Pinot Noir is one of the most beloved red wines in the world. Known for its elegant structure, complex flavors, and versatility, it has gained a devoted following among wine enthusiasts. Whether you’re a seasoned connoisseur or a newcomer to the world of wine, Pinot Noir is a varietal that can be enjoyed in many forms, from lighter, fruit-forward styles to more robust, earthy versions.
This article will explore twelve of the most popular Pinot Noir wines, taking a deep dive into their tasting notes, history, and ideal pairings. But before we delve into the specific wines, it’s worth noting how Pinot Noir stands out from other red wines, such as its cousin, Pinot Grigio.
Pinot Noir is a finicky grape, requiring a specific climate to thrive, which is why it is most commonly found in cooler regions. Its thin skin leads to a wine that can be delicate, with flavors ranging from bright red fruit to deeper, more earthy tones. But even though it’s considered a challenging grape to grow, it has found success in numerous wine regions around the world, including Burgundy in France, California, Oregon, and New Zealand.
When comparing Pinot Noir with Pinot Grigio, it’s clear that both wines have their own unique appeal. While Pinot Grigio tends to be a light and crisp white wine, Pinot Noir offers a more structured, red wine experience. The Pinot Grigio wine taste is often described as refreshing with citrus and green apple notes, which is a stark contrast to the fruit-forward but earthy profile of Pinot Noir.
Throughout this article, we’ll look at some of the most sought-after Pinot Noir wines. But first, let’s explore the appeal of Pinot Grigio as a wine to appreciate in its own right, as it shares some interesting characteristics with Pinot Noir, particularly in terms of versatility when it comes to wine pairing.
12 Popular Pinot Noir Wines to Try
1. Domaine de la Romanée-Conti, Romanée-Conti
Considered by many to be the pinnacle of Pinot Noir, Domaine de la Romanée-Conti is a legendary Burgundy wine producer. The Romanée-Conti vineyard is regarded as one of the best locations for Pinot Noir in the world. Wines from this vineyard are known for their depth, complexity, and long aging potential. Expect aromas of red fruit, spices, and earthy undertones, with a silky texture that evolves in the glass.
2. Joseph Drouhin, Côte de Nuits-Villages
Joseph Drouhin is another renowned name in Burgundy, producing exceptional Pinot Noir wines. The Côte de Nuits-Villages is an excellent expression of the region’s terroir, offering a balance of red berry fruit and earthy nuances. The wine is approachable yet still has the depth and character expected from high-quality Burgundy Pinot Noir.
3. Domaine Serene, Evenstad Reserve Pinot Noir
Produced in Oregon’s Willamette Valley, Domaine Serene’s Evenstad Reserve is a fantastic example of New World Pinot Noir. It showcases the region’s cool climate, with vibrant acidity and layered flavors of cherry, raspberry, and subtle oak. This wine has earned numerous accolades for its consistency and elegance.
4. Kistler Vineyards, Pinot Noir
Located in California’s Sonoma Coast, Kistler Vineyards is known for crafting high-end Pinot Noir wines. The Kistler Pinot Noir is rich yet balanced, with ripe red fruit flavors complemented by hints of spice and oak. It has a smooth finish that makes it a crowd-pleaser among wine lovers.
5. Lafon, Meursault Pinot Noir
From the Burgundy region, this Pinot Noir has the signature freshness and purity that the region is famous for. It combines subtle fruit flavors with earthy undertones and a smooth texture, making it a great representation of classic Burgundy Pinot Noir.
6. Cloudline Pinot Noir
A value-driven option from Oregon, Cloudline Pinot Noir offers great quality for its price. The wine is fruit-forward with notes of cherry and strawberry, balanced by a hint of spice. It’s an approachable and versatile Pinot Noir that pairs well with a variety of dishes.
7. Clos de Tart, Grand Cru Pinot Noir
This Grand Cru from the Côte de Nuits is one of Burgundy’s most iconic Pinot Noirs. Clos de Tart is known for its intense concentration of flavors, with layers of red fruit, floral notes, and a touch of earthiness. This wine is exceptional and has aging potential that allows it to develop even more complexity over time.
8. Bouchard Père et Fils, Volnay
Bouchard Père et Fils is a prestigious name in Burgundy, and their Volnay Pinot Noir is a true expression of the region’s elegance. This wine offers red berry flavors with hints of spice and subtle earthiness, all wrapped in a silky texture. It’s a classic example of Burgundy Pinot Noir at its best.
9. DeLoach Vineyards, Russian River Valley Pinot Noir
DeLoach Vineyards is a standout producer from California’s Russian River Valley. Their Pinot Noir showcases vibrant red fruit flavors like raspberry and pomegranate, complemented by a touch of oak and earthiness. This wine has great acidity and structure, making it a perfect choice for food pairings.
10. Beaux Frères, Willamette Valley Pinot Noir
Beaux Frères is a top producer in Oregon’s Willamette Valley. Their Pinot Noir is rich with dark fruit flavors and hints of spice, balanced by vibrant acidity. The wine has a smooth texture and is known for its aging potential, making it a great choice for collectors.
11. Gary Farrell Vineyards, Pinot Noir
Located in the Russian River Valley, Gary Farrell Vineyards produces elegant and complex Pinot Noir wines. Their expression of the varietal is fruit-forward, with a balance of red fruit, oak, and earthy characteristics. It’s a wine that can be enjoyed now or aged for further complexity.
12. Duckhorn Vineyards, Migration Pinot Noir
Duckhorn Vineyards is famous for its high-quality wines, and their Migration Pinot Noir is no exception. This wine features rich cherry and raspberry flavors, with hints of spice and a smooth, velvety finish. It’s a great choice for those seeking a well-rounded, approachable Pinot Noir.
Conclusion
Pinot Noir is a complex and versatile grape that produces some of the most sought-after wines in the world. From the legendary producers in Burgundy to emerging stars in Oregon and California, there are countless expressions of this wine to explore. The twelve wines featured here are just a glimpse of the incredible range of Pinot Noir available to wine lovers today.
As you explore Pinot Noir, it’s also worth noting the similarities it shares with Pinot Grigio wine pairing options, as both wines offer balance and versatility. Whether you’re new to Pinot Noir or a seasoned aficionado, there’s always something new to discover in this classic red wine.
You Might Be Interested In:
