What's So Great About Pinot Noir?

Miles (From Sideways) on why he loves Pinot Noir: "It's a hard grape to grow, as you know. Right? It's uh, it's thin-skinned, temperamental, ripens early. It's, you know, it's not a survivor like Cabernet, which can just grow anywhere and uh, thrive even when it's neglected. No, Pinot needs constant care and attention. You know? And in fact it can only grow in these really specific, little, tucked away corners of the world. And, and only the most patient and nurturing of growers can do it, really. Only somebody who really takes the time to understand Pinot's potential can then coax it into its fullest expression. Then, I mean, oh its flavors, they're just the most haunting and brilliant and thrilling and subtle and... ancient on the planet."

Join Wine Muse hosts, Linda and William, as they talk to passionate winemakers about what makes Pinot Noir the KING of varietals.  

They'll speak to Michael Richmond from Bouchaine Vineyards in the famed Carneros region of California, who has been making Pinot before Pinot was cool.  They'll also speak to world winemaker, Francois Lurton who produces Pinot Noir in Chile and Steve Lutz, making Pinot in Oregon.

Part II Carneros Region, California: Michael Richmond

Part III Northern Willamette Valley, Oregon: Steve Lutz