Jump to content
Jump to search
Chicago's ONLY 1 Hour Delivery!
Phone
(312) 321-9400
Email
uncorkit393@yahoo.com
Map location
393 East Illinois Street, Chicago, IL 60611
DOWNLOAD OUR APP
Mobile
Search
Wine
By Style
Red
White
Rosé & Blush
Champagne & Sparkling
Dessert & Port
Other Wines
By Varietal
Cabernet Sauvignon
Chardonnay
Sauvignon Blanc
Red Blends
Pinot Noir
Pinot Grigio
Rose
Malbec
Merlot
Syrah-Shiraz
By Country
France
Italy
Spain
Germany
Argentina
United States
New Zealand
Greece
Portugal
By Region
Bordeaux
Tuscany
Rioja
Burgundy
Napa Valley
Explore
New Arrivals
Staff Picks
On Sale
All Wine
Spirits
By Type
Vodka
Bourbon
Whiskey
Tequila
Mezcal
Rum
Gin
Brandy
Liqueur
Sake
By Country
United States
France
Ireland
Japan
Italy
Mexico
Explore
New Arrivals
Staff Picks
On Sale
All Spirits
Beer
By Type
IPA
Hard Seltzer
Ale
Lager
Pilsner
Stout
Explore
New Arrivals
Staff Picks
Domestic Beers
On Sale
All Beer
Mixers/Food/Ice
Mixers
Chips/Snacks
Chips
Crackers
Cheese
ICE
Accessories
Party Planning
Gift Bags
Supplies
Glassware
Barware
ICE
Store Info
Store Info
Location & Hours
Notifications
Subscribe to Our Newsletter
My Account
Order History
Blog
Hennessy Pure White Congnac
Tequila Guide
Top Winter Cocktails
Holiday Gift Guide
Learn About Pino Noir Wine
What To Know About Tawny Port
Wine
By Style
Red
White
Rosé & Blush
Champagne & Sparkling
Dessert & Port
Other Wines
By Varietal
Cabernet Sauvignon
Chardonnay
Sauvignon Blanc
Red Blends
Pinot Noir
Pinot Grigio
Rose
Malbec
Merlot
Syrah-Shiraz
By Country
France
Italy
Spain
Germany
Argentina
United States
New Zealand
Greece
Portugal
By Region
Bordeaux
Tuscany
Rioja
Burgundy
Napa Valley
Explore
New Arrivals
Staff Picks
On Sale
All Wine
Spirits
By Type
Vodka
Bourbon
Whiskey
Tequila
Mezcal
Rum
Gin
Brandy
Liqueur
Sake
By Country
United States
France
Ireland
Japan
Italy
Mexico
Explore
New Arrivals
Staff Picks
On Sale
All Spirits
Beer
By Type
IPA
Hard Seltzer
Ale
Lager
Pilsner
Stout
Explore
New Arrivals
Staff Picks
Domestic Beers
On Sale
All Beer
Mixers/Food/Ice
Mixers
Chips/Snacks
Chips
Crackers
Cheese
ICE
Accessories
Party Planning
Gift Bags
Supplies
Glassware
Barware
ICE
Store Info
Store Info
Location & Hours
Notifications
Subscribe to Our Newsletter
My Account
Order History
Blog
Hennessy Pure White Congnac
Tequila Guide
Top Winter Cocktails
Holiday Gift Guide
Learn About Pino Noir Wine
What To Know About Tawny Port
Understanding Pinot Noir
Pinot Noir is often regarded as one of the most challenging grape varieties to cultivate. For starters, it demands very precise growing conditions to thrive. And given its delicate nature and susceptibility to various vineyard and winemaking pitfalls, it’s a grape that can test even the most experienced winemakers.
Yet, despite these challenges, Pinot Noir remains a coveted grape, planted in vineyards all over the world, often at the expense of local varieties that are better suited to the environment. We go into more detail in the article below but feel free to visit
Uncork It! Chicago at 393 East Illinois Street, Chicago, IL 60611
to discover our top Pinot Noir selections. You can also visit
uncorkitchicago.com
or call
(312) 321-9400
.
