National Pinot Noir Day is August 18th and we are giving you a breakdown of everything you need to know about this great wine.
What grape is used to make Pinot Noir?
Pinot Noir is made from a red varietal called Vitis Vinifera which translates to “pine” and “black”. The grapes are a pine-cone shape and appear almost black in colour. They are thin-skinned and are native to Burgundy, France.
In order to grow these sensitive grapes, they do best in cooler climates (Lake Erie North Shore appellation and South Islands sub-appellation) where they can be handled delicately. Oftentimes, warmer weather can reduce the traits that make Pinot Noir everything you’ve come to love. Even though some people say that these grapes are difficult to grow and the wine is difficult to make, you can find it produced globally.
What does it taste like?
This particular wine can range from light to medium bodied and can have flavours that vary from light and fruity (Bella Sparkling Pinot Noir Rosé VQA) to a little more complex (Pinot Noir VQA). Since this wine has such diversity, you can find some with notes of cherry and lemon while others have notes of tobacco and leather. You are bound to find a Pinot Noir you love.
When it comes to pairing this wine with certain dishes, you want to ensure it is served a bit cooler than room temperature. Since we have wines that are classified as a sparkling Pinot Noir, such as our Bella Red Sparkling VQA, you can serve these chilled. As for the foods you would want to pair this wine with, here are a few examples below:
Pinot Noir VQA + Garlic Parmesan Turkey Meatballs
Pinot Noir Reserve VQA + Chicken & Mushroom Risotto
Nest Pinot Noir + Beef Tenderloin with Garlic & Herb Butter
Bella Pinot Noir Sparkling Rosé VQA + Cranberry-Pinot Noir Chicken Roast
Whether you’re looking for a light wine for summer or a full-bodied wine for the fall, a Pinot Noir is a great choice.