Searching for the perfect Pinot Noir is akin to the quest for the Holy Grail. It is one of the oldest grapes known to man and was first documented in its spiritual home of Burgundy in 1345.
This heartbreak of a grape literally demands dedication, a dose of patience and soul from its handler as it is not the easiest grape to cultivate. Here within lies dilemma, Pinot Noir performs best in moderate to cooler climates, it ensures vibrant acidity with its characteristic fresh red fruits. However, cooler to moderate climates often present humidity and mildew/rot issues and that just does not sit well with the precious thin-skinned Pinot.
It can and sometimes is grown in a warmer climate, in fact a lot of the general populous love that plush and jammy style that a warmer climate will offer, but then you taste and wonder, where did the Pinot go?
With careful handling and under the guidance of experienced hands, this grape can produce wines that are somewhat ethereal in nature. The sheer elegance of a well-made Pinot Noir from a balanced vintage is something to revel in. As a grape it offers naturally fresh acidity with typical red fruits (red and black cherry, strawberry and plum) often a hint of violet and with age can develop complex earthy aromas and spice. The tannins are never too astringent making it a great wine to be enjoyed on its own and will pair beautifully with meatier fishes such as salmon and tuna. Oak ageing will help lend structure but is best used judiciously as to not overpower the delicateness of Pinot.
Pinot Noir is now the second most planted red grape in the Okanagan by acreage, there was an 80% surge in plantings from 2006-2014. It is a grape that is really starting to shine for BC and it just happens to pair brilliantly with BC salmon. Join us in celebrating International Pinot Noir Day on August 18, as there is a pretty, precious Pinot out there for everyone!
Olivier Leflaive Bourgogne – $39.99
Heralding from its spiritual home and from one of the top producers in Burgundy. This shows classic Burgundian style in its elegance matched with fresh acidity. Red fruits mix with violet and nuances of mushroom and a hint of oak lend to the palate.
Moraine Reserve Pinot Noir – Regular $32.99 on sale for August @ $24.98
Grapes were hand-harvested from the Sophia Estate Vineyard on Naramata Bench for this classic Pinot Noir. A velvety mid-weight style that offers nuances of violet, Bing cherry and plum layered over a background of subtle toasty oak on a silky palate. Pair with grilled salmon to celebrate International Pinot Noir Day this August 18th.
JAK’s Friends Pinot Noir – $31.99
Chris Carson from Meyer Family Vineyards crafted this complex style using minimal intervention sourcing grapes from a blend from 5 vineyards from Naramata Bench to Okanagan Falls. The wild ferment shows through on the long savoury finish. A medley of fruits with red and black cherry, strawberry and plum is complimented with vibrant acidity and subtle yet present tannins.