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Pinot Grigio is Italy’s signature white wine. It’s a light, zesty white wine that’s as refreshing as a gentle breeze on a summer’s day. Light in body with a zingy acidity, Pinot Grigio bursts with lemon, lime and green apple flavours. You may taste a mineral-like note and a hint of saltiness, too. Easy-drinking Pinot Grigio pairs well with light dishes, especially seafood, salads and pasta. No wonder it’s a favourite of many white wine drinkers worldwide.
So, let’s raise a glass of Pinot Grigio – and learn more about this grape.
What is Pinot Grigio?
Pinot Grigio (pronounced pee·now gri·jee·ow) is one of the world’s favourite white wines. Famous for its zesty acidity and fresh vibe, Pinot Grigio is brimming with delicate green fruit flavours like pear, green apple and citrus – and even a whisper of almonds. It’s a light, dry, easy-drinking wine that’s a perfect partner to a range of foods. It’s no wonder it’s loved by white wine drinkers everywhere.
But, surprisingly, this top-notch white wine was born from a red grape. Pinot Grigio is actually a mutation of Pinot Noir.
The pinkish-grey skinned Pinot Grigio grapes trace their roots back to the vineyards of France, where they are known as Pinot Gris. In France, the grape is primarily grown in the Alsace region, where premium Pinot Gris wines are produced. However, it is in Italy that Pinot Grigio has found its true home.
Pinot Grigio vs Pinot Gris - what’s the difference?
Pinot Grigio and Pinot Gris refer to the same grape grown in different countries, mainly Italy and France. Although the same grape is used in both countries, it produces remarkably different wines.
In Italy, Pinot Grigio is typically light, crisp and refreshing, with a taste of citrus fruits, green apples and sometimes white flowers.
Pinot Gris wines are primarily made in France’s Alsace region and Oregon in the USA. They tend to be richer and fuller-bodied, with pear, apple and tropical fruit flavours. Higher-end Pinot Gris can also have hints of honey and spice with a creamy texture.
While both are popular, Italian Pinot Grigio is hugely successful worldwide for its drinkability and everyday charm.
Where is Pinot Grigio from?
Pinot Grigio, or Pinot Gris, started life in France’s Burgundy region. From here, the grape variety made its way to Italy, where it is grown in the northeastern regions of the Veneto, Friuli, Trentino, Alto Adige and Lombardy.
One of Italy’s largest wine-producing regions, the Veneto is known for producing large volumes of Pinot Grigio. These easy-drinking wines are typically light-bodied, with crisp acidity and flavours of green apple, pear and hints of white flowers.
Alto Adige, the mountainous northernmost part of Italy, delivers Pinot Grigio wines with a bit more body and structure. The cooler climate allows the grapes to maintain their acidity. The result? Well-balanced wines with ripe orchard fruit flavours and often a notable mineral streak.
In Friuli, Pinot Grigio wines are typically more full-bodied with ripe stone fruits, honey and almond flavours.
In the Alsace region of its native France, Pinot Gris wines are richer, more fuller-bodied and sometimes slightly sweet.
This adaptable grape is growing in popularity in the United States, especially in Oregon, where winemakers aim for an Alsace-inspired style. Other notable areas making noteworthy Pinot Grigio include Australia, Germany and Hungary.
So, same grape, different regions – and a world of flavours to explore
What does Pinot Grigio taste like?
Pinot Grigio is loved for its bright, fresh character. Imagine a burst of green apple, pear, and zesty citrus in every sip. And depending on where it’s made, you might even catch a whisper of honey, almond or floral hints.
Love zippy and vibrant wines? Well, Pinot Grigio delivers on both counts. Typically high in acidity, it has a refreshing, mouthwatering bite. Its body can range from light to medium, contributing to the overall mouthfeel.
Just as its name changes across regions, so the taste can vary depending on where it’s made. Italian-style Pinot Grigio wine tends to be light and dry with a sharp acidity. Expect fruit flavours, including lemon, lime, ripe pear, green apple and peach. You may detect faint honeyed notes, floral aromas like honeysuckle and a saline-like minerality.
A French Pinot Gris typically flaunts a richer, fuller body with ripe fruit flavours, such as tropical and stone fruit and citrus. Some Alsace Pinot Gris wines have a touch of sweetness, too, from grapes affected by botrytis (noble rot).
Winemakers in other regions worldwide make wines from this grape in either the light, crisp Italian style or the richer, fuller-bodied Alsace style.
Is Pinot Grigio dry or sweet?
Pinot Grigio is typically made in a dry style, especially those from Italy. This means that all the grape sugar is converted to alcohol during fermentation. This gives the wine a crisp, refreshing character with no hint of sweetness. It’s like taking a bite into a fresh green apple with a crisp acidity and playful hints of citrus and sometimes a suggestion of almond.
Some Pinot Grigio can take on a spectrum of sweetness. French and American Pinot Gris and certain late-harvest wines may have higher levels of residual sugar, lending a touch of sweetness. Some premium wines from Alsace use Pinot Gris grapes affected by botrytis (noble rot) to create full-bodied, intensely sweet white wines.
Pinot Grigio vs Sauvignon Blanc vs Chardonnay – which is sweeter?
Pinot Grigio, Sauvignon Blanc and Chardonnay are all commonly made in a dry style. They have little to no residual sugar left after fermentation, meaning they are not sweet.
Pinot Grigio often presents fresh and crisp flavours like green apple and pear.
Sauvignon Blanc is known for its tart acidity with citrus or tropical fruit flavours.
Chardonnay can range in style significantly but is usually made dry, with fruit flavours that vary based on climate and winemaking techniques.
