Pinot Grigio (or Pinot Gris) is a white wine variety that has become extremely popular in recent years, but it’s not always easy to distinguish between different types of white wines. So, is Pinot Grigio really a white wine?
Characteristics of Pinot Grigio (also known as Pinot Gris)
The color of Pinot Grigio wines can range from straw yellow to golden hues, and its flavor is often light and crisp with hints of citrus and green apple. It originated in the Burgundy region of France and has grown in popularity around the world due to its refreshing character and ability to pair well with many types of food.
While some winemakers leave a hint of pink pigment in their Pinot Grigio wines or make rosé-style blends from the grape, most Pinot Grigio grapes are handled in a similar manner as other white grapes – crushed immediately after picking and then fermented without contact with the skins for a few days until completion. This means that most wines made from this variety will be true whites with no visible tinge or blush from the addition of red grape pigments.
Though it’s not as full-bodied or round as some Chardonnays or Sauvignon Blancs, Pinot Grigio offers an aromatic alternative for those looking for something lighter yet still packed with flavor. Pick up a bottle today to experience what this versatile varietal has to offer!
Is Pinot Grigio related to Pinot Noir?
Pinot Grigio and Pinot Noir are related, though their grapes have differences in color, structure, and flavor characteristics. Both come from the black-skinned Pinot family of grape varieties that includes a variety of preferred white and red wines. The origins of both of these grapes date back to centuries-old vines in France. A closer look at their flavor and texture profiles, however, reveals striking differences between them. Pinot Grigio is often described as light-bodied and crisp while Pinot Noir can be fuller in body with earthy notes. The two grapes have different color hues — Pinot Grigio being golden yellow and Pinot Noir being deep ruby red. Despite these variations, the two varieties do share one commonality: they pair beautifully with various food items such as fish, poultry, veal, mushrooms and fresh herbs. With its intricate yet reliable flavor profile and inviting color, it’s no surprise why these two varieties have been gaining popularity around the world.
What does Pinot Grigio wine taste like?
A delicate and refreshingly light white wine with a crisp finish, Pinot Grigio offers hints of citrus, ripe pear and honeydew melon. While it can vary from sweet to dry depending on the fermentation process, generally this white wine has a bright acidity for a signature acidic bite and minerality to impart more complex flavor elements. Its floral aroma is balanced with nuances of lime zest, tart apple, and pithy grapefruit. For medium-bodied wines, more subtle hints of herbs, stone fruit and nuts can be detected too. Overall, Pinot Grigio is an easy drinking white wine with moderate tannins that yields a pleasant fruit-driven style with a mineral-tinged finish.
Many find Pinot Grigio to be light-bodied in nature; however, it can also contain hints of pineapple or honeydew if aged for a longer period of time. When served chilled or over ice on a hot summer day, its citrus kick livens up the palate without overpowering. Pinot Grigio creates an exceptionally pleasant experience by combining subtle tastes that pair perfectly with almost any meal – especially seafood dishes!
Hi, I’m Rachel Edwards and I enjoy a glass of wine as much as the rest of them. Well, maybe slightly more.
My parents own a vineyard in Napa Valley and were constantly making new wines for the locals to try. Their brand was one of the most popular across the US at one point. My sister and I loved running up and down the vines, picking the grapes for our parents, and even helping with the ideas.
Since moving out of the family home, my love for wine has not waivered - in fact, I consider myself somewhat of a connoisseur. I’m always the one to bring the wine to our girly gatherings, family meals, and picnics - let me know what we’re doing, and I’ll supply the goods.
