WHAT IS PINOT MEUNIER? A GUIDE TO ENGLISH PINOT MEUNIER WINE.
Pinot Meunier is a grape I had certainly not heard of until my interest in English Wine started to grow. A lesser known grape, but one of the most popular when it comes to wine making in England.
Pinot Meunier is a grape traditionally grown in France. It thrives in England’s vineyards too. It can be used as a base to make still wine – white and rose predominately, as well as English sparkling wine. This is a grape worth getting up close and personal with.
This short guide will explain all you need to know about serving and drinking Pinot Meunier, including some top tipples made from the very grape.
How to pronounce Pinot Meunier
Have you ever stumbled across a wine label that reads “Pinot Meunier” and wondered about the correct way to say it? You’re not alone! Pronounced “Pee-no Muhn-yay,” this grape may not grab the limelight like its cousins, Pinot Noir and Chardonnay, but it certainly plays a crucial role, especially in the sparkling wine world.
Originating from France and best known for its contributions to Champagne, Pinot Meunier has found a cozy niche in English vineyards, where it brings its unique qualities to some superb wines.
Best English Pinot Meunier wine
The frivolous one
Hattingley Valley Pinot Meunier Rosé, Hampshire – A limited edition that wine lovers seek out for its distinctive expression of the grape. This wine is fresh, with a lively acidity and notes of red fruits and a hint of floral, showcasing the versatility of Pinot Meunier. Buy direct from Hattingly Valley for £41.
The versatile Pinot Meunier
Yotes Court Best Turned Out, Kent: This is a fine example of Pinot Meunier used to create a classic English rose wine. A Provence style rose, but far from being a “swimming pool rose”, expect a delightful sensation of citrus and strawberry notes. Easy drinking, but not too easy! Buy direct from Yotes Court or via Grape Britannia for £18.49.
The crowd pleaser
Harrow & Hope Pinot Meunier, Buckinghamshire: This is a superb Pinot Meunier fizz. A Blanc de Noirs – basically a white English sparkling made from Pinot grapes. It is a bottle that is sure to wow guests at any celebration. A little at the pricey end, but very special. Buy from Grape Britannia for £41.99.
The best seller
Simpsons Estate Derringstone Blanc de Noir Pinot Meunier, Kent: I am a big fan of any wine produced by Simpsons Estate. This wine is unique as a still white made with 100% Pinot Meunier grape. This is a delectable, creamy white wine. Less fruit forward and more complex than you might expect. Buy direct from Simpsons or via Grape Britannia for £22.99.
How to serve English Pinot Meunier wine
To truly appreciate English Pinot Meunier, especially if it’s sparkling, serve it chilled but not ice-cold. Aim for about 6-8°C (43-46°F). This temperature allows the wine to express its full range of flavors and aromas without being muted by the cold.
Use a proper sparkling wine glass, which will help preserve the bubbles and concentrate the wine’s bouquet, enhancing your drinking experience.
Find my guide to selecting wine glasses for English Sparkling wine here.
Food pairings for Pinot Meunier
One of the joys of Pinot Meunier is its flexibility when it comes to food pairings, particularly when it’s part of a sparkling wine blend. Here are some ideal matches:
Seafood – The crispness and slight acidity of Pinot Meunier sparkling wines make them an excellent match for seafood. Try pairing with oysters, sushi, or a light seafood pasta. Or indeed, a lovely seafood platter with crusty bread.
Soft Cheeses – Soft, creamy cheeses like Brie or Camembert can be beautifully complemented by the acidity and light berry notes of Pinot Meunier, creating a balance that is both elegant and satisfying.
Charcuterie – The subtle complexity of Pinot Meunier works wonderfully with the flavors of cured meats. Arrange a charcuterie board with a variety of meats, some pickles, and crusty bread for a casual yet chic pairing.
Fruit-Based Desserts – For a sweet pairing, try a fruit-based dessert like a fresh berry tart or raspberry sorbet. The natural sweetness and acidity of the fruit will enhance the wine’s fruit notes without overpowering them.
Where to next?
A few of my favourite things
Looking for a gift for yourself or a wine lover in your life? Here are a few of my favourite English Wine things.
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