Several years ago the popularity of the movie, Sideways, renewed interest in the famous grape that had been overlooked by many wine drinkers. Those who typically reach for a Cabernet, Merlot, or even a Chardonnay at the wine store should consider an easy drinking, food-friendly Pinot Noir produced in the New World.
New World Regions for Growing Pinot Noir
Those in the wine trade refer to any grape-growing region outside Europe as “New World.” Critics and wine enthusiasts alike agree that many countries produce wines made from the Pinot Noir grape that rival those of Old World Burgundy. Chief among them are New Zealand (especially in Martinborough on the North Island and Central Otago on the South Island) and the United States. The state of Oregon has a stellar reputation for tasty Pinots, due partly to a climate similar to that of Burgundy. California is the other main U.S. resource for good Pinot Noir, with vineyards stretching up and down the Golden State. Classic Pinot Noir areas are Santa Barbara County (featured in Sideways) and Sonoma County, especially within the Russian River Valley where the cooling ocean fog contributes to ideal growing conditions.
The Two Basic Styles of Pinot Noir
Two New World styles of Pinot Noir predominate, depending on the philosophy of the winemaker and the quality of grapes Mother Nature provides. One is a richer, concentrated, more opulent style, with dark fruit flavors and aromas. The other is fresher, lighter, and more vibrant, with cherry and strawberry nuances. Neither style is heavy in oak or tannins like some other reds. Wine drinkers need to experiment and decide which style they prefer, then let that decision guide their purchases.
A Red Wine with Fish
The good level of acidity and medium body of a typical Pinot Noir allows it to match up well with a variety of food. Try it with roast chicken, roast beef and prime rib, turkey, pork tenderloin, mushroom dishes, and beef bourguignonne. The wine is also able to bend the long-standing “rule” that suggests drinking only white wine with fish; grilled salmon is the reason. They match well with each other not only because the rich, fatty fish can easily overwhelm a light-bodied (white) wine, but also because they simply taste good together. For white wine drinkers who shy away from reds, this scenario highlights a key point about Pinot Noir: the generally mild and fruity wine is a great choice for those wanting to experience red wine for the first time. Hopefully they and others will learn that one does not have to visit the Burgundy aisle at the wine store to find a good bottle.
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