The Unexpected Rise of Pinot Noir in the Buckeye State
Nestled in the heart of America's heartland, Ohio might not be the first place that comes to mind when you think of Pinot Noir. Yet this versatile grape has found a surprising foothold in the Buckeye State, carving out a niche for itself with a compelling story.
Unlike Oregon's Pinot Noir journey, which began with a targeted vision, Ohio's story is more one of happy accidents and experimentation. Winemaking in Ohio has a long history dating back to the early 19th century, but it primarily focused on hardier grapes like Concord and Catawba. However, in the latter half of the 20th century, a new generation of winemakers emerged, eager to explore the potential of cool-climate grapes like Pinot Noir.
The key to Ohio's Pinot Noir success lies in its unique geography. The state straddles several climate zones, with the northern regions bordering on the cooler Great Lakes climate. This provides the cool temperatures and moderate rainfall that Pinot Noir thrives on. Additionally, the rise of sophisticated viticulture techniques like canopy management and proper site selection has allowed growers to optimize grape quality.
While Ohio Pinot Noir might not be as widely known as its counterparts from California or Oregon, it's slowly gaining recognition for its distinct character. Ohio Pinots tend to be lighter-bodied and more fruit-forward compared to their West Coast cousins. They often showcase vibrant flavors of red cherry, cranberry, and raspberry, complemented by earthy notes and a refreshing acidity. This lighter style makes them incredibly food-friendly, pairing well with a variety of dishes.
The future of Ohio Pinot Noir is bright. As wineries continue to refine their techniques and experiment with different clones and growing practices, we can expect to see even more exciting expressions emerge. So, next time you're looking for a delicious and unexpected Pinot Noir, consider giving an Ohio bottle a try. You might be surprised by the hidden gem waiting to be discovered.
Looking for a good affordable example? Try this one!
2021 Debonné Vineyards
Pinot Noir
Grand River Valley, Ohio
Debonné Vineyards began in 1916 when Anton Debevc, a Slovenian immigrant, purchased a fruit farm in Madison, Ohio. Over three generations, the Debevc family transformed it into Ohio's largest estate winery, renowned for its world-class standards. Today Debonné continues to garner acclaim, with their premium wines consistently winning awards across the country.
This is a bright, fresh style of Pinot. It offers aromas of black cherry, blackberry, plum, and dark chocolate, with vibrant acidity and velvety smooth tannins. Pair this wine with pork, rabbit, lamb, flavorful salmon dishes, and anything with mushrooms.
