Descriptive Analysis of Pinot noir Wines from Carneros, Napa, and Sonoma

Abstract

Twenty-eight Pinot noir wines from Carneros, Napa, and Sonoma were evaluated by descriptive analysis by seven trained judges. Wines differed significantly for all 14 sensory attributes except prune aroma. Principal component analysis of the mean ratings showed that Carneros wines differed from Napa and Sonoma wines and that they had unique sensory attributes. Carneros Pinot noir wines were characterized by intense fresh berry, berry jam, cherry, and spicy aromas.