Embarking on a Pinot Noir journey need not be confined to the rolling, history-filled hills of Burgundy.

While the French region is the undisputed homeland of this delicate grape, wine enthusiasts can discover exceptional expressions worldwide, often times at far better values than those found in Burgundy. From the lush valleys of California to the sun-kissed landscapes of Australia, here are nine captivating places to seek out outstanding Pinot Noir.

These 9 regions are by no means a full list of great Pinot Noir producing regions, but are certainly some of our favorites from around the world. View our list and shop our selection at Caves Wine Shop.

 

1. Thermenregion, Austria

source: austrianwine.com

Austria is most commonly associated with two native grape varieties that we love, Grüner Veltliner, the crisp, citrus driven white wine, and Zweigelt, the medium-bodied, often juicy red. But international varieties also have a home here and Pinot Noir is commonly planted just south of Vienna in the region known as Thermenregion - named appropriately for its thermal hot springs. The generally cool climate of this region works well to ripen Pinot Noir, expressing it’s delicate texture superbly.

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2. Yarra Valley, Australia

source: visitmelbourne.com

As one of Australia’s most famous wine regions, the Yarra Valley has made a name for itself for producing some exceptional Pinot Noir and Chardonnay. These rolling hills, located northeast of Melbourne are home to some world class winemakers, such as Timo Meyer, Luke Lambert, Mac Forbes and others. These wines offer beautiful expressions of Pinot Noir and Chardonnay and show a bit of New World with an Burgundian core.

 

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3. Sonoma Coast, California

source: sonomacounty.com

When it comes to California Pinot Noir, Sonoma Coast is at the forefront of conversation. Nestled along California's rugged coastline just north of San Francisco, the region's Pinot Noir shines as a true standout. The cool maritime climate, influenced by the nearby Pacific Ocean, creates an ideal environment for slow grape ripening, resulting in wines of finesse and elegance. With a diverse topography of rolling hills and well-drained soils, Sonoma Coast Pinot Noir expresses a unique terroir, delivering a delicate balance of red fruit aromas, subtle earthiness, and a touch of coastal influence. Crafted by dedicated winemakers, these wines capture the essence of the region, offering a refined and unforgettable experience for both seasoned enthusiasts and newcomers alike.

 

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4. Santa Barbara, California

source: santabarbaraca.com

Put on the international map by names like Jim Clendenen and Rajat Parr, Santa Barbara is a staple for California Pinot Noir. The region's unique geography, with its east-west valleys opening directly to the Pacific Ocean, creates a cool and fog-kissed environment that is particularly well-suited for Pinot Noir cultivation. The diversity of microclimates within Santa Barbara allows for a range of expressions, from the cooler Sta. Rita Hills to the warmer Santa Maria Valley. One can be sure to experience varying styles of great Pinot Noir.

 

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5. Willamette Valley, Oregon

source: travelportland.com

In the heart of the Pacific Northwest, Willamette Valley is the epicenter of Oregon Pinot Noir production and stands tall as a Pinot Noir haven. The terroir of Willamette Valley is a harmonious combination of cool temperatures, volcanic soils, elevation, and wind patterns. This unique environment provides the ideal conditions for cultivating high-quality Pinot Noir, resulting in wines that often display a delicate balance of vibrant fruit, lively acidity, and a sense of place that reflects the region's terroir.

 

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6. Hemel-En-Aarde, South Africa

source: hemelenaardewines.com

South Africa’s premier region for Pinot Noir is also a region that flies under the radar for most wine enthusiasts. Located near the whale watching destination of Hermanus, the Hemel-En-Aarde enjoys a cool maritime influence from the nearby Atlantic Ocean with morning cloud cover and prevailing winds that are ideal for Pinot Noir cultivation. The vineyards are often perched on hillsides with well-drained soils, enhancing the grape's concentration and complexity. The name "Hemel en Aarde" translates to "Heaven and Earth" in Afrikaans, aptly describing the heavenly wines produced in this cool-climate region.

 

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7. Baden, Germany

source: baden-baden.com

Although Germany is far more synonymous with Riesling, it’s southern region of Baden is plenty warm enough to ripen Pinot Noir to dazzling levels that give nods to Burgundy, geographically not too far away. The cultivation of Pinot Noir, locally known as Spätburgunder in Germany, can be traced back to the Roman era. The Romans were the first to introduce vine cultivation to the region, and over time, Pinot Noir became one of the prominent grape varieties planted. Baden offers exceptional Pinot Noir, especially when bottled as Grosses Gewächs, the German equivalent of France’s Grand Cru.

 

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8. Central Otago, New Zealand

source: nzwine.com (janyne fletcher)

Famous for being the world’s most southernmost wine producing region, Central Otago, located on New Zealand’s south island has become a hotspot for great Pinot Noir production with a New World style. This continental climate is marked by hot summers and cold winters. The diurnal temperature variation, with warm days and cool nights, allows the grapes to ripen slowly, resulting in wines with vibrant acidity and intense fruit flavors. Central Otago Pinot Noir is often characterized by a lush and fruit-forward profile. The wines are known for their purity and clarity of fruit expression.

 

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9. Casablanca Valley, Chile

source: chile.travel/en/

Chile is no stranger to wine production, but it’s popularity on the international wine scene has been steadily increasing more recently due to a host of winemakers bringing forgotten vineyards back to life and exploring new terrain. It’s diversity of climates means Chile is home to a variety of great wines, including Pinot Noir. The Casablanca Valley, situated between the coastal mountain range and the Pacific Ocean, enjoys a cool-climate influence that is particularly well-suited for the cultivation of this world-renowned grape variety.

 

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cover image source: andre castelucci, wineaustralia.com