Pinot Grigio Wine

Pinot Grigio (pronounced pee-noh gree-jhee-oh) is the descendant of the Pinot Noir and Pinot Blanc grape varieties. It has a distinct grayish-pink colred skin and is famed for producing some of the world's most in-demand white wines.

Although commonly associated with Italy, Pinot Grigio actually has its roots in France, where it is called Pinot Gris ('gris' translates to 'gray' in French).

Despite sharing the same grape, the wines emanating from these two countries often differ significantly in style. Italian Pinot Grigio is crisp and dry, brimming with citrus notes, while French Pinot Gris thends to be richer, with lower levels of acidity, higher alcohol content and a fuller flavor profile.

Thanks to its varied skin tones, Pinot Grigio can produce white wines in a range of hues, from pale gold to coppery tones, and sometimes with a touch of pink.

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Although Pinot Grigio has its roots in France, it is now extensively cultivated in Italy, particularly in the northern regions of Lombardy, Friuli and Veneto. In France’s Alsace region, where it is called Pinot Gris, the grape produces a distinctive range of wines, from dry to lusciously sweet styles, quite different from the typical Italian Pinot Grigio.

This adaptable grape has expanded its reach across Europe, flourishing in countries like Germany, Hungary and Austria. It has also gained popularity in other parts of the world, including the United States, Australia and New Zealand.

Pinot Grigio’s profile shifts based on the region where it’s grown.

Generally, it’s a dry white wine with a light to medium body, medium to high acidity and an alcohol content ranging from 12.5% to 13.5% ABV. Italian Pinot Grigio is crisp and refreshing, with bright citrus notes, while French Pinot Gris takes on a richer style, offering more body, texture and higher alcohol levels.

Fans of light, zesty white wines often gravitate toward Pinot Grigio, while those who prefer a fuller, more indulgent white wine with a touch of sweetness tend to favor French Pinot Gris.

Pinot Grigio grapes that ripen early create wines with a light body, bright acidity, and a vibrant burst of fruity flavors such as:

• Grapefruit

• Citrus

• Stone fruits

• Green apple

When the grapes are allowed to ripen longer, the wines develop richer, more luscious fruit notes, including:

• Orchard fruit like pear

• Peachy notes

• Nectarine

In addition to these fruity profiles, Pinot Grigio wines may also reveal subtle hints of:

• Nutmeg

• Floral notes

• Nuttiness, like almod

Northern Italy is renowned for producing Pinot Grigio, a reliable choice for those who enjoy dry, crisp and refreshing white wines.

Pinot Grigio from outside Italy typically offers a similarly fresh, light style.

For a richer, more indulgent option, try Pinot Gris from its French homeland in Alsace. This fuller-bodied, fruit-forward style with a velvety texture is also common in bottles from warmer climates like the U.S. and New Zealand.

While most Pinot Grigio is best enjoyed young—ideally within a year or two of release—Pinot Gris from Alsace, especially Premier Cru and Grand Cru offerings, can be aged longer, offering an extended window for enjoyment.

Pinot Grigio pairs wonderfully with light, fresh dishes. Think seafood, fish, crisp salads and vibrant vegetables. It’s also a fantastic choice for sushi lovers. Poultry dishes, like chicken or turkey, pair beautifully, especially when seasoned with fresh herbs—making herbed chicken an ideal match for this wine.

Cheese enthusiasts can also enjoy Pinot Grigio alongside a selection of cheeses. Try it with sweet, nutty Gruyere, creamy Buffalo Mozzarella, semi-soft Muenster or dishes featuring Grana Padano for a delightful pairing.

Pinot Grigio, a crisp dry white wine, is best enjoyed ice-cold. Chill the bottle in the fridge or an ice bucket for about an hour before serving. A temperature of around 45°F perfectly highlights the wine’s bright, zesty flavors.