Joseph Cattin Pinot Noir

Located just over the German border, the Alsace AOC in France is a melting pot of cultures, and the region is influenced by both countries' histories, traditions, and customs. The charming towns, rolling vineyards, and the Vosges Mountains all contribute to the allure of this gorgeous wine region. Thanks to its unique location and the combination of Franco-Germanic influences, Alsace is an ideal region for wine production.

The Alsace region is celebrated for its diverse wine production, featuring a variety of grapes, including Riesling, Gewurztraminer, Pinot Gris, Sylvaner, Pinot Blanc, Pinot Noir, and Muscat. The cooler climate of Alsace contributes to the development of wines with crisp acidity, ripe roundness on the palate, and vibrantly aromatic richness, making them both refreshing and suitable for enjoyment in the fall and winter. I find the Alsace wines harmonize beautifully with the cooler months ahead in Western North Carolina, offering a comforting autumnal richness and complexity.

You'll find the Cattin family's vineyards and winery in the town of Vœgtlinshoffen, a 40-minute ride south of Strasbourg. This family-run estate has been a foundation of viticultural excellence for generations, and they are one of the largest independent land-holders in the Alsace.

In 2007, Jacques Cattin Jr. and his wife Anaïs took over management of the estate, infusing fresh energy and vision into the Domaine. Their leadership has dutifully upheld the winery's storied and hyper-traditional legacy; however, they have also introduced a slew of innovative practices and techniques, cementing the winery's continued relevance and excellence in the region's wine scene.

Over the past couple of decades, global warming has wreaked havoc on European vignerons and significantly shifted the dynamics for growing Pinot Noir in Alsace. Historically, the region was known for its crisp, rich whites. Pinot Noir and red varietals always played second fiddle to the white varietals since the Pinot Noir struggled to ripen in the region's cooler climate.

As temperatures continue to rise, Pinot Noir is beginning to thrive in the Alsace, reaching levels of ripeness and concentration rarely seen 15 or 20 years ago. The warmer temperatures due to climate change have resulted in more expressive fruit, deeper color, and more balanced Pinot Noir. Cattin's Pinot Noir is a prime example of how these changing climate conditions have made Alsace Pinot Noir increasingly desirable.

With a swirl or two, Cattin Pinot Noir unfolds in your glass with bright aromas of fresh red berries — think cherries, raspberries, and a whisper of cranberry. A delicate hint of earth and forest floor at the end of the middle palate reminds me of a well-crafted entry-level red Burgundy.

Plenty of bright lift makes the red fruit flavors pop on the palate, and the bright fruit is fresh and clean throughout the finish. Gentle earthiness, subtle spice, and soft, ripe tannins provide just the right balance and structure.

Cattin Pinot Noir pairs beautifully with roasted chicken, pork tenderloin, duck breast, and grilled or seared salmon and tuna. For a vegetarian treat, try it with savory mushroom risotto or lentil stew.