Pinot Noir: Red or White? The Truth Behind This Iconic Grape

Have you also ever gotten confused with a question, Is Pinot Noir red or white?  It’s a universal question that probably appears in search bars thousands of times each month, and for good reason. With its lighter colour compared to other red wines and its elegant, smooth flavour profile, the truth about this iconic grape often leaves enthusiasts wondering more about Pinot Noir. Whether you're a seasoned Pinot lover or just  scrolling on the internet to buy wine online in Australia, knowing about this elegant varietal will make your drinking more pleasurable.

This simple guide will settle the debate once and for all while exploring everything that makes Pinot Noir one of the most celebrated wines in the world.

What is Pinot Noir?

Pinot Noir is one of the world’s oldest and most beloved grape varieties, originating in France’s Burgundy region over a thousand years ago. Its name hints at its nature, “Pinot” stands as ‘pine’ in French, and “Noir” for its dark skins. Often called the “heartbreak grape,” this elegant grape can sometimes be challenging to grow due to its thin skin and sensitivity to climate, natural disturbances, and weather shifts. But when handled carefully, it produces some of the finest quality and unique expression on the planet.

While Burgundy remains its home name, Pinot Noir wine also excels in cool-climate regions around the world, from California to New Zealand’s Central Otago. Closer to home, it’s thriving in Australia’s cooler zones like Tasmania, the Yarra Valley, and the Mornington Peninsula.

Is Pinot Noir Red or White?

Let's address the main point now: Pinot Noir red or white? The answer is without a doubt, red. Pinot Noir is a red wine made from dark-skinned, black coloured grapes.

The confusion mainly arises because Pinot Noir, though it’s made from dark skinned grapes, shows a lighter and more translucent red colour as compared to fuller ones like Shiraz or Cabernet Sauvignon.

This lighter shade comes from:

• Thinner grape skins with less pigment

• Gentler extraction methods during winemaking

• Traditional techniques that preserve delicate flavours

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So, is it red or white wine? Pinot Noir is definitely a red wine. However, there's an interesting twist: This iconic grape variety can also be used to make white wines, especially in the production of Champagne. During winemaking, when juice is pressed away from skins in an instant, it produces a white wine called "blanc de noirs" (white from blacks).

What colour is Pinot Noir? Think of it as an array of colours, with translucent effects ranging from light ruby to garnet. While aged Pinot Noir evolves brick and dark brown tones, younger Pinot Noir shows bright cherry-red hues.

Is Pinot Noir Sweet or Dry?

Pinot Noir is usually a dry red wine, but its smooth and velvety texture makes it easier on the palate, containing minimal residual sugar (typically 1-3 grams per liter). The perceived "sweetness" comes from:

• Natural fruit flavours (cherries, berries, plums)

• Oak ageing gives vanilla and caramel notes.

• Soft tannins create a smooth mouthfeel.

• Higher alcohol content brings viscosity.

This fruitiness can trick your palate into detecting sweetness, but Pinot Noir is classified as dry in virtually all cases.

Characteristics of Pinot Noir

Pinot Noir possesses a distinctive personality that sets it apart from other red wines. Understanding these characteristics helps explain why it commands such devotion from wine enthusiasts worldwide.

Aroma and Flavour Profile: Another unique aspect of this red wine is the burst of aromas that is often described as the most complex and intriguing of all red wines. Primary fruit flavours include red cherry, raspberry, strawberry, and cranberry. As the wine ages or comes from warmer climates, darker fruit notes like black cherry and plum can also be found.

Body and Texture: Pinot Noir has a smooth, silky texture that glides across the palate and is classified as light to medium-bodied. The wine offers elegance rather than strength in contrast to strong, tannic reds. Even in its youth, the wine is approachable since the tannins are usually light and well-structured. Pinot Noir's versatility and food-friendly nature come from its sophistication..

Acidity: The fresh, sharp acidity of Pinot Noir is one of its unique features. The wine doesn't feel heavy or cloying because of its refreshing taste, which also keeps it vibrant. Pinot Noir's remarkable ageing potential is also defined by its acidity.

Alcohol Content: Many Pinot Noirs range from  12% to 14% alcohol by volume. This is just the average percentage; the ABV can vary depending upon various factors such as climate, winemaking styles, or regional influences. Cooler climate versions tend toward the lower end, while warmer regions may produce wines with higher alcohol levels.

