Pinot Noir Grapes and Pinot Noir Wine – Guide and Buying Options

Pinot Noir Grapes and Pinot Noir Wine – Guide and Buying Options

Pinot Noir Grapes and Pinot Noir Wine – Guide and Buying Options

Giada Montesi

9

Pinot Noir Grapes and Pinot Noir Wine – Guide and Buying Options

Pinot Noir is one of the most popular grape varieties in the world. With its elegant flavor profile and versatility, Pinot Noir has become a favorite among wine lovers. In this Italovino guide, we explore the Pinot Noir grape, the different wine types produced from it, and where to find the best Pinot Noir offers.

What Is the Pinot Noir Grape?

The Pinot Noir grape originates from Burgundy, France, and is known for its thin skin and delicate flavor notes. In Italy, it is mainly grown in cool-climate regions such as Alto Adige and Lombardy and Oltrepò Pavese (a grape-shaped area at the southern tip of Lombardy).

Pinot Noir regions

Italian Pinot Noir wines are characterized by elegance, with notes of red fruits, spices, and subtle floral hints.

Pinot Noir Wines: Red, White and Rosé

  1. Pinot Nero Red Wine: Italian Pinot Nero red wine is medium-bodied, with fresh acidity and silky tannins. It pairs beautifully with Danish dishes like pork roast, roast duck, and mushroom risotto.

  2. Pinot Noir Sparkling Wine: In Italy, Pinot Noir is also used to produce sparkling wines, especially in Franciacorta, Lombardy. Franciacorta wines are made using the traditional method and can rival Champagne in both quality and complexity.

  1. Pinot Noir Rosé: Pinot Noir grapes are also used to create elegant rosé wines with delicate notes of strawberries and red currants—perfect for summer meals or light appetizers.

Pinot Noir Temperature – The Right Serving Temperature

As a medium-bodied wine with a perfumed aroma (especially when young), it’s important to serve Pinot Noir at the right temperature to fully enjoy its character:
Red Pinot Noir: 12–16°C to highlight fruity aromas and complexity.
Sparkling Pinot Noir: 6–10°C for the best balance of freshness and flavor.
White and Rosé Pinot Noir: 8–12°C to preserve freshness and acidity.

Pinot Noir serving temperature

Pinot Noir for the Christmas Dinner

Italian Pinot Noir pairs wonderfully with traditional Danish Christmas dishes such as pork roast with caramelized potatoes or roast duck with red cabbage. Its fresh acidity balances the rich and intense flavors typical of Danish holiday meals.
We’ve written a full guide on how to choose the best wines for Christmas dinner, and Italian Pinot Noir stands out as one of the most popular choices for Danish holiday food!

Where to Find the Best Pinot Noir Wines?

At Italovino, we select the finest Pinot Noir-based wines from small producers we know personally. Discover our full selection here!
Whether you prefer red, white, or sparkling Pinot Noir, this grape offers something special for every wine lover. Cheers!