Pinot noir: so hard to grow, easy to enjoy

PINOT noir grapes are highly sensitive to climate, soil, weather, fungal infections, mildew... the list goes on.

- by Matt Nixson

Even after harvesting, minor changes in fermentation can dramatically affect the finished wine. Which makes it a little surprising that such snowflake grapes are responsible for one of the world's most popular wines especially when producers are often forced by financial constraints to concentrate on vines that best suit climate and surroundings.

But what makes pinot noir a winner is the results. Because it's so sensitive, its wines have a massive range of flavours, bouquets and textures and thrillingly reflect the terroir and climate of where they are grown.

Its traditional home is France's Burgundy region but, with a strong preference for cooler climates, it's cultivated successfully in Germany, Chile, Eastern Europe and New Zealand - where it's far and away the main Kiwi red wine variety.