Celebrate International Pinot Noir Day with Top Picks

International Pinot Noir Day, celebrated on August 18 each year, offers a perfect opportunity to explore the versatility of this esteemed grape. While red wine enthusiasts may not immediately think of Pinot Noir for summer barbecues, its refreshing acidity and elegant profile make it an excellent choice for outdoor dining. From grilled salmon to chicken, Pinot Noir can complement a variety of robust dishes while enhancing the summer cookout experience.

Top Pinot Noir Selections

When discussing Pinot Noir, the conversation naturally begins in the esteemed Burgundy region of France. The Louis Jadot 2022 Couvent des Jacobins Bourgogne exemplifies the classic style of Burgundy. Priced at $39.99 (SKU: #341875), this wine presents an engaging blend of red fruit, cedar, and floral aromas. It balances a suave texture with a grippy finish, leaving a lingering note of herbs. This Burgundy is a delightful accompaniment to grilled salmon, making it a strong contender for summer dining.

Another noteworthy choice is the Undurraga 2023 Sibaris Gran Reserva Pinot Noir from Chile. Offered at $19.99 (SKU: #761205), this wine benefits from the cooler microclimate of the Leyda Valley, influenced by the nearby Pacific Ocean. This ruby-hued Pinot Noir presents an inviting array of berry, herb, and toasty oak aromas. Its juicy and fruit-forward character, combined with a hint of spice, results in a lengthy finish that pairs beautifully with grilled chicken or pork.

For those seeking a local option, the SpearHead 2023 Cuvée Pinot Noir from British Columbia is a standout. Priced at $46.00 and available through the winery, this wine highlights the region’s potential for producing quality Pinot Noir. SpearHead has dedicated approximately 80 percent of its vineyard to this grape variety. The Cuvée offers a robustly elegant profile, with a silky texture complemented by notes of forest floor and spice, concluding with a satisfying finish. It pairs wonderfully with steak tacos, adding a unique twist to traditional pairings.

Join the GranVino Wine Walk

Wine enthusiasts looking to indulge further can participate in the inaugural GranVino Wine Walk on August 16, 2023. Organized by the South Granville Business Improvement Association (BIA), this event runs from 11:00 to 19:00 and invites participants to explore 20 local boutiques, galleries, and showrooms from Granville Bridge to 16th Avenue. Each venue will feature a unique wine selection curated by local experts, along with exclusive promotions and giveaways.

The public plaza at Granville and 13th Avenue will transform into a lively wine garden, complete with a DJ and games. Tickets are available for $75 (plus fees) and include a limited-edition GranVino tasting cup and tote bag. For more details, visit southgranville.org/granvino.

As International Pinot Noir Day approaches, these selections and events highlight the wine’s adaptability and charm, inviting everyone to raise a glass in celebration.