Pinot Meunier (red)

Not particularly well-known as a varietal, this relative of Burgundy's Pinot Noir is best known as the third main blending variety in Champagne.

It is

more dependable than Pinot Noir because of its ability to ripen on slopes which

Pinot Noir would have trouble coping with as well. It is generally thought to

add suppleness and youthful fruit to the Champagne blend. Meunier is also grown

in Germany an Australia and to a lesser degree in California.

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