🍇Grape Variety

Pinot-Meunier

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"pee-noh muh-NYAY"

Wine Styles

Sparkling WineSparkling
Light White WineLight White
Full White WineFull White
Aromatic WineAromatic
Rosé WineRosé
Light Red WineLight Red
Medium Red WineMedium Red
Full Red WineFull Red
Dessert WineDessert
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About Pinot-Meunier

Origin
Champagne, France
History
Pinot Meunier, also known simply as Meunier, is a dark-berried grape variety most famously used in the Champagne blend alongside Pinot Noir and Chardonnay. The name 'Meunier' is French for 'miller,' referring to the flour-like appearance of the underside of the vine's leaves. Historically, Pinot Meunier was considered less prestigious than Pinot Noir and Chardonnay, but it has gained recognition for its contribution to the fruitiness and approachability of Champagne. In recent years, some producers have begun bottling single-varietal Pinot Meunier wines, both sparkling and still, showcasing its unique characteristics.
Appearance
Small, dark-skinned berries with a deep blue-black hue.
Growing Traits
Pinot Meunier is a mutation of Pinot Noir and shares many characteristics with its parent variety. It is known for its hardiness and ability to thrive in cooler climates, making it particularly well-suited to regions like Champagne. The vine's leaves have a distinctive white, floury underside, which gives the grape its name. Pinot Meunier tends to bud later and ripen earlier than Pinot Noir, reducing the risk of frost damage and making it a reliable choice for growers.
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Wine Characteristics

Body
2/5
Sweetness
1/5
Tannin
2/5
Acidity
4/5
Alcohol
2/5
Light to medium-bodied with a fresh and fruity profile, offering subtle complexity. Typically vinified dry, though some off-dry and sparkling versions exist. Moderate tannin levels, contributing to a smooth and approachable mouthfeel. Medium to high acidity, providing vibrancy and enhancing its food-pairing versatility. Moderate alcohol content, generally around 12-13%, contributing to its balanced character.
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Taste Profile

Sour Cherry
Sour Cherry
Pomegranate
Pomegranate
Mushroom
Mushroom
Rose
Rose
Earthy
Earthy
Pinot Meunier wines often display bright red fruit flavors such as tart cherry and pomegranate, complemented by earthy notes of mushroom and potting soil. Floral hints of rose add complexity, while medium-high acidity and low tannins contribute to a refreshing and approachable palate.
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Food Pairing

Pinot Meunier's fresh acidity and red fruit flavors make it a versatile companion for various dishes. It pairs well with pork, roast duck, mushrooms, and grilled vegetables. Its light to medium body complements charcuterie and soft cheeses, and it can also be enjoyed with seafood, particularly in sparkling versions.
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Growing Regions

France
France
ChampagneLoire Valley
Germany
Germany
Württemberg
United States
United States
CaliforniaOregon
Australia
Australia
Yarra ValleyTasmania
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Notable Wines & Producers

Champagne Brut Tradition
Egly-Ouriet
Chartogne-Taillet
Coteaux Champenois Rouge
Champagne Tarlant
Champagne Laherte Frères

Pinot-Meunier FAQ

Common questions about this grape variety
What is the origin of Pinot-Meunier?
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Champagne, France
Is Pinot-Meunier wine full bodied?
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Pinot-Meunier has a body level of 2 out of 5. Which means that Pinot-Meunier is Moderate to Light bodied.
Is Pinot-Meunier wine dry or sweet?
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Pinot-Meunier has a dryness level of 1 out of 5. Which means that Pinot-Meunier is Dry.
Where is Pinot-Meunier wine from?
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Champagne, France
Where is Pinot-Meunier grown?
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Pinot-Meunier is grown in France (Champagne, Loire Valley)Germany (Württemberg)United States (California, Oregon)Australia (Yarra Valley, Tasmania).
What is Pinot-Meunier like?
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Pinot Meunier wines often display bright red fruit flavors such as tart cherry and pomegranate, complemented by earthy notes of mushroom and potting soil. Floral hints of rose add complexity, while medium-high acidity and low tannins contribute to a refreshing and approachable palate.
What does Pinot-Meunier pair with?
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Pinot Meunier's fresh acidity and red fruit flavors make it a versatile companion for various dishes. It pairs well with pork, roast duck, mushrooms, and grilled vegetables. Its light to medium body complements charcuterie and soft cheeses, and it can also be enjoyed with seafood, particularly in sparkling versions.
What does Pinot-Meunier taste like?
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Pinot Meunier wines often display bright red fruit flavors such as tart cherry and pomegranate, complemented by earthy notes of mushroom and potting soil. Floral hints of rose add complexity, while medium-high acidity and low tannins contribute to a refreshing and approachable palate.
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