As an expert sommelier and brewer, I can confidently say that Pinot Noir red wine is not sweet. It is a dry wine with very minimal residual sugar content. The term “dry” in the context of wine refers to the absence of sweetness, and Pinot Noir falls into this category.
When we talk about the sweetness of a wine, we refer to the residual sugar left after the fermentation process. During fermentation, yeast consumes the grape sugars and converts them into alcohol. In the case of dry wines like Pinot Noir, the fermentation process continues until most, if not all, of the grape sugars are converted into alcohol. This results in a wine with very low residual sugar levels, typically less than 3%.
Pinot Noir is known for its delicate and nuanced flavors, which are often described as fruity. However, these fruit flavors should not be mistaken for sweetness. The fruitiness in Pinot Noir comes from the grape itself and the fermentation process, not from residual sugar. The wine can exhibit notes of red berries, cherries, and sometimes even a hint of earthiness, but it remains dry on the palate.
Of course, there can be exceptions to the general rule, as winemaking styles and preferences can vary. Some winemakers may choose to leave a slightly higher residual sugar in their Pinot Noir to add a touch of sweetness. However, this is not the norm and is more commonly seen in off-dry or semi-sweet styles of wine.
In my personal experience, I have found that Pinot Noir tends to be more on the dry side. Its light to medium body and subtle flavors make it a versatile and enjoyable wine to pair with a wide range of foods. From roasted chicken to grilled salmon or even mushroom risotto, Pinot Noir's dry nature complements a variety of dishes without overpowering them.
To summarize, Pinot Noir is a dry red wine with minimal residual sugar content. It is not a sweet wine, although it may exhibit fruity flavors that are often mistaken for sweetness. The dryness of Pinot Noir allows its delicate flavors to shine and makes it a versatile choice for food pairings.