What is the difference between Pinot Gris and Pinot Grigio?
Learn About Pinot Gris and Pinot Grigio – What’s the difference?
In France, it is Pinot Gris. In Italy, it is Pinot Grigio. The two are indeed the same grape variety. California winemakers can go either way in what they name their wine from this delicious and fresh grape. The Alsace region of France is the most famous wine-growing region for Pinot Gris. In Italy, Pinot Grigio vineyards are found in many areas, but Alto Adige (Trentino) and Friuli are most well known. In California and Oregon, we see this grape variety growing in cool-climate regions.
Typical Alsatian Village with hillside vineyards of Pinot Gris and other Alsatian varieties
The Character of Pinot Gris and Pinot Grigio
Pinot Gris and Pinot Grigio are fresh and bright-tasting wines. The good ones have tropical notes and floral characteristics. Pinot Gris and Pinot Grigio are refreshing wines and ideal for outdoor activities. Nothing beats this wine on a beautiful sunny day. Pinot Gris and Pinot Grigio are usually produced in stainless steel tanks. Some wineries will give some neutral oak barrel-aging to a portion of the blend. Neutral oak provides some weight to the wine. Most Pinot Gris and Grigio wines are dry and lively. Avoid semi-sweet Pinot Grigio wines.
Under $20 Pinot Gris and Pinot Grigio wines we like
- Joel Gott Oregon Pinot Gris
- J Vineyards California Pinot Gris
- Ron Rubin Russian River Valley Pinot Gris
- Any Pinto Grigio from Alto Adige in Italy
- Any Pinot Gris from the Alsace in France
Foods we like with Pinot Gris and Pinot Grigio
- Light cheese selections
- Tomato Bruschetta
- Salads with avocado and tomato
- Sandwiches – Smoked Salmon or Tomato Sandwich with Avocado
- Calamari appetizer
