Pinot nero / Pinot noir / Blauburgunder

Worth the effort

Pinot nero (Pinot noir) is one of the greatest grapes in the wine world – and also one of the most difficult: it needs a cool climate, but at the same time it is extremely susceptible to weather. Its home is in Burgundy. It is known as Pinot noir in France, Spätburgunder in Germany, Blauburgunder in Switzerland, and Pinot nero in Italy.

Where it grows:

• In Italy, it is used to press high-quality spumante, for example in Franciacorta

• in Northern France: Burgundy, Champagne, Alsace

• in Germany, Switzerland, Austria and South Tyrol

• in the cool-weather regions of the New World, such as Northern California or New Zealand

What it tastes like:

• fragrant and delicate with hints of cherries and berries as well as an enchanting fruity sweetness

• Upon maturity it develops complex notes of leather, undergrowth and truffle

What it goes with:

• lamb

• roasted poultry

• with its woody notes, it is the ideal accompaniment to mushroom dishes

• cheese platters

• ...and in general it is a fabulous companion to food – Pinot noir even pairs well with white meat and fish!