Pinot Noir
The sensual red — supple, silky, earthy; lighter in body and far less tannic than cabernet, and famously the most difficult grape to grow.
About the grape
Thought to be more than two thousand years old, pinot noir is a 'founder variety' and, more than any other wine, is described in sensual terms — its remarkably supple, silky textures and erotically earthy aromas set it apart. Top pinots exude warm baked cherries, plums, pomegranate, and strawberry jam alongside damp earth, forest floor, mushrooms, and worn leather. It is lighter in body and far less tannic than cabernet sauvignon, merlot, or syrah, and lighter in color, yet its aromas and flavors can be deep and riveting. Considered the most difficult grape to grow and vinify, its historic home is Burgundy (home of the legendary Romanée-Conti), with outstanding New World examples from Oregon, New Zealand, and California.
Where it grows
Burgundy, California, Casablanca Valley, Central Otago, Champagne, Marlborough, Martinborough, Oregon, Sonoma County, Victoria, Willamette Valley, Yarra
