Pinot Noir presents both the ultimate challenge and the ultimate reward to both grape growers and winemakers. At their best, Pinot Noir grapes produce rich and complex wines, tasting of black cherries, red berries, earth and spice, with an aroma that's been likened to everything from herbs and cola to bacon and roses. They can be high alcohol, light in color and low in tannin, although oak aging can increase the tannin levels. One of the most exciting developments in the world of wine is the recent advances Oregon and California winemakers have made in producing world class Pinot Noirs, respectable rivals to the legendary reds of French Burgundy. At their best there is no wine in the world that can offer more seductive, velvety, complex flavors than a fine Pinot Noir.
