Pinot Noir

Nobody knows where the Pinot Noir variety originated. In 51 BC, when the Romans stomped all over Gaul, vineyards were already established. After their empire disintegrated, the vineyards remained. Over the next two millennia, the varietal was painstakingly nurtured in Burgundy, and through the 20th century it was propagated across the globe. Today it is recognised as one of the most refined, elegant and complex varietals to grace our palates. It is also notoriously difficult to grow well, but from care, patience and labours of love, come life-affirming and often life-altering wines. People take Pinot Noir very seriously and while this earnestness may seem at little odd at first, once you’re hooked you completely understand.

The varietal family tree:Families. We all have them. Eccentrics and prodigals, black sheep and forgotten heroes. But if you think your family is weird, wait till you meet this mob. Meet the Pinot family.