Pinot Noir

Type: Red

Origin: Burgundy, France

Body: Light-medium body

Tannins: Low-medium tannin

Acidity: Medium-high acidity

Food Pairings

Meat

Duck

Roast chicken

Pork tenderloin

Salmon

Cheese

Brie

Camembert

Gruyere

Taleggio

Other dishes

Mushroom dishes

Truffle pasta

Herb-crusted vegetables

Beetroot salad

Pinot Noir is one of the oldest and most revered red wine grape varieties in the world, originating in the Burgundy region of France over 1,000 years ago. Known for its elegance and complexity, Pinot Noir is also one of the most finicky grapes to grow—earning it the nickname “the heartbreak grape.” Its thin skins make it susceptible to disease, but when cultivated in ideal conditions, it can produce some of the world’s most extraordinary wines.

This noble grape is the parent of several other varieties, including Pinot Gris and Pinot Blanc. Pinot Noir thrives in cool climates, and its transparent style allows terroir to shine through more than almost any other red grape. It’s beloved by sommeliers and wine lovers for its aromatic finesse, savory depth, and ability to pair with a wide range of foods.

Taste Profile

Primary Flavours

Cherry

Raspberry

Cranberry

Strawberry

Rose Petal

Secondary Flavours

Vanilla

Clove

Cinnamon

Toast

Tertiary Flavours

Forest floor

Dried leaves

Mushroom

Leather

Winemaking

Pinot Noir is often fermented with whole clusters to enhance aromatic complexity and structure. It’s typically aged in French oak barrels, though the amount of new oak varies by producer and region. Gentle handling during winemaking is essential to preserve the grape’s delicate aromatics. Malolactic fermentation is standard, and extended aging can coax out earthy and savory notes. Minimal intervention is often the winemaker's philosophy with Pinot Noir, allowing site expression to dominate.

Key Growing Regions

Burgundy, France

The spiritual home of Pinot Noir, especially in the Côte d'Or. Wines from here range from ethereal and floral in Chambolle-Musigny to structured and brooding in Gevrey-Chambertin. These wines are among the most sought-after (and expensive) in the world.

Willamette Valley, Oregon, USA

Cool climate and volcanic soils produce elegant, earthy Pinot Noirs with vibrant acidity and red berry fruit. Oregon Pinot Noir has become a global benchmark in the New World.

Central Otago, New Zealand

One of the world’s southernmost wine regions, producing bold, fruit-driven Pinot Noirs with notes of cherry, spice, and herbs. The region’s extreme climate adds concentration and freshness.

Sonoma Coast, California, USA

Cool maritime influence results in ripe yet balanced Pinot Noirs with notes of dark cherry, cola, and baking spice. Some sub-regions like Russian River Valley are famous for lush, velvety styles.

Alsace, France & Baden, Germany (Spätburgunder)

Often overlooked, these cooler European regions produce light-bodied Pinot Noir with high acidity and fresh red fruit—perfect for food pairing.

Fun Facts

1

Pinot Noir is over 1,000 years older than Cabernet Sauvignon.

2

It’s one of the three main grapes used in Champagne (along with Chardonnay and Pinot Meunier).

3

The grape’s name means “pine black” in French, referencing its pine cone-shaped clusters and dark skin.

4

Pinot Noir is notoriously difficult to grow—small changes in climate or soil can drastically affect quality.

5

The 2004 movie Sideways boosted Pinot Noir’s global popularity and led to a measurable spike in sales.