However, the perceived sweetness of a wine can be affected by factors such as fruitiness, alcohol level or use of oak. Some versions of these wines, such as oaked Chardonnays or Pinot Gris (the French style of Pinot Grigio), might taste a bit sweeter due to these factors, even though they are technically dry.
What foods pair well with Pinot Grigio wine?
With its high acidity and fruit flavours, Pinot Grigio is a wonderfully food-friendly wine. When considering food pairing, the key is to go fresh!
Classic partners are grilled fish and seafood – from prawns and scallops to sushi and ceviche. Richer versions of Pinot Grigio/Gris pair well with poultry and pork, especially when they’re dressed in a citrus marinade or a creamy sauce.
When it comes to vegetable dishes, Pinot Grigio complements the likes of salads, asparagus, artichokes or green herb-based dishes. Light pasta dishes – from creamy pasta to seafood pasta – pair nicely with the wine’s bright acidity.
Ready for the cheese course? Opt for lighter and softer options such as mild, soft cheese, goat cheese or fresh mozzarella to echo the wine’s character. And don’t forget about fruit – whether fresh or grilled, the natural sweetness of fruit works in harmony with the wine’s fruity notes.
Pairing is about what tastes good to you, so have fun exploring different combinations!
How do you serve Pinot Grigio wine?
Like most white wines, Pinot Grigio should be served chilled but not too cold. The ideal serving temperature is between 6-10°C. If it’s too cold, you might miss out on some subtle flavours and aromas.
Serve your Pinot Grigio in a white wine glass. The smaller bowl helps to keep the wine cool and funnels its delightful aromas directly to your nose.
Easy-drinking in style, Pinot Grigio can be poured straight from the bottle. But, if a bottle of older Pinot Grigio is on the menu, you might opt to decant it for a short while to fully release its complex flavours.
Can Pinot Grigio wine be used in cooking?
Pinot Grigio’s high acidity and fruit flavours can make a great cooking wine. It’s particularly good for dishes that call for a dry white wine, such as seafood, poultry and creamy sauces.
When cooking with Pinot Grigio, remember that as the wine reduces, its flavours concentrate. So, using a good quality wine you enjoy drinking is best. But there’s no need to break the bank! Expensive bottles are usually better saved for sipping rather than simmering.
How long does Pinot Grigio last opened?
Once opened, a bottle of Pinot Grigio should ideally be enjoyed within 1-3 days for best quality, though properly stored, it may last a day or two longer. Seal the bottle tightly and pop it in the fridge. Consider using a wine preserver to help prolong its freshness.
Pinot Grigio is best enjoyed young, although some high-quality varieties can last longer when stored properly. To ensure your unopened Pinot Grigio bottle lasts as long as possible, keep it in a cool, dark place with a consistent temperature. This will help to keep its distinct flavours and characteristics until it’s time to be enjoyed.
What are the best Pinot Grigio wines?
Pinot Grigio’s charm lies in the range of flavours it displays based on where and how it is made. An Italian Pinot Grigio might delight with its intense minerality and bright citrus notes, while a Pinot Gris from Oregon might lean towards richer stone fruit flavours with a hint of spice.
Here are some of our favourite Pinot Grigio wines from around the world:
Alessandro Gallici Pinot Grigio 2022, Italy
Alessandro Gallici’s Pinot Grigio from Italy’s Friuli region is a delight for the senses. Light, crisp and brimming with lively citrus and green apple notes, it’s a refreshing option that embodies the classic style of Italian Pinot Grigio. A subtle hint of almond on the finish adds complexity to this highly enjoyable wine. It’s wonderful to enjoy on its own or as a partner to a creamy linguine.
Campanula Pinot Grigio 2022, Hungary
Campanula Pinot Grigio is a hidden gem from the rolling hills of Hungary. It offers a harmonious blend of freshness and complexity, with ripe pears and green apple flavours. This wine is delightfully aromatic with a balanced minerality. Enjoy a glass by itself or pair it with lighter fish dishes, salads or risotto.
Farinelli Pinot Grigio 2023, Italy
If you’re looking for a Pinot Grigio that’s typical Italian in style, look no further than Farinelli Pinot Grigio 2023. Flavours of ripe peach and apple fruitiness blend perfectly with zesty citrus notes. Sip as an aperitif or match with a plate of lemon chicken or creamy pasta.
The Black Stump Chardonnay Pinot Grigio 2023, Australia
This Australian Pinot Grigio comes from the remote Riverina region. Crisp and citrusy, yet ripe and rounded, this Aussie white is packed with juicy fruit flavours. The Black Stump Chardonnay Pinot Grigio 2023 offers a uniquely Australian wine experience that pairs well with pasta and creamy mushroom sauce, stir-fry or roast chicken.
Acasa Pinot Grigio 2022, Moldova
Acasa Pinot Grigio 2022 is a standout offering from one of Moldova’s top wineries, Château Vartely. Rippling with lemony freshness and bright orchard fruit notes, it’s perfect for pairing with lighter dishes or savouring solo.
Start your Pinot Grigio experience
Pinot Grigio holds a special place in the hearts of wine enthusiasts worldwide. Whether you’re uncorking a bottle from its Italian homeland or exploring the unique interpretation from Australia, there’s an inescapable allure to this wine’s bright and lively character.
About the author
Chris Larkin
A seasoned copywriter with over two decades experience, Chris has been part of the team since 2021. At Laithwaites HQ, you’ll find him either working on our latest catalogue or creating informative content for our website. Qualified to WSET Level 3 Wine, Chris is as geeky about wine as he is about copywriting. But when it comes to choosing a special bottle, he is a traditionalist, and loves a good Bordeaux or Mâcon Chardonnay.