Pinot Noir Wine: Behind the Bottle
Pinot Noir is produced from Pinot grapes, specifically the variety known as Pinot Noir - one of the oldest and most genetically complex grape varieties.
The grape is renowned for its thin skin, which contributes to both its light color and its sensitivity to environmental conditions. Unlike thicker-skinned grapes like Cabernet Sauvignon, Pinot Noir’s delicate skin makes it highly susceptible to rot, mildew, and various other vineyard hazards.
Growing Pinot Noir is a test of patience and precision. The grape thrives in cooler climates with well-drained soils, and even minor fluctuations in temperature or humidity can affect its growth. This sensitivity to terroir - the combination of soil, climate, and topography - means that Pinot Noir can vary significantly in flavor and quality depending on where it’s grown.
The thin skin of Pinot Noir grapes also results in a wine that is lighter in color compared to other red wines. Pinot Noir color typically ranges from a pale ruby to a deep garnet, depending on factors like the region, vintage, and winemaking techniques. This lighter hue is often seen as a hallmark of Pinot Noir, setting it apart from other more robust red wines.
In addition to its color, the grape’s delicate structure is responsible for Pinot Noir’s nuanced flavor profile, which often includes bright red fruits, earthy undertones, and a subtle floral bouquet. These characteristics make Pinot Noir a highly sought-after wine, despite the challenges it presents both in the vineyard and the winery.
The Winemaking Process: Pinot Noir Techniques and Regional Influences
Pinot Noir Winemaking Techniques
The winemaking process for Pinot Noir typically involves several key steps that emphasize careful handling to preserve the grape’s unique characteristics:
Harvesting:
Pinot Noir grapes are usually harvested by hand to ensure only the best fruit is selected and to minimize damage to the delicate berries. Timing is crucial; the grapes are picked at optimal ripeness to balance acidity and sweetness.
Fermentation:
During fermentation, Pinot Noir grapes are often fermented in small batches. This allows for greater control over the process and helps maintain the wine’s delicate flavors. Cold soaking before fermentation can help extract color and flavor without excessive tannins.
Punch Down vs. Pump Over:
Techniques like punch down (pushing the grape skins into the fermenting juice) and pump over (circulating juice over the skins) are used to manage color and tannin extraction. Pinot Noir typically requires gentle extraction to avoid overwhelming its subtle flavors.
Aging:
Pinot Noir is often aged in French oak barrels, which can impart subtle flavors and textures to the wine. The aging period is usually shorter than for more robust wines, as prolonged aging can overshadow Pinot Noir’s delicate characteristics.
What Does Pinot Noir Taste Like?
Pinot Noir is complex and nuanced. The wine typically offers bright, red fruit flavors such as cherry, raspberry, and strawberry, often accompanied by earthy undertones like mushroom, forest floor, and subtle hints of spice. The floral notes, reminiscent of violets or roses, add an elegant touch to the overall tasting experience.
The region where Pinot Noir is grown plays a significant role in shaping its taste profile. Different climates and soils impart distinctive characteristics to the wine. Burgundy, France, the grape's original home, produces wines with complex flavors, featuring earthy notes and bright red fruit, shaped by the region's diverse soils. California Pinot Noir, from warmer areas like Sonoma County and Santa Barbara, tends to be fruit-forward with hints of spice and oak. Oregon’s cooler climate, particularly in the Willamette Valley, yields Pinot Noir with vibrant acidity and a balance of red fruit and earthy notes. In New Zealand, especially Central Otago and Marlborough, Pinot Noir offers a blend of ripe fruit and vibrant acidity. Australian Pinot Noir from regions like the Yarra Valley is typically fruit-forward with soft tannins and a lighter body.
Is Pinot Noir Dry or Sweet?
