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History Of Pinot Noir

The history of Pinot Noir tells us that it was named after the noble Pinot family who date back to the Roman era. The history of Pinot Noir also shows us that Pinot Noir Grapes were being cultivated in the Burgundy region of France when the Romans invaded Gaul in the first century A.D.

Some say the survival of Pinot Noir Wines actually came down to catholic monks who enhanced its awareness by using it in their sacraments. As the years passed the monks began improving their Pinot Noir wines with lots of experimentation and even more patience. By the sixth century barrels of Pinot Noir wine were being sent to the pope. But, this was disrupted in 1789 because of the French revolution. The seized vineyards were redistributed to surviving family members and were independently run.

Throughout the history of Pinot Noir it is clear that France has always held the world's largest planting of Pinot Noir vines but they have also found homes in other countries such as Germany, Italy, Switzerland, Austria, Hungary, Chile, Australia, South Africa and, of course, California. (see also Sonoma Cabernet Sauvignon and White Merlot)

This history of Pinot Noir in America dates back to the 1930s on the coast of California and the Napa valley (see also Napa Merlot). Pinot Noir wines main use up until the 1980s was for making sparkling wines. And in a quest to produce a better Pinot Noir wine, makers moved further north to Oregon where the Pinot Noir grape has been said to have found its home away from home and is now the most widely planted grape in Oregon.

A great Pinot Noir wine will create a lasting impression on the palate and its aroma can be intense, ripe grape. It is typically a rich, full bodied wine, but not too heavy. Pinot Noir wines are high in alcohol and are neither acidic nor tannic. Most people agree that the most appealing quality of Pinot Noir is its soft velvety texture. This has been true throughout the history of Pinot Noir and is still true today. (see also Pinot Noir Wine Recommendations)