As an expert sommelier and brewer, I am often asked about the quality of French Pinot Noir. The answer to this question is not as straightforward as one might think. Pinot Noir is a grape variety that is notoriously difficult to grow and make into wine, and this is especially true in France, where the grape is grown in many different regions.
One of the most famous regions for Pinot Noir in France is Burgundy. Burgundy is known for producing some of the most sought-after and expensive wines in the world, and Pinot Noir is the predominant grape variety grown there. The wines from Burgundy are often described as elegant, complex, and delicate, with flavors of red fruits, earth, and spice. They can be quite expensive, but for many wine enthusiasts, the quality and uniqueness of Burgundy Pinot Noir make it worth the price.
Another region in France that is known for its Pinot Noir is the Champagne region. While Champagne is primarily known for its sparkling wines, Pinot Noir is one of the three grape varieties used in the production of Champagne, along with Chardonnay and Pinot Meunier. Pinot Noir adds structure, body, and red fruit flavors to Champagne, and some of the finest examples of Champagne are made predominantly from Pinot Noir grapes.
Outside of Burgundy and Champagne, Pinot Noir is also grown in other regions of France, such as the Loire Valley, Alsace, and the Jura. These regions produce a wide range of styles of Pinot Noir, from light and fruity to rich and full-bodied. The quality of Pinot Noir from these regions can vary, but there are certainly some excellent wines to be found.
That being said, Pinot Noir is not for everyone. Its lighter body and more subtle flavors can be a turn-off for those who prefer big, bold, and fruit-forward wines. Additionally, the finicky nature of the grape means that there can be a wide variation in quality from vintage to vintage, and even within the same vintage from different producers.
French Pinot Noir can be excellent, but it is a grape that requires immense care when growing and making. Its distinct characteristics, flavors, and color make it a grape that has connoisseurs split in half – it's a grape that you either love or you don't. Regardless of which side of the fence you're on, Pinot Noir is a great variety that offers a unique and complex drinking experience.