The grape that demands care and attention, yielding elegance, sophistication, and complexity.
3 minutes read.

It is undoubtedly one of the most famous and widespread red grape varieties in the world, as well as one of the most universally appreciated among tasters and wine lovers – whether for its noble elegance and finesse or for the complexity acquired over time in its finest expressions.

Much like the Sideways effect – a movement led by Miles (Paul Giamatti) in the eponymous 2005 film – this variety has gained prominence in a market driven by the demand for fresher, lighter wines that reflect their terroir.

Its history dates back to 1375, when Duke Philip II (who reigned between 1363 and 1404) sent 2,500 litres of wine made from this grape variety to Belgium for banquets, decreeing that only Pinot Noir should be cultivated, replacing the Gamay vines that were widely planted in Burgundy at the time. Since then, meticulous study and ampelographic mapping of the grape have been carried out over centuries by Cistercian monks to enhance its qualities and understand its adaptability—not only in its native French region but also in other winegrowing regions across the globe, provided the climate meets its demanding conditions.

Pinot Noir is often described as a difficult grape to cultivate, requiring great care and attention. It thrives in cool climates, limestone soils, and slow ripening conditions, which allow it to retain its aroma, character, and freshness. For this reason, in Portugal, it is found in regions such as Lisbon, Bairrada, and Dão, where the grape feels at home, producing elegant wines without over-ripeness. Due to its thin skin, it is particularly sensitive to humid climates and highly susceptible to rot and viruses, demanding greater vigilance and expertise from producers in the Lisbon region. However, its proximity to the sea imparts a unique and unusual salinity to the wines.

Grand Cru Gevrey-Chambertin in the Burgundy region (Côte-d’Or) and the harsh winters to which Pinot Noir is exposed.

This variety exhibits a remarkably wide range of aromas and textures, depending on the terroir and winemaking methods. In red wines from excessively cold climates with low sun exposure, where the grapes fail to reach adequate ripeness, herbaceous characteristics may emerge, including notes of rosemary, white pepper, and green tea. In more moderate climates, the wines reveal delicate aromas of red fruits such as raspberries, strawberries, and cherries, along with floral nuances like rose and violet. As these wines age, they develop more complex aromas, such as damp earth, truffles, dried herbs, leather, and grass.

Considering the Portuguese terroir, Diogo Lopes, winemaker at AdegaMãe and Herdade do Freixo, observes that pinot noir from a vineyard planted on a hillside in Alenquer (inland Lisbon) with greater sun exposure produces wines with more body, intensity, and tannin, compared to another vineyard at AdegaMãe, which benefits from a stronger Atlantic influence and results in fresher fruit, elegance, and higher acidity. A perfect example of this is the AdegaMãe Tinto Atlântico (image below), that results in a light-coloured, delicate, and highly versatile wine—ideal for pairing with light appetisers and fish dishes.

It is also worth highlighting the versatility of this grape variety in the production of other wine styles, such as rosés, sparkling wines, and the renowned Champagnes, where Pinot Noir plays a dominant role in blends, sometimes alongside Pinot Meunier.

If you already share a passion for this variety or are simply curious to discover more about these wines, here are some recommendations that will surely delight you. When it comes to food pairings, for red wines, we suggest duck, roast kid, or any dish where mushrooms take centre stage. We hope you enjoy it!