2011 Pinot Noir

 

Pinot Noir may be the world’s most fickle grape. The name is derived from the French words for “pine” and “black”, referring to the tightly-clustered, dark purple grapes in pine cone-shaped bunches. 

Originally hailing from the Burgundy region in France, Pinot Noir grapes are grown in cooler regions around the world, but the climate, soils and technique must be perfect. Pinot Noir mutates easily, resulting in various clones from region to region. In addition to Burgundy, leading Pinot-producing regions include Oregon, California, New Zealand, Chile, France, Spain, Germany and Italy. Pinot Noir grapes are also grown in Champagne, France because it is one of the three main grapes used in sparkling wine.

Pinot Noir is a dry, red wine with fruity flavors – strawberry, raspberry and blackberry. Earthy hints include mushrooms and truffles, while notes of cinnamon, clove and baking spices are also common. American Pinot Noir from Oregon and California usually delivers a more intense fruit flavor.

Its lighter body, rich fruit character and consistent acidity make Pinot Noir a very versatile food wine. It pairs well with everything from beef, pork, poultry and fish, to cheese, chocolate, and creamy sauces, to many ethnic dishes. 

One last tip: Be sure to use the proper pronunciation. Pinot Noir is pronounced “PEA-no nwar”, not “peanut noyer”. 

 

Pinot Noir may be the world’s most fickle grape. The name is derived from the French words for “pine” and “black”, referring to the tightly-clustered, dark purple grapes in pine cone-shaped bunches. 

Originally hailing from the Burgundy region in France, Pinot Noir grapes are grown in cooler regions around the world, but the climate, soils and technique must be perfect. Pinot Noir mutates easily, resulting in various clones from region to region. In addition to Burgundy, leading Pinot-producing regions include Oregon, California, New Zealand, Chile, France, Spain, Germany and Italy. Pinot Noir grapes are also grown in Champagne, France because it is one of the three main grapes used in sparkling wine.

Pinot Noir is a dry, red wine with fruity flavors – strawberry, raspberry and blackberry. Earthy hints include mushrooms and truffles, while notes of cinnamon, clove and baking spices are also common. American Pinot Noir from Oregon and California usually delivers a more intense fruit flavor.

Its lighter body, rich fruit character and consistent acidity make Pinot Noir a very versatile food wine. It pairs well with everything from beef, pork, poultry and fish, to cheese, chocolate, and creamy sauces, to many ethnic dishes. 

One last tip: Be sure to use the proper pronunciation. Pinot Noir is pronounced “PEA-no nwar”, not “peanut noyer”.