Pinot Noir

The Pinot Noir is one of the grape varieties with black berries most fascinating and noble in the world. Famous for its elegance and complexity, this grape variety is at the heart of some of the most prestigious wines on the planet, in particular the wines of Burgundy and in the Champagne AOC. Its versatility and its ability to reflect the terroir make it one of the varieties most loved by winemakers and wine lovers.

Origin and Spread of Pinot Noir

The Pinot Noir has very ancient origins, dating back to Roman times. It was born in the region of Burgundy, in France, where it still reaches its highest quality expressions today. Thanks to its elegance and its ability to adapt to different terroirs, Pinot Noir has spread all over the world. Today it is grown in many prestigious wine regions, including:

• France (Burgundy, Champagne, Alsace)
• Italy (Alto Adige, Oltrepò Pavese, Trentino)
• United States (California, Oregon)
• New Zealand (Marlborough, Central Otago)
• Chile e South Africa

Characteristics of Pinot Noir

Pinot Noir is known for being a grape variety delicate e difficult to grow. It needs cool climates and well-drained soils, preferably based on limestone e clay. Despite its sensitivity to disease and to changes in the weather, when grown with care it gives wines of extraordinary finesse and complexity.

Aromatic Profile

Wines made with Pinot Noir stand out for their refined aromatic profile:

• Red fruits: cherry, strawberry, raspberry, redcurrant
• Floral notes: rose, violet
• Spicy shades: white pepper, cloves
• Evolved aromas: undergrowth, leather, truffle, mushrooms

On the Palate

On the palate, Pinot Noir is generally light e velvety, with soft tannins and lively acidity. This combination gives the wine a great ability to ageing, during which it develops complex, persistent aromas.

Pinot Noir in Champagne

In Champagne, Pinot Noir is one of the three main grape varieties along with Pinot Meunier and to the Chardonnay. Grown above all in the Montagne de Reims and in the Vallée de la Marne, Pinot Noir helps to give Champagnes structure, body e depth. It is the star of the elegant Blanc de Noirs, Champagnes made exclusively from black grapes, with fruity aromas and an enveloping structure.

Vinification of Pinot Noir

Pinot Noir can be vinified in several ways, which bring out its versatility:

• Red wines: in Burgundy, Pinot Noir gives elegant wines, with aromas of red fruit and earthy notes.
• Rosés: in Champagne, it is often vinified as a rosé to produce fresh, fruity rosé Champagnes.
• Sparkling wines: also used in the production of Metodo Classico in Italy and in other parts of the world.

Winemaking calls for great care, as Pinot Noir has thin skins that release delicate tannins. Maceration generally takes place at low temperatures to preserve the fruity aromas.

Food Pairings with Pinot Noir

Thanks to its elegance and moderate tannins, Pinot Noir is extremely versatile in food pairings. It goes perfectly with:

• White meat: chicken, turkey, rabbit
• Oily fish: salmon, seared tuna
• Vegetarian dishes: mushrooms, truffles, grilled vegetables
• Cheeses: Brie, Camembert, fontina

In cooler climates, the lighter Pinot Noir wines are ideal with delicate dishes, while the more structured versions suit red meat and game.