Pinot Nior History

Pinot Noir is considered one of the oldest grape varieties used for making wine. Pinot Noir’s history dates all the way back to the Roman Empire. The Romans enjoyed the wines produced from Pinot Noir and brought it along with them wherever they conquered – the most notable and traditional origin being Burgundy, France. 

This thin-skinned grape is very finicky. Its pinecone-shaped bunches are prone to disease and rot, which can be brought on by too much water or too little water (sounds like some houseplants, right?). Pinot Noir is also very sensitive to it’s growing conditions. Like all grapes, it requires adequate sunlight, but too much sun and heat can cause them to shrivel up like raisins. 

Due to its sensitive growing conditions, growers kept detailed records of their vineyards and how the wine reflected its environment. They described exactly how, and exactly where vines thrived or withered — and how the wines tasted. This gave way to the concept of “terroir”. 

Despite the painstaking efforts of growing Pinot Noir, you will find vines planted all around the world today - particularly in intermediate climates with long, cool growing seasons. Notable regions include France, California, Oregon, Germany, Italy, Chile, and New Zealand just to name a few!