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Pinot Noir Grapes

Pinot Noir grapes are one of the oldest grape varieties to be used in the making of wine. The most popular region for growing this grape is Burgundy in France, which is also the only region to have achieved consistent success with the Pinot Noir vine.

This is due to a number of factors; the climate in Burgundy being the main one. The vineyards also slope gently down towards the east which provides the vines with long exposure to the sun while avoiding the afternoon heat. The soil is also very chalky and offers good drainage. The soils are also well drained and have a higher than average temperature which assists in the ripening of the Pinot Noir grapes. This is the perfect climate and region for growing Pinot Noir grapes. (see also History Of Pinot Noir)

Pinot Noir grapes are known for their unstable nature and it has often been the case that the parent vine has produced offspring that bear fruit that are nothing like the parent's in size or shape. They can even have different aromas, flavors and levels of productivity.

Pinot Noir vines are quite tolerant to cold climates but there are particularly susceptible to spring frosts because they tend to grow leaves early in the season. A bug known as the sharpshooter leafhopper is also another threat to Pinot Noir grapes. This bug carries Pierce's Disease which can destroy an entire vineyard in as little as three years.

The Pinot Noir grapes are susceptible to bird attacks and if not picked promptly at maturity these thin-skinned berries will shrivel and dry out quite quickly. Pinot Noir grapes also produce wines that are more difficult to ferment. This can be attributed the presence of eighteen amino acids which are found in Pinot Noir grapes.

Pinot Noir grapes are also grown in New Zealand and America. California and Oregon produce some great Pinot Noir Wines which are both light and fruity. (see Pinot Noir Wine Recommendations)

Are you interested in growing your own grapes at home? If so, I can personally recommend this book by Danie Wium. I recently began growing my own grapes for use in winemaking and this book was an invaluable tool along the way.