Photo by VIVC - Vitis International Variety Catalogue
Description
Pinot Noir is the red grape of Burgundy, also known as Blauburgunder in Austria and Spätburgunder in Germany. It is best suited to temperate climates and clay-limestone soils. Its bunches and berries are very small to small. In good conditions it makes red wines of great finesse and complexity that can age well, although the colour is often light. It is also a key base wine for Champagne-style sparkling wines. It ripens early.
Characteristics
Black wine grape; very small to small, compact bunches; small berries; light-coloured, fine red wine; early ripening (late August to September); best in temperate climates; low to moderate vigour preferred; sensitive to heat; berries shrivel when overripe; sensitive to downy mildew, grey rot and other main diseases
Growing Tips
Pinot Noir is a delicate vine: it is sensitive to the main grape diseases, especially downy mildew and grey rot, so it needs a consistent spray routine and an open canopy. Remove surplus shoots carefully in spring. It does best with moderate vigour and a limited crop. In hot spells it ripens fast and berries soon shrivel, so watch harvest timing.