Pinot Weather

While it is widely understood that the climate plays a large role in defining the flavors and character in wine, we are only beginning to understand the exact cause and effect relationships.

This page is provided to help study and understand the climate of Pinot Noir regions from all around the world.

Check up to 5 boxes below to compare average monthly temps for various Pinot regions.

Alpine Road
Bordeaux, France
Burgundy, France*
Côte Rôtie, France*
Fairview Ranch
Falstaff Road Vineyard
Family Farm
Home Vineyard
Horseshoe Ranch
Lompoc, Calif.
 Russian River Valley, Calif.*
Salem, Oregon
Skyline
St. Helena, CA (Napa Valley)

Here is a quick guide to reading these charts:

  • The Average Monthly Mean Temperature regulates the vine’s metabolism. Warmer temperatures lead to more rapid grape maturation. This is the most important measure when considering the suitability of a grape varietal for a given site.
  • The Average Monthly High Temperature impacts flavor and aromatics.
  • The difference between the Average Monthly High and Average Monthly Low is called the Diurnal Flux
  • The relevant months for grape growing are typically March through September (budbreak through harvest)
    * Russian River Valley – Graton, CA
   Burgundy – Savigny les Beaune, France
   Cote Rotie – Vienne, France



Please send any comments or climate submissions to weather@rhysvineyards.com.