What are the different Pinot Noir blends?
Pinot Noir is usually bottled as a single grape, so true Pinot Noir blends are uncommon. The best-known blend is Champagne, where it is combined with Pinot Meunier and Chardonnay. Some cheaper still wines add Syrah, Merlot or other varieties, and in the US up to 25 percent of other grapes can be added to a Pinot Noir without being named on the label, according to VinePair.
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What are the different Pinot Noir blends?
Pinot Noir is mostly sold as a single-variety wine, because producers see blending as diluting its character. The blends that do exist are limited.
| Blend | Where |
|---|---|
| Pinot Noir, Pinot Meunier, Chardonnay | Champagne and similar sparkling wines |
| Pinot Noir with Syrah, Merlot or others | Some inexpensive still red wines |
| Pinot Noir with Cabernet Sauvignon | Blends mentioned by VinePair |
Why is Pinot Noir rarely blended?
VinePair explains that it is difficult and costly to grow, needing specific soils, sun exposure and often a cool climate, and it is sensitive to rot, frost and heat. It is usually bottled alone to show its character.
Is a Pinot Noir wine always 100 percent Pinot Noir?
Not always. In the US, up to 25 percent of blending grapes can be added to a wine labeled Pinot Noir without appearing on the label, according to VinePair. Other countries have their own rules, so look for the wine’s origin and read the producer’s notes. If you want a pure Pinot Noir, buy from a producer or appellation that states 100 percent.
What about sparkling and rose?
Pinot Noir is one of the three main grapes in Champagne, with Chardonnay and Pinot Meunier. It is also used in other sparkling wines and rose, but each producer chooses the grapes, so check the label.
How should you choose?
- For classic Pinot Noir taste, pick a wine labeled as a single variety from a known Pinot region.
- For a heavier, fruitier red, a cheap blend with Syrah or Merlot may be what you get. Read the back label.
- For sparkling wine, look for blanc de noirs (made from black grapes) or a traditional-method cuvee.
Which regions are known for Pinot Noir?
Burgundy in France, Oregon and California in the US, and New Zealand are well-known Pinot regions. Regional rules about blending differ, so check each appellation’s rules.
People also ask
What grapes are blended with Pinot Noir?
In Champagne, Pinot Meunier and Chardonnay. Some cheaper still wines add Syrah, Merlot or Cabernet Sauvignon.
Why is Pinot Noir not often blended?
It is hard to grow and producers prefer to show its character on its own.
Can a wine labeled Pinot Noir contain other grapes?
In the US, up to 25 percent of other grapes can be added without appearing on the label, per VinePair.
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