Pinot Noir

Winemakers sometimes refer to pinot noir as a difficult grape to grow but the results can be nothing short of stunning. No other wine grape will elicit the passionate response often seen as wine makers and wine lovers speak of this noble grape. Originally grown in the Burgundy region of central France, pinot noir is now planted in every fine wine growing region of the world. Great examples can be found in California, Oregon, Germany, New Zealand and of course, France.

Pinot noir is one of the most genetically unstable among the vinifera grapes which explains the emergence of pinot gris as a white wine grape. No other grape exhibits the uniqueness of place as well as pinot noir. Wines made in Burgundy can be completely different than those made in California and Oregon.

Traditionally, great pinot noir has been attributed to the Cote d' Or of Burgundy. Here vineyards are designated by the quality of wines produced and are labeled as 'Bourgone" for simple table wine or by village. The best vineyards have been designated as either Premier Cru or the very best as Grand Cru. Grand Cru Burgundy is expensive and it pays to know the reputation of the producer. Inheritance laws in Burgundy equally divide land to the heirs of the land owner and some owners now control less than a row of a single vineyard. This has led to a great deal of inconsistency in the quality of wines coming from the region.

Oregon wine has become somewhat synonymous with pinot noir. The Willamette Valley in Northern Oregon happens to lie on the same latitude as Burgundy and due to the rain shadow effect of the Coastal Range creates a perfect growing environment for fine pinot noir. A handful of wine pioneers planted the first vineyards in the 1960's and now the region is home to nearly 400 wineries.

California winemakers have found several areas capable of growing excellent pinot noir. Our favorites northern appellations include the Anderson Valley, Carneros, Russian River Valley, and the Sonoma Coast. Further south lay the regions of the Santa Rita Hills, Santa Maria Valley, Chalone, and Ranch Seco.

The 2004 movie "Sideways" brought world wide attention to pinot noir, exposing many wine drinkers to the variety for the first time. Since the movie, pinot noir sales have steadily increased as more and more people fall in love with this wonderful variety.

Our favorite pinot noir quote:

"A great cabernet will knock your socks off but a great pinot noir will slide them off gently".

Our Favorites:

Balletto 2007 Pinot Noir, Russian River Valley
Vibrant aromas of fresh cherry, currant and spice balanced with a slight amount of oak. Soft, silky tannins and nice acidity.
($24)

Ponzi Willamette Valley Pinot Noir
Cherry and violets with a hint of clove and earth. Long finish.
($35)

Paul Mathew 2006 Pinot Noir, Russian River Valley
Strawberry, cranberry and wild mushrooms describe this classic style of pinot noir. Pricey but worth every penny.
($35)

Hirsch Vineyards 2006 Estate Pinot Noir, Sonoma Coast
Fresh cherry, spice and' monstrous' acidity make this one of our favorites at a recent tasting..
($60)

Roessler Cellars 2006 Clos Pepe Vineyard Pinot Noir, Santa Rita Hills
Sold out but all we can say is WOW!
($90)

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