where it is the only red grape variety authorized in renowned appellations as Sancerre Or Menetou-Salon . Many other wine-growing areas also cultivate it, such as the Jura , of Alsace or even of the Savoy . Finally, although much rarer, it is also found in the vineyards of Languedoc-Roussillon or of Southwest .
It is also found in the Valley of the Loire where it is the only red grape variety authorized in renowned appellations as Sancerre Or Menetou-Salon . Many other wine-growing areas also cultivate it, such as the Jura , of Alsace or even of the Savoy . Finally, although much rarer, it is also found in the vineyards of Languedoc-Roussillon or of Southwest .
Of course, its influence is not limited to France ! So, we find it in Germany, Austria, Italy, the United States, South Africa and even New Zealand! In short, a real international success story!
Aromatic profile and storage of Pinot Noir
Pinot Noir is a grape variety that particularly likes cool climates and temperate . Therefore, this will generally express more delicacy and of aromatic nobility if it comes from regions like Burgundy, Jura or Loire. He will then offer to delicate aromas fruity and floral as there cherry, raspberry, strawberry or violet .
Conversely, if the Pinot Noir you are drinking comes from warmer, southern climates, as is often the case when it is not French, its aromatics will then be warmer, more powerful and may evoke there blackberry or blackcurrant . Furthermore, if Pinot Noir usually has very fine and delicate tannins , these will be able to appear more present in this type of climate.
Conversely, if the Pinot Noir you are drinking comes from warmer, southern climates, as is often the case when it is not French, its aromatics will then be warmer, more powerful and may evoke there blackberry or blackcurrant . Furthermore, if Pinot Noir usually has very fine and delicate tannins , these will be able to appear more present in this type of climate.
Of course, there exists between these two opposites many possible nuances of aromatic profiles . Nevertheless, you now know the main markers of this delicious grape variety in order to find your way during a tasting.
Finally, regarding there custody capacity Pinot noir , this will vary greatly depending on its terroir of origin, the quality of the vines or even the type of breeding that the wine has experienced. wine. Thus, a Pinot Noir aged in stainless steel vats and offering light and fruity notes will be ideal to drink within the first 3 to 5 years . On the contrary, a wine aged in oak barrels , from old vines from a quality terroir can be kept for 20 years or more ! It will therefore really depend on each wine and that is why it is important to seek advice in order to be sure of making the right choice.
What to eat with Pinot noir ?
The art of food and wine pairing reaches its peak with Pinot Noir. Its versatility and subtle structure make it an ideal partner for a variety of dishes, from delicate to more robust.
So, with a Pinot Noir with a light profile , agreements with cold cuts , of the fresh cheeses or even white meats (chicken, pork etc.) will work wonderfully.
On the contrary, a more robust Pinot Noir can ideally be paired with dishes and ingredients such as of red meat (duck breast, prime rib, lamb chops, etc.) or matured cheeses offering more character.
On the contrary, a more robust Pinot Noir can ideally be paired with dishes and ingredients such as of red meat (duck breast, prime rib, lamb chops, etc.) or matured cheeses offering more character.
Furthermore, Pinot Noir is a red wine with a delicate profile and few tannins, a service at a temperature between 14-16°C is ideal for revealing all its aromatic complexity while retaining its characteristic freshness.
Now you know all the key points to appreciate it at its peak!
What are the best Pinot Noirs? ?
Although it is impossible to give an exhaustive list of the best Pinot Noirs (this being above all a matter of personal taste), The Illuminated Cellar nevertheless offers you a selection of its finest wines and champagnes made from this grape variety. There is something for all tastes and budgets so don't hesitate and be curious ...we are sure you will find what you are looking for in this list!
- Alsace - Domain Barmes-Buecher - Pinot Noir Reserve
- Burgundy - Domain from Cellier to the Monks - Givry - The small Cellier enclosure
- Burgundy - Philippe Naddef Estate - Marsannay Les Genelières
- Burgundy - Domain Decelle & Sons - Savigny-Lès-Beaune red
- Burgundy - Domain Decelle & Sons - Beaune 1er Cru - Clos du roi
- Loire - Bernard Fleuriet & Sons Estate - Sancerre - Anthocyanin
- Southwest - Bouscassé Castle - Wine of France - Pinot noir
- Champagne - Pierre Paillard - The Grand Cru Bouzy Plots
There you have it, now that Pinot Noir has no more secrets for you, all you have to do is combine the practice to theory .
Enjoy your tasting and see you soon at The Illuminated Cellar !
