Cultivated around the world, the 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 as well as renowned appellations like Chambolle-Musigny, Gevrey-Chambertin or even Nuits-Saint-Georges, it is nonetheless well present on all five continents. Thus, it is currently 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 antiquity, it is considered the father (or grandfather) of a multitude of other grape varieties such as Chardonnay, Gamay, Syrah and Aligoté.
Most certainly 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.
Most certainly 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. However, it was from the year 1395 that Pinot Noir began to truly shine almost exclusively in Burgundy.Indeed, it was precisely on this date that the Duke of Burgundy Philip II the Bold banned 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 across many other French regions. Thus, it is the most planted grape variety in Champagne (38% of the vineyard), where it helps produce delicious characterful sparkling wines 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, such as the Jura, Alsace , and 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, such as the Jura, Alsace , and 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 is 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 temperateclimates.Therefore, 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 fruity and floral such as cherry, raspberry, strawberry, or violet.
Conversely, if the Pinot Noir you are drinking comes from warmer and southern climates, as is often the case when it is not French, its aromatic profile will be warmer, more powerful, and may evoke blackberry or blackcurrant. Furthermore, while Pinot Noir usually has very fine and delicate tannins, they may appear more present in this type of climate.
Conversely, if the Pinot Noir you are drinking comes from warmer and southern climates, as is often the case when it is not French, its aromatic profile will be warmer, more powerful, and may evoke blackberry or blackcurrant. Furthermore, while Pinot Noir usually has very fine and delicate tannins, they may appear more present in this type of climate.
Of course, there are many possible nuances of aromatic profiles between these two extremes . However, 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 and offering light and fruity notes will be idealto drink within the first 3 to 5 years .On the contrary, a wineaged in oak barrels , from old vines from a quality terroircan be kept for 20 years or more ! It will really depend on each wine, which is why it is important to seek advice to be sure of making 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 withcharcuterie , 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 like 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 like 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 domains Barmès-Buecher and Mittnacht Frères , are a Burgundy enthusiast withDomaine du Cellier aux Moines (Givry) or Decelle & Fils , or a fan of the Loire Valley with the beautiful Sancerre from Fleuriet and Pascal & Nicolas Reverdy , we are sure you will find your happiness!
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
