Notes on picking a good Pinot Noir

Pinot Noir is one of my favorite wines, yet picking a bad Pinot Noir can also be your worst bottle of wine you ever bought. So here are a few notes on picking out a good bottle of Pinot Noir.

First make sure you are buying a Pinot that is produced in either the areas of California such as central coast, northern, or in Monterey County. Willamette Valley of Oregon, New Zealand, or European areas of Frances’ Champagne and Burgundy regions grow good Pinot Noir grapes, along with areas in Germany, Austria, and Switzerland. Pinot Noir grapes are as hard to grow if not grown in the right climate, the right soil, and with the right touch. It’s like trying to get a two year old to stop saying no, you have to out trick them. This is why where they are grown is so important.

Climate of the harvested season is of particular importance to taste and smell. During cold growing seasons (year) will taste bracing acidity and cherry flavors with the hints of baking spices. In a warmer growing seasons and riper seasons, Pinot may even have a gamey aroma, along with blueberry, strawberry, and blackberry flavors.

Bon Appétit