Grown all over the world, Pinot Noir is one of the most appreciated grape varieties among wine enthusiasts, particularly for its ability to produce red wines of rare delicacy. While its simple name evokes to all the Burgundy region and renowned appellations such as Chambolle-Musigny, Gevrey-Chambertin, and Nuits-Saint-Georges, it is nonetheless well represented on all five continents. Today, it is the 6th most planted grape variety in France and the 9th worldwide.
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 cultivation areas of Pinot Noir
Pinot Noir is a very ancient grape variety. Only a few generations separate it indeed from the wild vines present in forests, even before domestication by humans.Moreover, due to its age, it is considered the father (or grandfather) of a multitude of other grape varieties such as Chardonnay, Gamay, Syrah and Aligoté.
Very likely originating from Burgundy, the first written mentions of Pinot Noir date back to 1375 where it was also called "Plant Fin". However, it is known that the Romans found plantations in Gaul upon their arrival and cultivated it for many centuries before this date.
Very likely originating from Burgundy, the first written mentions of Pinot Noir date back to 1375 where it was also called "Plant Fin". However, it is known that the Romans found plantations in Gaul upon their arrival and cultivated it for many centuries before this date.
From the Middle Ages, it was the monks who contributed to its development, particularly within the Burgundian and Champagne vineyards.Nevertheless, it was from the year 1395 that Pinot Noir began to truly shine almost exclusively in Burgundy. Indeed, it was precisely at this date that the Duke of Burgundy Philip II the Bold prohibited on his lands the cultivation of "the vile and disloyal Gamay" in favor of Pinot Noir, renowned for its greater finesse and delicacy.
Since then, Pinot Noir has spread to many other French regions. Thus, it is the most planted grape variety in Champagne (38% of the vineyard), where it helps produce delicious sparkling wines of character alongside Pinot Meunier and Chardonnay.
It is also found in the Loire Valley where it is the only red grape variety allowed in renowned appellations such as Sancerre or Menetou-Salon. Many other wine regions also cultivate it, like Jura, Alsace, or even Savoie. Finally, although much rarer, it is also found in the vineyards of Languedoc-Roussillon or Southwest.
It is also found in the Loire Valley where it is the only red grape variety allowed in renowned appellations such as Sancerre or Menetou-Salon. Many other wine regions also cultivate it, like Jura, Alsace, or even Savoie. Finally, although much rarer, it is also found in the vineyards of Languedoc-Roussillon or Southwest.
Of course, its influence is not limited to France! Thus, it can be found in Germany, Austria, Italy, the United States, South Africa, and even New Zealand! In short, a true international success story!
Aromatic profile and aging of Pinot Noir
Pinot Noir is a grape variety that particularly favors cool and temperate climates. Consequently, it will generally express more delicacy and aromatic nobility if it comes from regions like Burgundy, Jura, or Loire.It will then offer delicate aromas of fruits and flowers such as cherry, raspberry, strawberry, or violet.
On the other hand, if the Pinot Noir you are drinking comes from warmer, southern climates, as is often the case when it is not French, its aroma will be warmer, more powerful, and may evoke blackberry or blackcurrant. Furthermore, while Pinot Noir usually has very fine and delicate tannins, they may seem more present in this type of climate.
On the other hand, if the Pinot Noir you are drinking comes from warmer, southern climates, as is often the case when it is not French, its aroma will be warmer, more powerful, and may evoke blackberry or blackcurrant. Furthermore, while Pinot Noir usually has very fine and delicate tannins, they may seem more present in this type of climate.
Of course, there are many possible nuances of aromatic profiles between these two extremes.Nevertheless, you now know the main markers of this delicious grape variety to guide you during a tasting.
Finally, regarding the aging potential of Pinot Noir, it will vary greatly depending on its terroir of origin, the quality of the vines, or the type of aging the wine has undergone. Thus, a Pinot Noir aged in stainless steel tanks with light and fruity notes will be ideal to drink within the first 3 to 5 years. Conversely, a wine aged in oak barrels, from old vines from a quality terroir can be kept for 20 years or more! It will really depend on each wine, which is why it is important to seek advice to ensure you make the right choice.
What to eat with Pinot Noir?
The art of pairing food and wine reaches its peak with Pinot Noir. Its versatility and subtle structure make it an ideal partner for a variety of dishes, whether they are delicate or more robust.
Thus, with a light-profile Pinot Noir, pairings with charcuterie , fresh cheeses, or even white meats (chicken, pork, etc.) will work wonderfully.
Conversely, a more robust Pinot Noir can ideally pair with dishes and ingredients such as red meat (duck breast, rib of beef, lamb chops, etc.) or aged cheeses offering more character.
Conversely, a more robust Pinot Noir can ideally pair with dishes and ingredients such as red meat (duck breast, rib of beef, lamb chops, etc.) or aged cheeses offering more character.
Furthermore, as Pinot Noir is a red wine with a delicate profile and low tannins, serving it at a temperature between 14-16°C is ideal to reveal its full aromatic complexity while maintaining its characteristic freshness.
You now know all the key points to appreciate it at its peak!
What are the best Pinot Noirs?
Although it is very complex to provide an exhaustive list of the best Pinot Noirs (as it is primarily a matter of personal taste), La Cave Éclairée nevertheless offers you a selection of its finest wines and champagnes made from this grape variety.There is something for every taste and budget, so don't hesitate and be curious !
Whether you prefer Alsace with the Barmès-Buecher and Mittnacht Frères estates, are a Burgundy enthusiast with the Domaine du Cellier aux Moines (Givry) or Decelle & Fils, or a fan of the Loire Valley with the beautiful Sancerre from the Fleuriet and Pascal & Nicolas Reverdy estates, we are sure you will find what you are looking for!
Now that Pinot Noir holds no secrets for you, all that's left is to combine practice with theory.
Enjoy your tastings and see you soon at
