Pinot Noir

Question 1

Where was Pinot Noir originally planted ?

Answer 1

Burgundy, it is well suited to the moderate climate there

Question 2

Pinot Noir has very tight bunches of small berries, what happens because of this ?

Answer 2

Because of the tightness of the bunches, it is prone to rot, though due to systemic sprays and improved canopy management this is much less of a problem.

Question 3

What does a Young Pinot Noir tend to express ?

Answer 3

A fruity perfume of raspberries, strawberries or red cherries.

Question 4

What kind of skin does Pinot Noir have ?

Answer 4

Pinot Noir is thin skinned therefore producing soft light tannins and is seldom deep in colour.

Question 5

How do Pinot Noirs age?

Answer 5

Pinot Noir tends to age unpredictably, and albeit some opinions, it can be enjoyed at all stages in its life., without having to battle with mouth-puckering tannins or raw acidity.

Question 6

What do Pinot Noirs express when aged?

Answer 6

With age, vegetal and farmyard aromas develop.

Question 7

What does Pinot Noir outside of Burgundy need?

Answer 7

Moderate or cool conditions otherwise resulting wines have over-ripe jammy flavours.

Question 8

Where can classic Pinot Noirs be found?

Answer 8

Carneros and Sonoma (California)
Walker Bay (South Africa)
The Yarra Valley (Australia)
Martinborough, Malborough and Central Otago (NZ)

Question 9

What is Pinot Noir also a important constituent of ?

Answer 9

Champagne and many New World Sparkling Wines