Pinot Noir: Chile or Burgundy?
Burgundy, in the east of France, has records of being a wine region since 312 AD. One of its native varieties – Pinot Noir – has the quality of reflecting in its flavor the properties of the soil where it grows, for that reason it is known that Burgundy produces Pinot Noir wines with unique characteristics since it possess ideal attributes to grow the variety: limestone soils, presence of marine fossils, cool weather and good level of sunlight.
The Pinot Noir grape produces most wines in the region and plays an important role in the region’s reputation. Well made wines with this variety are among the most expensive in the world.
In our country, in San Antonio and Casablanca valleys, the Chilean Pinot Noir has managed to grow successfully. This is an extremely sensitive vine, and Chile’s peculiar geography – with elements such as the Andes mountain range, the Pacific Ocean and the Atacama desert – creates barriers that protect it from inclement weather, plagues and diseases.
Characteristics of the Pinot Noir
The Pinot Noir is a whimsical variety and susceptible to diseases, so it requires a lot of care. Its clusters are compact and small, similar to a “black pine”, which gives rise to its name. Its grapes have an intense violet color and very thin skin and deliver a very sweet juic. Its leaves are small, sensitive to wind and frost.
Characteristics of Burgundy wine
The Burgundy Region produces a complex wine. Although their characteristics vary according to the microclimate where the vine was grown, they have certain elements in common. Its color covers a wide range of intense reds such as cherry, garnet and ruby, to violet tones and brick color. They are dry and soft, not too heavy or strong in alcohol.
The set of aromas that accompany it usually reminds the black cherry and currant when they are young, with time they acquire notes of spices -such as pepper and cinnamon-, and others such as coffee and leather.
Characteristics of Chilean Pinot Noir
According to the most recent national wine cadastre, Pinot Noir is one of the 12 most cultivated vine varieties in the country, with more than 4,000 hectares planted. The climate and soil of San Antonio and Casablanca -very similar to the Burgundy region- constitutes the ideal scenario for this strain. In general, the result is a velvety, harmonious wine with a fruity aroma and a low concentration of tannins, with aromas of red fruits – such as strawberries and cherries – in addition to touches of spices that generate a unique experience on the palate.
Finally, it is worth remembering to serve your Pinot Noir is at 14 ° C to fully enjoy all its flavors.