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What is Pinot Noir?

Red wine is the oldest wine in the world. The first red wines likely date back to between 6,000 and 4,000 BC. Over centuries, the Vitis Vinifera species of grape has become preferred for winemaking, with Pinot Noir being one of its most celebrated varieties. If you’ve ever asked yourself, “what is Pinot Noir?” you’re in the right place. In this guide, we’ll cover a brief history of Pinot Noir, its flavor profile, and how you can store and serve it properly. 

What is Pinot Noir?

Pinot Noir is one of the oldest and most beloved red wines in the world. Though unknown, it is widely thought to have originated in Burgundy, France. Pinot Noir grapes have a tendency to ripen unevenly, which can make them challenging and costly to grow. This harvesting challenge makes Pinot Noir very difficult to produce. Despite France being the mecca of Pinot Noir, there are wineries throughout California and Oregon that also produce exceptional Pinot Noirs. 

The Flavor Profile of Pinot Noir

Pinot Noir is a red wine that’s mildly dry with a light to medium body and relatively high acidity with softer tannins when compared to many other red wines. The flavors and aromas from Pinot Noir will vary based on its origin. French Pinot Noirs generally feature cherry, hibiscus, and soil notes while Californian and Oregonian Pinot Noirs feature cherry, raspberry, and vanilla notes. It can also be found as one of the three major grapes used for Champagne production.

How to Store and Serve Pinot Noir

Pinot Noir is at its best when it’s served between 55-65°F. If the color of your Pinot Noir is on the lighter side, you should serve the wine closer to 55 degrees. Alternatively, fuller and darker Pinot Noirs are best at 65 degrees. Whenever you store a fresh bottle of Pinot Noir, you want to keep it in a cool dark place. If you don’t finish the bottle after serving, you can replace the cork and keep it in your refrigerator for a couple days. 

Pinot Noir is a favorite wine throughout wine community and understandably so. Check our inventory today and order your Pinot Noir today!