- Lea Gatinois
PINOT NOIR
Pinot noir is undoubtedly one of the most famous and prestigious black grape varieties. Being early ripening, it thrives in cool climate, that will enable to preserve its delicate aromas (it can otherwise become quite jammy in too hot areas). Here is a quick overview of this grape variety and where it is grown.
What's the profile of pinot noir ?
light to medium colour
medium to high acidity
low to medium tannins
medium alcohol
light to medium body
red fruits (raspberry, cherry, plum), black fruits (blackberry), spicy notes from oak maturation, developing notes of mushroom and leather with age
There are so much styles produced, from light and fruity style, to fuller body and more concentrated. The latter, often matured in oak barrels, has the structure and complexity to age for decades. Pinot noir is also one of the major grape variety used in traditional method sparkling wines, bringing body and red fruit flavours.
Wines usually reach premium to super-premium prices. First, because pinot noir can be difficult (and therefore costly) to grow, being a sensitive grape variety (to spring frosts and diseases). Second, because it is very popular among consumers.

Overview of where it is grown:
France: Champagne, Burgundy, Alsace
Italy: Lombardy, Aosta Valley, Trentino Alto Adige
Germany: Baden, Ahr, Pfalz, Rheingau
Spain: Catalonia
USA: California, Oregon
Chile: Aconcagua, Southern
New Zealand: Wairarapa, Marlborough, Nelson, Canterbury, Central Otago
Australia: Tasmania, Victoria
South Africa: Cape South Coast
UK
Switzerland
Slovenia
Any country I am missing? Most probably!
Last ♥
Domaine Ballorin, Morey-Saint-Denis Trés Girad 2018 🇫🇷