Is Pinot Noir sweet? Not typically. Generally, Pinot Noir is a dry wine. During fermentation, the natural sugars in the Pinot Noir grapes are mostly converted into alcohol, resulting in very little residual sugar in the finished wine. This process gives Pinot Noir its dryness. The wine’s dryness, paired with its higher acidity and lower tannin levels, creates a light and refreshing taste. This makes Pinot Noir a great choice for those who enjoy wines that are not sweet.
Pinot Noir vs Cabernet Sauvignon Wine: A Taste Comparison
When comparing Pinot Noir vs Cabernet Sauvignon, the differences are quite distinct. While both are red wines, they cater to different palates. Pinot Noir is known for its lighter body, higher acidity, and more delicate flavors, focusing on red fruits and earthy characteristics. In contrast, Cabernet Sauvignon is typically fuller-bodied, with higher tannins and flavors that lean more towards dark fruits like blackberry, blackcurrant, and plum, often with a bolder presence of oak, tobacco, and leather.
Choosing the Best Pinot Noir: Tips
Understand Your Preferences:
Determine whether you prefer a Pinot Noir that is fruit-forward and rich or one that is more earthy and restrained. This will help narrow down your choices.
Consider the Region:
The origin of Pinot Noir greatly influences its flavor. Burgundy is known for its complexity and subtlety, California offers ripe fruit and spice, Oregon delivers balanced acidity, and New Zealand and Australia provide vibrant fruit and unique characteristics.
Check the Vintage:
Some years are better than others due to weather conditions. Research recent vintages from reputable regions to find quality options.
Look for Reviews and Ratings:
Professional reviews and ratings can provide insight into the quality and characteristics of specific Pinot Noir bottles.
Pair with Food:
Pinot Noir is versatile with food pairings. Consider wines that complement your meal, whether it's a simple roast chicken or a more elaborate dish.
Recommended Pinot Noir Options for Different Occasions
For a Special Occasion:
Meiomi Pinot Noir
Meiomi Pinot Noir
offers a rich, layered profile with flavors of ripe cherry, blackberry, and hints of spice. It’s well-regarded for its smooth texture and balanced acidity, making it a sophisticated choice for celebrations and memorable dinners. Its complexity and refined taste can elevate any special occasion.
Everyday Enjoyment:
Averaen Pinot Noir Willamette Valley
Averaen Pinot Noir
from the Willamette Valley is a great choice for daily enjoyment. It provides a balance of bright red fruit and subtle earthy notes, with a touch of spice. This Pinot Noir is approachable and versatile, making it ideal for a range of meals or casual sipping.
For a Balanced Experience:
19 Crimes The Punishment Pinot Noir
19 Crimes The Punishment Pinot Noir
stands out with its medium body and balanced flavor profile, offering notes of dark cherry, plum, and a hint of vanilla. It’s versatile enough to pair well with a variety of foods, from grilled meats to hearty pasta dishes, making it a reliable choice for many occasions.
For a Unique Twist:
Au Bon Climat Pinot Noir Santa Barbara
Au Bon Climat Pinot Noir
from Santa Barbara offers a unique twist with its bright acidity and complex flavors of cranberry, pomegranate, and subtle oak. The wine’s vibrant character and nuanced profile make it a standout choice for those looking to explore different expressions of Pinot Noir.
Where to Find the Best Pinot Noir
Pinot Noir is all about offering a refined and diverse tasting experience, and at Uncork It! in Chicago, IL, you can explore an impressive selection of Pinot Noir varieties. Whether you’re searching for a classic Burgundy or a vibrant California Pinot, you’ll find exactly what you need.
Visit Uncork It! at 393 East Illinois Street, Chicago, IL 60611
, where our knowledgeable staff can assist you in selecting the perfect bottle. For any questions, call us at
(312) 321-9400
, or check out our website at
www.uncorkitchicago.com
. You can also reach us via email at
uncorkit393@yahoo.com
.