Pinot Noir
Commonly referred to as the “noble grape” or “red burgundy,” Pinot Noir is a blue-tinged grape variety. This fussy grape makes a popular red wine and originates from Burgundy, France.
While Burgundy continues to pump out some of the finest Pinot Noir wines in the world, high-quality Pinot Noir is grown and made today in many cooler climates around the world like in New Zeland.
Pinot Noir’s background
Pinot Noir vines require soil that is both aerated and drains well for optimal growth. These vines are typically rooted in soil with high concentrations of gravel, chalk and or clay. Climate wise, the vine needs warm (but not hot) sun-filled days and crisp cool evenings with minimal weather variation before harvesting.
The grape itself has a thin skin (hence low tannins), which unfortunately makes it easily susceptible to disease and rot. All things considered, winemakers must watch their crops closely. Even the most experienced Pinot Noir winemakers can have trouble growing this varietal, though some terroirs make for easier cultivation than others.
How Long Has Pinot Noir Wine Been in Production?
We can trace the drinking of Pinot Noir wines back to sometime during the first century – when the ancient Romans recorded drinking it not long after they captured much of the Gaul region – which is now France.
There is no definitive evidence as to when exactly the grape was first fermented and enjoyed, though needless to say it’s been around for a long while.