Pinot Noir
Definition - What does Pinot Noir mean?
In the context of wine grape varietals, Pinot Noir is a species of vitis vinifera and is a red grape varietal. The grapes grow in pine cone-shaped bunches of tightly packed fruit, which makes the grape susceptible to disease and rot, however, Pinot Noir grapes thrive in cooler growing regions such as the Burgundy Region of France, the Willamette Valley of Oregon, the Central Coast and the Russian River Valley of California. The vine has small leaves, and the grapes have low levels of phenolic compounds and thin-skins which produce medium bodied, low tannin wines with a light red color. Pinot Noir is one of the classic red noble grape varieties.
WineFrog explains Pinot Noir
Understanding the characteristics of the Pinot Noir red grape varietal, will help you to understand the aroma and taste the flavors in Pinot Noir wines. Despite being challenging to grow, Pinot Noir grapes make exceptional wines. Wines made with Pinot Noir from cooler regions will have the classic characteristics of acidity and tart fruit flavors.
Pinot Noir wines are medium bodied, light colored wines, with pronounced flavors of red fruit such as; cherries strawberries and raspberries, as well as vanilla, tobacco and oak. Pinot Noir pairs well many different types of foods and cooking methods. Due to it’s fruit flavors and refreshing acidity, you can enjoy Pinot Noir with roasted or grilled meats, game and fish as well as cheeses, pastas and stews.
