Pinot Noir
Pinot Noir is a thin-skinned, highly sensitive red grape variety known for producing elegant, nuanced wines with finesse and complexity. It is prized for its aromatic intensity and ability to express terroir, producing wines that range from light and delicate to more structured and age-worthy styles, depending on climate and vineyard management.
- Originated in Burgundy, France
- Ripening Period: Early season
- Moderate vigor
- Low yield
Preferred Climate
Pinot Noir performs best in a cool to moderate climate, where it can maintain balanced acidity and develop delicate aromas. Too much heat can lead to overripe fruit and flabby wines, while excessively cold sites risk incomplete ripening.
Viticultural Characteristics
Pinot Noir produces small to medium clusters of small, thin-skinned berries, which contribute to low tannin and delicate color. The vine exhibits moderate vigor but is very sensitive to climate, soil, and site selection, making careful canopy management essential. Pinot Noir buds and ripens early, making it susceptible to spring frost and weather variability during harvest. Well-drained soils, moderate fertility, and careful yield control help optimize concentration and aromatic expression.
Wine Profile
Pinot Noir wines are typically light- to medium-bodied with moderate acidity and low to moderate tannins. Aromatically, they display red fruit such as cherry, raspberry, and strawberry, often complemented by floral notes, earthy undertones, and subtle spice. On the palate, the wines are elegant and refined, with a silky texture and persistent, nuanced finish. Cooler climates produce fresher, brighter wines, while warmer sites yield riper, more fruit-forward styles with slightly more structure. Pinot Noir’s hallmark is its balance, elegance, and ability to reflect terroir.
Clones
- FPS 2A - Moderate to high vigor and yield. Medium cluster sizes and small berry size. High producer that produces intense wines when yield is controlled.
- FPS 15 - Moderate vigor and yield.
- FPS 32 - (Researching)
- FPS 37 - Moderate vigor, low yield. Small and tight clusters.
- FPs 38 - (Researching)
- FPS 47 - Low vigor, moderate yield. Small cluster sizes.
- FPS 71 - Equivalent to French clone 777. Moderate vigor, low to moderate yield. Small cluster sizes. Big tannins and deep color.
- FPS 72 - Equivalent to French clone 667. Moderate vigor and yield. Small cluster size.
- FPS 73 - Equivalent to French clone 115. Low vigor, low to moderate yield. Small cluster size.
- FPS 75 - (Researching)
- FPS 90 - (Researching)
- FPS 91 - Originally clone 4 from Pommard, France. Moderate vigor and yield. High tannins, thick skins and high resistance to rot.
- FPS 96 - (Researching)
- FPS 97 - Sourced from Swan. Low vigor and yield.
- FPS 122 - (Researching)
- FPS 123 - Moderate vigor, moderate to high vigor.