Pinot Noir Overview

1. The Grape

Pinot Noir is a black grape known for producing wines of light colour, soft texture, and delicate flavours of cherry, raspberry, and spice.
It needs cool climates to stay fresh and elegant, and is sensitive to weather—spring frost and rot can easily damage the thin-skinned grapes.

Because it ripens early, it grows best in places with warm days and cool nights.

2. How It’s Made

Pinot Noir grapes are usually fermented gently to keep soft tannins and fruity aromas.
Some winemakers include whole grape clusters for extra perfume and spice.
The wines often age in French oak barrels for up to a year and a half.
When picked early, it’s also used to make sparkling wines like Champagne.

3. Where It’s Grown and What It Tastes Like

• Burgundy (France): the classic home; elegant, silky wines with red fruit and earthy notes.
• Alsace (France): lighter reds with bright cherry fruit and lively acidity.
• Germany (Spätburgunder): fresh, delicate styles from cool valleys.
• Oregon (USA): red-cherry and floral wines with gentle oak.
• California: richer, darker styles from sunny coasts.
• New Zealand: juicy, fruity Pinots with great balance.
• Australia (Tasmania): cool and refined; often for sparkling wine.

4. Why People Love It

Pinot Noir makes wines that are fragrant, smooth, and full of personality.
It reflects the place it’s grown—a Burgundy tastes very different from one from Oregon or Central Otago.
That connection between vineyard and flavour is what makes Pinot Noir one of the world’s most admired and sought-after grapes.