What's the correct pronunciation of "Pinot Noir"?
Hello there! I'm Dr. Vinifera, but you can call me Vinny. Ask me your toughest wine questions, from the fine points of etiquette to the science of winemaking. And don't worry, I'm no wine snob—you can also ask me those "dumb questions" you're too embarrased to ask your wine geek friends! I hope you find my answers educational, empowering and even amusing. And don't forget to check out my most asked questions and my full archives for all my Q&A classics.
Dear Dr. Vinny,
What is the correct pronunciation of Pinot Noir? I have always heard it pronounced "pee no nwahr." I have most recently been corrected that it should be pronounced "pee-NO," with the "no" being very strong and emphasized, almost like a French accent. Which is correct?
—Barbara W., Plainfield, Ill.
Dear Barbara,
The correct way to pronounce "Pinot" is "Pee-no," with equal emphasis on both short syllables, although many people put a little extra oomph on the first syllable, making it more like "PEE-no." I hear more variations of "Noir." "N'war" is standard, but some like to say it with a little more flair, turning it into "Na-whar" or "No-aaaaaaaargh." Zee fake French accent will only get you so far.
—Dr. Vinny
