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Pinot Noir is an ancient variety whose origins can be traced back to the first century AD. It still remains today as one of the most fickle and exasperating grape varieties, so many growers and winemakers avoid the variety. The main problems, even today, are susceptibility to rot, poor clonal selection, viruses, over cropping, low yields, lack of fruit concentration, color and flavor. Many growers refuse to plant it in favor of Merlot or Chardonnay. Due to the irregularity of the variety many wineries refuse to make it. The net result, plantings of Pinot Noir at best are stable. Fortunately the consumer still has confidence for all the misgivings of the variety. Demand for Pinot Noir is increasing and thus the under-supply of the variety. Have faith and keep looking! Successful winemakers work with the variety from the vineyard, with careful attention to clones, yields and sun exposure. Upon entering the winery they will use any and every technique and tactic to make the best product they can. This may include cold soaking, whole cluster fermentation, carbonic maceration, wild yeast, rare cultivated yeasts and an assortment of enzymes to do anything and everything-'kind of like a vitamin pill for the common cold'. A "Pinophile's" wish list; essence of sweet ripe berries, plump red fruits that are spicy in aroma and flavor with velvet mouth-filling tannin for length. |