A Beginner's Guide To Pinot Grigio
Wine Basics 101

A Beginner's Guide To Pinot Grigio

by Jasmine Tham on Jul 07, 2023

Pinot Grigio or Pinot Gris is a light-bodied white wine and its colour ranges from clear to pale yellow with a faint greenish hue. The colour intensity can vary depending on the winemaking techniques used.

Both wines are made from the same grapes, with the sole difference being location. Pinot Grigio, which originated in Burgundy and is a mutation of Pinot Noir, is the second most popular white wine in America. This grape has captured wine enthusiasts throughout the world as a varietal wine, enticing consumers with its sweet and spicy profile. It is now widely planted and cultivated in many wine-producing regions around the world, including Italy, Germany, the United States, and Australia.

Italian Pinot Grigio

Pinot Grigio from Italy creates light-bodied wines that is known for it's vibrant acidity which contributes to its overall crisp and refreshing character. Find hints of lemon-lime, pear, and stone fruit such as peach and apricot. 

French Pinot Grigio

French Pinot Gris wines are known for their rich aromas. Expect stone fruits such as peach, apricot, and nectarine, as well as citrus notes such as lemon zest. Floral scents like rose and honeyed aromas may also be present. In comparison to its Italian equivalent, French Pinot Gris has a richer and fuller body. The grapes are harvested later, resulting in in greater sugar levels and riper flavours. This results in a more voluptuous texture and a heavier presence on the tongue.

A Diverse Star On The Dining Table

This is a wine that pairs nicely with light, fresh flavours since it is a delicate, neutral wine. Consider white meats and seafood, particularly when combined with citrus fruits such as lemons, oranges, peaches, or apricots. It also goes well with appetisers and can be enjoyed as a casual, social wine on its own.