NATIONAL DAYFOOD & DRINK

National Pinot Noir Day

Celebrate National Pinot Noir Day with a glass of this exquisite wine and learn about its cultural significance.

AUG18
Wednesday, August 18Every year on August 18
 days to go
Roots
France's Burgundy region
Vibe
Elegant, complex, and versatile
Hashtag
#NationalPinotNoirDay
Apple or Outlook calendar

3 ways to celebrate

AT HOME

Pair it with dinner

Pour a glass alongside roast chicken or mushrooms.

WITH FRIENDS

Host a wine night

Everyone brings a pinot noir and compares notes.

AT WORK OR SCHOOL

Toast after hours

Share a bottle with the team after work.

Plan ahead

National Pinot Noir Day is observed on August 18 every year. Here is where it lands for the next ten years, handy for planners, marketers and party people.

2026Tue, Aug 18this year
2027Wed, Aug 18
2028Fri, Aug 18
2029Sat, Aug 18
2030Sun, Aug 18
2031Mon, Aug 18
2032Wed, Aug 18
2033Thu, Aug 18
2034Fri, Aug 18
2035Sat, Aug 18
2036Mon, Aug 18

Add to my calendar (repeats yearly)

Fast facts

Pinot Noir accounts for 8% of global wine production
The grape is over 1,000 years old

The story

National Pinot Noir Day, celebrated on August 18, highlights the allure of this noble grape variety. Known for its delicate, fruity flavors and silky texture, Pinot Noir has captured the hearts of wine lovers around the world. Originally from France's Burgundy region, this grape thrives in cooler climates, making it suitable for regions like Oregon and California in the United States.

Read the full story

The history of Pinot Noir dates back over a millennium, with references found in texts as early as the 4th century. Its name, derived from the French words for pine (pin) and black (noir), reflects the grape's tightly clustered, pinecone-shaped bunches. Today, it flourishes in various regions globally, from the rolling hills of Sonoma County to the vineyards of New Zealand.

Celebrating National Pinot Noir Day is a wonderful opportunity to indulge in tastings and pairings. This versatile wine complements a range of dishes, from roasted meats to mushroom risotto. Plus, Pinot Noir's light body makes it an ideal choice for summer sipping, whether enjoyed at a picnic or a backyard barbecue.

As you raise your glass this August 18, consider the stories behind each bottle of Pinot Noir. From the winemakers who pour their passion into every vintage to the unique terroirs that shape the grape's character, National Pinot Noir Day invites you to explore and appreciate this remarkable variety.

Did you know?

01

Origins

Pinot Noir's origins trace back to ancient Rome.

02

Cool Climate

Pinot Noir thrives in cooler growing regions.

03

Biodynamic Wine

Many winemakers use biodynamic practices for Pinot Noir.

04

Wine Styles

Pinot Noir can be made into red, rosé, or sparkling wines.

05

Color

Pinot Noir grapes have thin skins, leading to lighter-colored wines.

06

Aging Potential

High-quality Pinot Noir can age beautifully for decades.

07

Food Pairing

Pinot Noir pairs well with dishes like salmon and duck.

Around the world

Every culture celebrates a little differently.

  • USCaliforniaHome to renowned Pinot Noir regions like Sonoma and Santa Barbara.
  • USOregonFamous for its Willamette Valley Pinot Noir.
  • FRFranceThe birthplace of Pinot Noir, especially in Burgundy.
  • AUAustraliaEmerging regions like Tasmania produce excellent Pinot Noir.
  • NZNew ZealandKnown for its vibrant and fruity Pinot Noirs.
  • CACanadaBritish Columbia's Okanagan Valley offers stunning Pinot Noir wines.

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