Pinot Noir
Pinot Noir
At Vino Al Lago, we are always fascinated about how the same fruit can vary so much in flavors and structure. We thought it would be fun and eye-opening to showcase the profiles of the four grapes used in the 2012 Vintage...Interesting Notes About Pinot Noir
Where did it come from?
Pinot Noir is the “father” to many of the popular, black-colored grapes known today. It has over 100 mutated clones. Its popular “grand-sons and grand-daughters” are Syrah, Gamay, Lagrein. Its closest relative known (“aka sister”) is Savagnin -- both were born as crossed mutations in the French Alps region of Jura.
What does it taste like?
The grape is almost always dominated by red fruits -- cherries, strawberries, and/or raspberries. In the cooler climates such as Santa Rosa Valley, California and Burgundy, France, it showcases a turned-soil earthy tone.
What is its make-up?
It is a thin-skinned variety with a very high natural acidity. The thin skins require that it is grown in a cooler coastal or a higher-elevation region. The high acid levels help the grape create wines that can age a very long time.
