The allure of Pinot Noir is undeniable. Its elegance and power make it one of the most sought-after wines in the world. But what exactly makes Pinot Noir so special? Join me, Christine Marcilio, a Master of Wine, as I unravel the mysteries of this enigmatic grape.
The Delicate Finesse of Pinot Noir
Pinot Noir, with its thin skin, originates from the Burgundy region in France. Unlike its red grape counterparts, Pinot Noir thrives in cooler climates. However, it’s not an easy grape to cultivate. Pinot Noir requires specific terroir and climate to flourish.
When grown successfully, Pinot Noir boasts captivating red fruit aromas. You’ll discover notes of raspberry, strawberry, and red cherry, along with hints of violets and roses. These delicate floral aromas embody the finesse of Pinot Noir.
As Pinot Noir ages, it develops savory flavors reminiscent of undergrowth, mushrooms, and truffles. This aging process contributes to the complexity and depth of the wine. High-quality Pinot Noir wines can age exceptionally well over a long period, gaining even more character and finesse.
Smoky, Toasty, and Light-Bodied
Pinot Noir can also surprise you with smoky or toasty flavors acquired through aging in oak barrels. Unlike other red wines, Pinot Noir has thinner skins, resulting in lower tannin levels. This characteristic gives rise to lighter-bodied styles, making it a refreshing option for those who prefer lighter red wines.
Exploring Pinot Noir Around the World
While Burgundy is the birthplace of Pinot Noir, it can now be found in various regions worldwide. For example, Oregon, Chile’s coastal areas, Germany, southern Australia, New Zealand, and coastal California all boast remarkable Pinot Noir wines.
Look for regions with cooling influences from oceans or colder climates, as they provide ideal conditions for growing exceptional Pinot Noir grapes. Each region imparts its unique characteristics, offering a diverse range of flavors and expressions.
Tasting the Essence of Pinot Noir
Today, we have two exceptional wines to taste and compare. The first hails from Burgundy, specifically the lesser-known village of Jivri in the Cote Chalonnaise region. This 100% Pinot Noir wine showcases a pale color due to its thin skins. Delicately scented with violets, fresh red cherries, and raspberries, it also carries a subtle hint of clove from its aging in oak barrels. With pleasant acidity and silky tannins, this elegant wine promises to evolve beautifully over the next five to seven years.
Our second wine takes us to Martinborough, located on New Zealand’s North Island. This region is renowned for producing exceptional Pinot Noir grapes. Similar to its Burgundian counterpart, this Pinot Noir displays a pale hue with a hint of garnet. Offering slightly riper fruit flavors due to increased sunshine, it still maintains the signature red fruit and floral notes with a touch of oak spice. With vibrant acidity and ripe, smooth tannins, this wine exudes sophistication and depth, making it an exquisite representation of New Zealand’s Pinot Noir prowess.
Pairing Pinot Noir with Culinary Delights
Pinot Noir’s lighter style pairs exceptionally well with a variety of dishes. Consider roasted chicken or duck for a delightful harmony. Mushroom dishes, such as mushroom risotto, complement Pinot Noir’s earthy undertones. Surprisingly, certain types of fish, such as salmon or grilled mackerel, can also be enjoyed alongside this versatile wine.
The Price Tag of Pinot Noir
Pinot Noir often commands a higher price compared to other grape varieties. Why is that? Firstly, it’s a challenging grape to grow, demanding a specific cool climate and expressing the terroir of its origin. Additionally, its limited production cannot meet the high demand for this beloved wine. However, you can find exceptional value wines within Burgundy if you know where to look.
Unlocking the Secrets of Pinot Noir
Thank you for joining me on this journey through the captivating world of Pinot Noir. If you’re curious about other grape varieties, feel free to explore more on Hook’d Up Bar and Grill. Cheers to uncovering the magic of wine!