Vitis vinifera Pinot Noir - Grape Vine

The 'Pinot Noir' grapevine is a fairly vigorous and productive variety. It produces medium-sized, compact clusters. The small, richly coloured grapes are spherical, with thick skin, dark blue to violet, and covered in abundant bloom. The pulp is meltingly soft. Harvest takes place in October. The 'Pinot Noir' vine is resistant to winter cold and well-adapted to temperate zones.

The wine grape vine (Vitis vinifera) grew wild over 5000 years ago. Its introduction to France for cultivation was done by the Romans. Many hybrids have been developed to vary colours, flavours, and uses. The 'Pinot Noir' vine is a variety originating from Burgundy, listed in the Official Catalog of grape varieties for wine production. It is said to be the great-grandfather of the 'Syrah' grape variety.

A vigorous, woody climbing stem bush, the 'Pinot Noir' vine can reach up to 5 metres (16 feet). Its final shape will depend on the pruning practised. The vine can cling to its support (trellis, espalier) thanks to its tendrils and prefers sunny locations. It has a semi-erect to horizontal habit. It is recommended to train it on wire and trellis it properly. It is indifferent to soil types, not very demanding, but it still prefers clay-limestone soils. It will require careful pruning.
Its finely cut foliage is a deep green in summer, with the edges of the leaves turning red in autumn.

Its flowering in clusters occurs in May, offering tiny white-pink flowers. Its grapes, in medium-sized clusters, ripen in October, depending on the region. The small, richly coloured berries are spherical, with thick skin, dark blue to violet, and covered in abundant bloom. The pulp is melting. When vinified, the 'Pinot Noir' grape variety contributes to the reputation of Burgundy wines. It produces wines with a beautiful colour, a pleasant bouquet, and a lingering taste.

The grapes can be consumed as table fruit, fresh, but also used for making jam, jelly, fruit juice, pastries, and of course, wine after vinification.