Alsace Pinot Noir, a red wine grape variety originally from France's Burgundy region, is curiously the only red wine allowed to be produced in the otherwise mainly white wine-dominant region of Alsace. This light-bodied variety often comes with surprisingly strong tannins and flavors of cherry, raspberry, and fresh forest fruits.
With a luminous ruby color, it shows characteristically earthy aromatics with hints of strawberry, cherry, and sometimes smoky notes. Alsace Pinot Noir has evolved considerably over the last few decades owing to climate change which has benefited this grape specifically, allowing for riper fruit and more body. The structure and complexity have improved, making not just light and pleasant wines but increasingly serious, rich, and structured wines, often aged in oak barrels.
Although not as renowned as the Alsatian whites, the Alsace Pinot Noir holds a strong position in the region belonging to some of the best examples of the variety outside Burgundy. Given the climatic conditions and terroirs, it has the capacity to produce excellent wines that may age surprisingly well.
These wines are versatile food partners and can accompany a range of dishes from poultry to cheese, making Alsace Pinot Noir an attractive choice for those who prefer lighter-style reds.
