In this edition I will highlight what is classically referred to as the “Nobel” grapes of France which could be red or white variety. For that reason we will take a short imaginary tour to France, starting with the Rouge (red) Pinot Noir.
The great red grape, known as Pinot Noir derived from the French words for “pine” (Pinot) and “black” (Noir), alluding to the varietals that are dark purple pine cone-shaped bunches of fruit.
The ancient Romans knew this grape since the first century AD and is most commonly found in Burgundy (Bourgogne) and Champagne regions in France. Today this type of grape is gaining popularity and a strong foothold in Napa California, Oregon and New Zealand.
This fickle grape prefers the cooler growing climates of the Carneros district of Napa, California and the South Island of New Zealand, specifically Central Otago produces some of the most amazingly fruit forward Pinot Noirs on store shelves at extremely good values.
All about ‘Aroma’ and ‘Texture’, this little gem is difficult to grow but can produce incredibly aromatic wines with seductive ruby colors and extraordinary layers of black cherry, raspberry and exotic spicy overtones. Its silky texture is very refined however, most particularly with Pinot’s from Oregon, they can also be earthy with organic scents sometimes referred to as forest floor or "barnyard”.
Some people don’t think of Champagne as being made from a dark-skinned grape, however you may be surprised to learn that Pinot Noir is one of the 3 authorized grapes used in the sparkling wine produced in the Champagne region of France.
You could pair Pinot Noir with grilled salmon, roast beef and any dish that features mushrooms as its main flavor. Pinot Noir is almost part of the traditional French Coq au Vin (chicken cooked in red wine) and Boeuf Bourginon (beef Burgundy).
Katerina recommends:
This week, let’s celebrate the end of winter time, with a good glass of Pinot Noir and a fantastic poultry or mushroom dish!
Put away your scarf and gloves and start feeling the change of the season with a great 2008 Pinot Noir Villamette Valley, Oregon. Wine Spectator gave it 88 points and described it as ”silky with pretty raspberry, root beer and floral flavors riding easily through a fine, delicate frame”. This Pinot Noir is produced by The Duck Pond Cellars (www.duckpondcellars.com) in the Valleys of Northern Oregon and eastern Washington. A wine that you can’t miss trying it!
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