Originating in the idyllic vineyards of Burgundy, Pinot Noir is a grape capable of producing some of the world’s finest wines (we hear Domaine de la Romanée Conti is pretty decent). With its thin skin and delicate juice, Pinot Noir often produces lighter, elegant red wines that are vibrant and expressive in their youth, but equally capable of extensive ageing. Outside of France, Pinot Noir thrives in cooler areas of the New World. There are producers in California, New Zealand and Australia (Timo Mayer in particular is a Pinot Wizard) who are making Pinot Noir that easily rivals Burgundy. A perfect grape for lovers of a lighter touch.