What temp is best for a Pinot Noir? Help!

[Hombre]

I have just recently started drinking wines, but still have so very much to learn.

My most common question is what temperature to drink different wines. Room, chilled...etc. I have a bottle of Pinot Noir 2002. Is it best at room temp or chilled traditionally?

Thanks,

Hombre

[hotwine]

Welcome to the board. I like my Pinot Noirs at about 5 degrees above cellar temp.; in other words, at about 60-62 degrees F.

[Hombre]

Funny you should say that. I went ahead and opened a bottle tonight. Temp was about 63, and it has gone very nice. Thanks for the reply!

[AlpineOeno]

A good question, and you have chosen one of the most difficult varietals to capture at the ideal temperature. Cali Pinots of late have been pushing the envelope for alcohol content and could use a good 60°F chill to temper the alco vapors. However, if you have some Burgundy juice in your glass, the subtleties of the wine tend to be muted at that temperature, and I would say they are better enjoyed closer to 65°F.

Just a note......if you have never tried it, give a bottle the full fridge chill, then crack it open and drink slowly over a few hours. It's a great adventure for your senses to try this at least once, and you'll find that you may have your own ideal "zone" to enjoy wine.