Pinot Noir (2015) – Sol Negru

What is Pinot Noir?

History and Origin

Pinot Noir wine, known as the “heartbreak grape” because it’s hard to grow, has a long history starting in ancient Rome. It comes from Burgundy, France, and is one of the oldest grapes still around. The name means “black pine” due to the grape clusters’ pinecone-like shape. Over the years, it has spread to wine regions worldwide, each adding its unique touch to this classic grape.

Characteristics of Pinot Noir

Pinot Noir is known for its light body, low tannins, and high acidity. It often has red fruit aromas like cherry, raspberry, and strawberry. The wine’s colour is lighter than other reds, from pale ruby to deep garnet. These delicate flavours make Pinot Noir popular among wine lovers.

Popular Pinot Noir Regions

While Burgundy is the gold standard, many regions around the world grow great Pinot Noir. Notable ones include Oregon’s Willamette Valley, California’s Sonoma County, and New Zealand’s Central Otago. Each area gives the wine unique traits based on local conditions. For example, Californian Pinot Noirs are often fruitier with higher alcohol, while Burgundy’s are known for their elegance and complexity.

How to Sip Pinot Noir?

Proper Glassware

The right glass can greatly improve your Pinot Noir experience. A Burgundy glass, with a large bowl and narrow rim, helps the wine’s aromas develop. It also directs the wine to the tip of your tongue, enhancing its fruit flavours. Good glassware can noticeably change how you taste the wine.

Serving Temperature

Serving Pinot Noir at the right temperature is key to enjoying its full flavour. Aim for 55°F to 60°F (13°C to 16°C). This cool temperature keeps the wine’s acidity and delicate flavours balanced. If it’s too warm, the wine may taste too alcoholic and lose its freshness.

Tasting Techniques

To truly enjoy Pinot Noir, follow these steps:

1. Look at its colour and clarity;
2. Swirl the wine to release aromas, then inhale deeply to notice the different scents;
3. Take a small sip, letting the wine cover your palate, and observe the flavours from start to finish.

This simple method helps you appreciate the wine’s full complexity.

Ageing and Storage

Pinot Noir can age well, usually maturing faster than other red wines. Good Pinot Noirs can age for 5 to 10 years, developing richer flavours. Store it in a cool, dark place at 50°F to 55°F (10°C to 13°C) to maintain its quality.

Which Foods Pair Well with Pinot Noir?

Cheese Pairings

Pinot Noir is great with many cheeses. Soft, creamy cheeses like Brie and Camembert match its acidity and fruitiness. Hard cheeses like Gruyère and Cheddar offer a nice savoury contrast. The wine is subtle enough not to overpower the cheese, making for a delightful pairing.

Meat and Poultry Pairings

Pinot Noir’s light body and acidity make it perfect for pairing with meat and poultry. It enhances flavours without overpowering them, and it goes well with roast chicken, duck, and turkey. Grilled lamb and pork also taste great with this wine. Pinot Noir is a versatile choice for meat lovers.

Vegetarian and Vegan Pairings

Pinot Noir pairs wonderfully with vegetarian and vegan dishes. Mushroom dishes like risotto or stuffed mushrooms match its earthy flavours. Roasted vegetables, especially carrots and beets, enhance its fruitiness. Even hearty salads with nuts and dried fruits go well with Pinot Noir, showing its versatility.

Dessert Pairings

For dessert, Pinot Noir can be a pleasant surprise. Its acidity and fruit flavours go well with berry desserts like raspberry tarts and cherry clafoutis. Dark chocolate desserts also pair nicely, as the wine’s light tannins balance the rich chocolate. This pairing can be a perfect way to end a meal, leaving a memorable impression.

Price Range

Pinot Noir wines come in a range of prices due to their quality, origin, and how they are made. Basic bottles usually cost between $10 and $20, giving a good introduction to the wine’s flavors. Mid-range options, offering more complexity, can cost between $30 and $60. High-end Pinot Noirs from famous places like Burgundy or the Sonoma Coast can go over $100 per bottle. Remember, price doesn’t always mean better quality; your own taste is key to finding the perfect Pinot Noir.

FAQ

Is Pinot Noir a sweet or dry wine?

Pinot Noir is typically a dry wine. It is known for its balanced acidity and lower tannin levels, which contribute to its smooth and elegant texture. The wine’s fruit-forward flavours can sometimes give a perception of sweetness, but it generally lacks residual sugar.

Is Pinot Noir a light or heavy wine?

Pinot Noir is considered a light to medium-bodied wine. Its lighter structure makes it approachable and versatile for pairing with a wide range of foods. Unlike heavier reds like Cabernet Sauvignon, Pinot Noir offers a more delicate and nuanced tasting experience.

Why is Pinot Noir the healthiest wine?

Pinot Noir is often cited as one of the healthiest wines due to its high levels of resveratrol, an antioxidant found in the skin of red grapes. Resveratrol is known for its potential heart health benefits, such as reducing bad cholesterol and lowering blood pressure. Additionally, Pinot Noir tends to have lower alcohol and sugar levels compared to other red wines.

What kind of wine is Pinot Noir?

Pinot Noir is a type of red wine made from the Pinot Noir grape variety. Originating from the Burgundy region of France, this grape is now grown all over the world. Pinot Noir wines are celebrated for their complex flavours, which can include notes of cherry, raspberry, mushroom, and various spices, depending on the terroir and winemaking techniques used.