Pinot Noir is a red wine grape variety known for producing some of the world’s most refined and sophisticated wines. It is a thin-skinned grape that is difficult to grow, but when grown in the right conditions, it can produce light to medium-bodied wines with flavours of red and black fruit, earth and spice. Pinot Noir is often called the “heartbreak grape” because of its finicky nature, but it is also highly prized by winemakers and wine enthusiasts alike. Pinot prefers cold climates and, unlike other popular grapes such as Cabernet Sauvignon, it won’t grow anywhere — Pinot only thrives when the conditions are right.

Pinot Noir is a popular varietal that is grown in many regions around the world. Some of the most popular Pinot Noir wines come from Burgundy, France, where the grape is said to have originated. Other popular regions for Pinot Noir include California, Oregon, Australia, Germany, Northern Italy and New Zealand. Some of the most well-known Pinot Noir wines include Domaine de la Romanée-Conti in Burgundy, Kistler Vineyards in California, and Williams Selyem in Oregon.

Pinot Noir can be made in various styles, depending on the region and winemaking techniques. Some Pinot Noir wines are light and fruity, while others are full-bodied and complex. Some of the different types of Pinot Noir wine include: Burgundy Pinot Noir: These wines are often light, tart and delicate, with black fruit and earth flavours. Mushrooms and undergrowth are common traits in Burgundian Pinot, and new oak spice aromas are not as noticeable. New World Pinot Noir: These wines are often more fruit-forward and full-bodied, with flavours of black cherry, raspberry and spice. You’ll notice new oak scents in these expressions, but only sometimes earthbound aromas. Sparkling Pinot Noir: Pinot Noir is also used to make sparkling wines, such as Champagne and others. Together with Chardonnay, Pinot Noir is one of the key ingredients in the most elegant sparkling white and rosé wines.

The best Pinot Noir wines are often a matter of personal taste, but some of the most highly rated and sought-after Pinot Noir wines include: Bouchard Pere & Fils: This Burgundy producer is known for producing some of the world’s finest and highly prized Pinot Noir wines. La Crema: This California producer is known for producing rich and complex Pinot Noir wines highly sought after by wine enthusiasts. 42 Degrees South: This producer from New Zealand is known for producing elegant and balanced Pinot Noir wines that critics and wine enthusiasts highly rate. New Zealand is becoming a leading source of fine Pinot at affordable prices.

Pinot Noir is not amongst the most planted grapes in the world despite its popularity, and it’s because it only grows in specific places and can only be tamed by expert hands. Opening a bottle of Pinot Noir is always a special occasion. Explore our collection of Pinot Noir and add a couple of bottles to your cellar for everyday enjoyment and memorable dinner parties; Pinot Noir never disappoints.