Pinot Noir

Pinot Noir is the red grape of Burgundy. This thin-skinned varietal has small berries and compact clusters that can be difficult to ripen. The varietal is very susceptible to rot and other vineyard problems. It grows best in cooler climates and tends to ripen earlier than heartier red varietals. Pinot Noir typically produces a very light-colored wine, as it lacks many of the key compounds needed for rich color extraction during fermentation. Typical characters associated with Pinot Noir are strawberry, raspberry, cherry, and other light fruit flavors. It is also renowned for developing a gamey, mushroom and truffle/forest floor character. Pinot Noir is one of the main varietals, along with Chardonnay, used in the production of Champagne and sparkling wine.

Pinot Noir mutates quite easily and has more clones than any wine grape. Four common Pinot Noir clones are:

• 115: This is one of the main Pinot Noir clones in California. It commonly is used as a stand alone clone or the major component in different clone blends. This clone is known for darker color development, good tannin structure, and a pleasing bouquet.
• 777: This clone is known for producing darker color. Smooth mouthfeel is also considered to be one of its characters.
• 667: This clone is known for having somewhat angular clusters and a firm tannin structure in the mouth. It tends to show more light fruit characters like cherry.
• Pommard: This clone is known for expressing the gamey character of Pinot Noir.