The Temperature Debate: Why Isn’t Pinot Noir Served Chilled?
As a wine enthusiast living in the sweltering heat of Phoenix, I often find myself grappling with a frustrating question: why do some restaurants continue to serve warm bottles of Pinot Noir?
As we all know, the climate in Phoenix can be quite oppressive, especially during the summer months. While I understand that ordering a glass of wine on an outdoor patio may lead to a warm pour, I find it perplexing that even high-end dining establishments serve bottles of Pinot that are noticeably warm.
Just recently, I dined at a well-regarded restaurant where I selected a $60 bottle of Pinot Noir. To my dismay, it arrived at an unpleasant temperature, far from the ideal range for this elegant varietal. Politely, I requested that the bartender chill the bottle on ice for a short while. His reaction was surprising—he informed me, with a quizzical expression, that he “never chills red wine.” I couldn’t quite believe it.
This experience wasn’t isolated; my visit to Cooper’s Hawk, a venue marketed as a “wine bar,” ended similarly. The staff seemed to share the bartender’s sentiment, looking at me as if I had suggested an outrageous idea when all I wanted was a perfectly served glass of wine.
It’s worth noting that Pinot Noir is best enjoyed at a temperature between 55-60 degrees Fahrenheit. While the term “room temperature” may suggest a certain warmth, it actually refers to the cooler environment of a wine cellar. The reality is different when you’re in a hot climate; warming a bottle of Pinot Noir takes away its nuance and character.
This issue has lingered as a pet peeve of mine, especially as ordering a bottle often leads to the same skeptical looks from staff when I request it to be chilled. I can’t help but wonder: am I out of line for seeking the best possible experience from my wine?
So, fellow wine lovers, what do you think? Should restaurants be more mindful of wine temperatures, or is this merely a quirk of personal preference? Your thoughts are most welcome in the comments below!