Pinot Noir's body generally ranges from light to medium and is favored for its fresh floral, fruity, earthy and spice aromas. Known for an intense rich red color, Pinot Noir is pleasantly dry, with a flavor profile consisting of cherries, raspberries, mushrooms, clove and hibiscus, among others.

vitis vinifera Pinot Noir grapes are one of the most ancient varieties of domesticated vitis vinifera, the vine that makes the world's most famous wine grapes. Its first known mention of this red wine grape spelled as Pinot (Pineau was another common spelling) in literature dates back to a Burgundian text from 1375.

Across the board, Pinot Noir's higher acidity and more moderate tannins (this is a cooler-climate grape variety, after all) make it both well-suited to drinking on its own and to pairing with a range of foods. Indeed, Pinot Noir is one of the wines that disproves the old adage that red wine pairs best with meat.

What inspired the French to call a grape variety Pinot Noir? You might know that noir means “black” in French, but what does pinot mean? The pinot noir grapes are smaller and come in tight clusters. To the French centuries ago it looked very much like a pine cone.

Pinot Noir means "black pine cone" in French, named for its dark color and compact, conical shape. It isn't known whether Pinot Noir was imported into France or developed in situ from the wild vinifera grapes that grew in Europe before Roman settlement, but it's agreed that Pinot is among the oldest of French grapes.

The grapes used for Pinot Noir have thinner skins than those of other red wines, which results in a lighter-bodied wine. The sophisticated, thin, and delicate notes are what make a Pinot Noir stand out.

Pinot noir is both a grape and the name of the wine varietal consisting solely of such grapes. The name comes from the French word for “pine” (pinot), because the grapes grow in pine cone-shaped clusters, and “black” (noir), a reference to their dark hue.

Resveratrol has been linked to lower risks of cancer, stroke, and heart disease, among other benefits. “Pinot noir has the highest concentration of the highly touted antioxidant resveratrol,” Benjamin Appleby, top sommelier at Abe & Louie's in Boston, told The Daily Meal.

Burgundy, France Pinot Noir is a thin-skinned grape variety that is native to Burgundy, France. Pinot Noir wines are light to medium body and range in style from light and fruity to complex with aging capability. Pinot Noir is produced around the world despite being notoriously difficult to grow.

Burgundy region The world's most sought-after Pinot Noirs are grown deep in the heart of France's Burgundy region, aka the Côte d'Or, or "Golden Slope." Vineyards like Grand Cru and Premier Cru produce highly sought-after red wines of immense structure, elegance, and complexity.

Pinot Noir means "black pine cone" in French, named for its dark color and compact, conical shape. It isn't known whether Pinot Noir was imported into France or developed in situ from the wild vinifera grapes that grew in Europe before Roman settlement, but it's agreed that Pinot is among the oldest of French grapes.

Pinot Noir, and especially Burgundy from France, is some of the most expensive wine on the market.

Pinot noir, with its taste, can be paired with lighter dishes like broiled fish and grilled chicken and heavy stews made with wild mushrooms and richer red meats like filet mignon or a classic steak. It is a beverage you can drink on any occasion; it's great for casual gatherings and official dinners.

The grape dates back to before the first century A.D. After invading France, the Romans noticed Gallic tribes drinking wine made from the native, wild pinot noir grape, stored in wooden casks. The Romans were surprised by the texture and unique flavors of ripe red fruit, cherries, toast and spices.