Pinot Noir is a notoriously fickle and hard to grow grape, and therefore is found in much more specific regions, like Oregon, parts of California and Burgundy, France. Although is can be a laborious process, it’s typically considered a labor of love to produce a well-made Pinot Noir. Pinots can be light and fresh with vegetal and earthy aromas, or rich and full with notes of sweet baking spice, cherries and pepper. Some of the most famous and sought after Pinot’s have a deep mushroom, barnyard funk found in the soil of some areas in Burgundy, France. The most popular Pinot’s of late have come out of Oregon. The year-round moderate climate is similar to Burgundy, where Pinot thrives. Additionally, the Russian River Valley, Sonoma Valley and Carneros in California produce rich but elegant styles of Pinot Noir.
Key Regions
- France: Burgundy, Gevrey-Chambertin, Nuits-Saint-Georges, Pommard, Cote de Beaune
- California(Carneros, Russian Rivver Valley, Sonoma), Oregon(Willamette Valley, Dundee Hills), New Zealand
Key Attributes
- Aromas: Vegetal, Black Pepper, Cherry, Baking Spice, Barnyard
- Flavors:Cherry(Sour or Baked), Vanilla, Sweet Spices, Black Pepper, Mushroom, low tannins
Classic Pairings
- Salmon, Roast Poultry Dishes, Mushroom based dishes, Pork and Soft Cheeses
Born Thirsty 