Pinot-Noir

Burgundy, France

Pinot Noir is one of the oldest grape varieties cultivated for wine production, with a history dating back over a thousand years. Its name is derived from the French words for 'pine' and 'black,' referring to the grape's tightly clustered, pinecone-shaped bunches of dark fruit. Primarily associated with the Burgundy region of France, Pinot Noir has gained acclaim for producing some of the world's most elegant and complex wines. Due to its thin skin and susceptibility to various viticultural hazards, it is often referred to as the 'heartbreak grape.' Despite these challenges, Pinot Noir is now cultivated in many cooler wine-growing regions worldwide, including Oregon, California, New Zealand, and Germany.

Small, tightly clustered bunches of dark blue to black berries.

Pinot Noir is known for its genetic instability, leading to numerous clones and mutations. It thrives in cooler climates with well-drained soils and requires meticulous vineyard management due to its susceptibility to diseases and environmental factors. The grape's thin skin contributes to its delicate tannin structure and light color in the resulting wines.