Pinot Noir

Question 1

What happens if growing conditions are too warm?

Answer 1

Loses its fresh fruit flavors and taste unattractively cooked.

Question 2

How is pinot noir commonly produced?

Answer 2

As a single varietal

Notable exception of sparkling wines such as Champagne

Question 3

How is it matured in oak?

Answer 3

Older and/or larger barrels are uses because they impart less flavor. Small new oak can overwhelm a delicately flavored pinot noir.

Question 4

What are the important French regions for pinot noir?

Answer 4

Bourgogne AOC

Villages within the Côte d’Or:

Gevrey-Chambertin AOC

Nuits-Saint-Georges AOC

Beaune AOC

Pommard AOC

Question 5

What are the best Burgundy sites for Pinot Noir

Answer 5

Located on south- and south-east facing slopes that benefit from extra sunlight. Capable of producing more concentrated flavors and complexity suitable for aging.

Question 6

Where are the best California regions for Pinot Noir located?

Answer 6

Those with moderating influences from the coast (see breeze, fog, proximity to coast). Keeps the wine from developing excessively cooked flavors.

Carneros, western parts of Sonoma, Santa Barbara County

Question 7

What are other regions where Pinot Noir is produced?

Answer 7

1. Oregon - northerly latitude and ocean proximity
2. Chile - Casablanca Valley
3. South Africa - Walker Bay
4. Australia - Yarra Valley, Mornington Peninsula
5. New Zealand - Martinborough, Marlborough, Central Otago

Question 8

Which region produces New Zealand’s ripest and most powerfully flavored Pinot Noir? And Why?

Answer 8

Central Otago

The region is protected from sea breezes and rains by a ring of mountains. The vines experience intensely sunny days and cool nights.

Question 9

Which region is known for producing riper wines with cooked red fruit flavors?

Answer 9

Australia - Yarra Valley and Mornington Peninsula