Pinot Noir grapes hang from the fine on a wooden trellis

Discovery Series Explores Pinot Noir

Pinot noir is a vibrant red grape varietal that grows all over the globe. One of the world’s most popular wines, it offers an array of distinctive styles with high acidity that makes it perfect to pair with creamy and fatty dishes.

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Exploring Pinot Noir

Two wine glasses on a mossy rock wall hold ruby red wine with a chateau in the background

Typical characteristics of pinot noir.

Known as the heartbreak grape, pinot noir is notoriously difficult to grow, as the climate factors greatly into the success of a region’s vintage. It’s generally packed with vibrant acidity and lower, softer tannins with a more translucent brick-red color and a lighter body.

Exploring Pinot Noir

Two wine glasses shot from above hold ruby red wine sit on dark grained wood

Young or aged, always exquisite.

Pinot noir can change its tone as it ages. Younger examples exude fresh aromas of raspberries, strawberries, cherries and roses. When mature, it may take on rustic characteristics described as earthy, leathery, or even notes of mushroom reminiscent of a forest floor.

Exploring Pinot Noir

A backlit silhouetted man holds a glass of red wine to his nose

How to serve pinot noir.

Pinot noir tastes best when served with a slight chill, ideally between 55°-60° F, in a large, wide-bowled wineglass. The larger glass helps the wine breathe and delivers aromas to your nose while sipping, balancing the components on your palate.

Exploring Pinot Noir

A group of four people cheers with wine glasses

Pairing pinot noir.

Pinot noir is an extremely versatile food-pairing partner. As one of the lightest-bodied reds, it can fill in for heavier whites. Its vibrant complexity matches equally complex recipes, pairing just as easily with mushrooms, eggplant, duck and richer fish like salmon or tuna.