Have you ever found yourself wondering, what’s the difference between Pinot Grigio and Pinot Gris?
THE ANSWER IS THAT PINOT GRIGIO AND PINOT GRIS
ARE IN FACT THE EXACT SAME GRAPE VARIETY!
Then why do wine labels differ? 🤨
The short answer is that Italian wine labels will identify the grape as Pinot Grigio, whereas French wine labels will refer to the grape as Pinot Gris. While French in origin, it is really the Italians that we have to thank for bringing such huge global recognition and fame to the variety.
One thing to note:
While they are the same grape, the two names have come to infer two different styles of wine. The immensely popular Italian Pinot Grigio wines are typically lighter-bodied, crisp, fresh, with vibrant stone fruit and floral aromas. In contrast, Alsace Pinot Gris wines are more full-bodied, richer, spicier, and more viscous in texture. They also tend to have greater cellaring and ageing potential.
Are the two wines just from France and Italy?
NO!!! Today Pinot Gris/Pinot Grigio grapes are planted all over the world in almost every wine-growing region. Try a bottle from California, Oregon, Austria, New Zealand or Australia!
What are the best things to eat with these wines?
Pinot Grigio is better suited as an apéritif or to be enjoyed with
lighter dishes such grilled prawns or fresh seafood.
In contrast, the richness of many Pinot Gris styles enables them to work with heartier fare, such as a veal chop, rabbit stew, roast port, chicken casseroles as well as hard cheeses.
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