5 characteristics of a quality Pinot Noir
Pinot Noir has unique and challenging characteristics, which we invite you to know below.
- Temperature
Some may say that this strain shouldn’t be served too hot or too cold. The exact recommendation that most awakens the qualities of Pinot Noir wine is to serve it at 14 °C. We are talking about a beverage that is drunk cold, so it is necessary to keep it in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours or 15 minutes in the freezer, so that it reaches the balance between aroma and flavor.
- Texture and flavor
Pinot Noir wines are among the light colored red wines and have an alcohol content of 12 to 14 percent. In relation to texture and flavor, it is grouped among light red wines, unlike heavier ones such as Zinfandel or Merlot. It is an elegant wine, very fruity, with marked notes of red fruits, earthy spices such as truffles or leather and aromas of the forest floor.
A good example of this variety is the Sparkling Rosé, which on the nose we can distinguish notes of raspberry, cherry with creamy touches. While in the mouth it is fresh, persistent with good acidity and balanced.
- Type of grape
Among the 16 most planted wine grape varieties, Pinot Noir ranks number 10, being one of the Chilean grapes most valued internationally. Due to its balanced combination of altitude and sea, in Chile this variety is distinguished by its expressiveness, freshness and elegance.
These are very tight clusters, shaped like a pine cone, hence the name it receives. Unfortunately it is very prone to fungi and pests, as it has a very thin skin and is very sensitive to heat. That is also why it grows best in cold climates.
- Places of cultivation
Pinot Noir grapes are grown in many countries and areas that have achieved good reputations for their harvests. The main producers are France, Germany, the United States, Australia and Chile.
Specifically in the United States, the Willamette Valley in Oregon, the Central Coast and the Russian River area in California, are the famous places for providing this wine. The same fame runs for Tasmania and the Yarra Valley in Australia.
- Pairing
Pinot Noir wines can be accompanied by poultry such as duck and chicken, fish such as tuna and salmon, and soft and semi-soft cheese. Pork and mushrooms also harmonize very well with this variety.
We can say that Pinot Noir is very versatile to pair, as it has a high acidity and a medium-low level of tannins. The important thing is to always find the balance between food and wine, to enjoy each of the flavors that emerge on the palate.
Organic Pinot Noir wine
Those looking for organic Pinot Noir wine can find it in the organic range of Viña Cono Sur. In fact, the first vines of this variety were planted in the Colchagua Valley, where Cono Sur was born. Due to its cool climate, during the 60s this area was considered the ideal place for this grape.
Today, with a whole history and winemaking tradition, Cono Sur has an emblematic variety and seeks to fulfill the objective of producing the best Pinot Noir in the country.