Pinot Nero

Pinot Nero is a red wine grape variety of the species Vitis vinifera. The name may also refer to wines created predominantly from Pinot Nero grapes. The name is derived from the French words for "pine" and "black" alluding to the grape variety's tightly clustered dark purple pine-cone shaped bunches of fruit.

Pinot Nero grapes are grown around the world, mostly in the cooler regions, but the grape is chiefly associated with the Burgundy region of France. It is widely considered to produce some of the finest wines in the world, but is a difficult variety to cultivate and transform into wine.

History

The origins of Pinot Nero can be traced back to the first century A.D. The grape has a long history in the Burgundy region of France and is known for its contribution to the famous Champagne wines.

Viticulture

Pinot Nero is a difficult grape to cultivate. The grape's tendency to produce tightly packed clusters makes it susceptible to several viticultural hazards, and it requires careful handling and winemaking to express its best qualities.

Wine Regions

While Pinot Nero is associated with Burgundy, the grape is also grown in Italy, Germany (where it's known as Spätburgunder), Austria, Switzerland, and the cooler parts of Australia, New Zealand, and the United States.

Wine Styles

Pinot Nero wines are among the most popular in the world. They are praised for their smooth, round texture, complex aromas, and versatility in pairing with a variety of foods.

Food Pairing

Pinot Nero wines are versatile and pair well with a variety of foods. They are particularly well-suited to dishes featuring poultry, pork, and mushrooms.

See Also

• Pinot Gris
• Pinot Blanc
• Chardonnay
• Merlot
• Cabernet Sauvignon