Pairing Pinot Noir With Food

Pinot Noir's versatility at the dining table is legendary, making it one of the most food-friendly wines in the red wine category. Its moderate body, soft tannins, and bright acidity allow it to complement an impressive range of dishes without overwhelming delicate flavours or being overpowered by richer foods.

Classic Pairings:

• Duck (breast or confit)

• Roasted chicken and turkey

• Salmon and fatty fish

• Pork (roasted, chops, bacon)

• Grilled lamb chops

Vegetarian Options:

• Mushroom dishes

• Truffle-infused preparations

• Root vegetables (beets, carrots)

• Mild cheeses (Brie, Camembert, Gruyère)

Asian Cuisine:

• Chinese duck dishes

• Japanese teriyaki

• Korean bulgogi

Pairing Tips:

• Best with grilled, roasted, or sautéed preparations

• Avoid heavy cream sauces or intensely spicy dishes.

• Earthy ingredients and herbs enhance the wine.

Pro Tip: When pairing Pinot Noir, lighter cooking methods like grilling, roasting, and sautéing bring out its best qualities. Heavy braises, stews, rich cream sauces, or intense spice can hide its delicate profile. Earthy items like mushrooms, thyme, rosemary, and dishes with a touch of acidity naturally elevate the wine and create a more balanced, perfect match.

Is Pinot Noir Good for Cooking?

Yes, Pinot Noir makes an excellent cooking wine when used appropriately, though there are some important considerations to keep in mind.

When to Use Pinot Noir in Cooking: The flavours of sauces, braises, and reductions can be exquisitely enhanced by the wine's elegance and depth. It is perfect for deglazing pans, making pan sauces for duck breast, chicken, or pork, and serving as the basis for traditional French sauces due to its fruit-forward flavour and mild tannins. Risotto draws immensely from the depth and lovely pale pink hue that Pinot Noir adds. Its acidity helps soften the meat when braising short ribs, lamb shanks, or pork shoulder.

The Quality Question: "Never cook with wine you wouldn't drink" is a universal piece of advice, and in terms of flavour, this is correct. But you don't have to cook with your best Burgundy. A good mid-range bottle will add delicious flavour without going over budget. Steer clear of "cooking wines" found in supermarkets, as they frequently include added salt and preservatives that could ruin your dish.

Cooking Tips:

• Use decent mid-range bottles (not your finest Burgundy)

• Avoid "cooking wines" with added salt.

• Allow alcohol to cook off completely.

• Reduce the wine by at least half to concentrate flavours.

• Best for lighter dishes where complexity matters

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What temperature should Pinot Noir be served at?

The ideal serving temperature for pinot noir is between 12 and 16°C (55 and 60°F). This is warmer than a typical refrigerator temperature but colder than room temperature. Serving it too cold can mute its complex aroma, while serving it too warm may bring out the alcohol and make the wine taste dry. Before serving, it's a good idea to chill the bottle for about half an hour.

2. Does Pinot Noir need to breathe?

While young wines may require up to an hour of breathing time, most Pinot Noirs benefit from 20 to 30 minutes. Pinot Noir doesn't need a lot of airflow, in contrast to heavy reds. It's usually enough to just open the bottle or pour the wine into glasses. For the sake of their subtle aromatics, older, more delicate bottles should be stored with care.

3. How long can you age Pinot Noir?

While Pinot Noir is enjoyable young, quality examples can age beautifully for 10-20 years or more. High-end Burgundies are known for aging gracefully for decades. However, most New World Pinot Noirs are designed for consumption within 3-7 years. As they age, the bright fruit flavours evolve into more complex notes of earth, leather, and dried fruits.

4. Can Pinot Noir be made into rosé or sparkling wine?

Absolutely. Pinot Noir is one of the primary grapes used in Champagne production and is also made into delicious rosé wines. When pressed gently with minimal skin contact, the juice produces pale pink wines with delicate berry flavours and crisp acidity.

The answer to "Pinot Noir white or red" is crystal clear: With its lighter colour, smooth texture, and complex aromatic profile, Pinot Noir is undoubtedly a red wine. This beautiful variety's elegance, sophistication, and amazing versatility have drawn in people from its ancient Burgundian origins to its modern diverse versions.

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Shop wine online at Just Wines today and know why Pinot Noir has earned its place among the world's most loved wines. Your journey into this iconic red varietal awaits!