Pinot Grigio, a renowned white wine, has become a favorite for its crispness and refreshing qualities. In this page, we’ll delve into the process of making Pinot Grigio, uncover the history that has shaped this wine, and explore the world’s best Pinot Grigio regions.
Additionally, we’ll discover the ideal foods to pair with this popular varietal.
What is Pinot Grigio/Pinot Gris?
Pinot Grigio, also known as Pinot Gris, belongs to the white wine grape variety within the Vitis vinifera species. Presumed to be a mutant clone of Pinot Noir, its name stems from the typically grayish-blue fruit, although the grapes can exhibit brownish pink, black, or even white hues.
The term “pinot” may originate from the grape’s growth in small, pinecone-shaped clusters. Wines produced from Pinot Gris range in color from deep golden yellow to copper and light pink, making it a popular choice for skin-contact wine.
Flavor profiles span ripe tropical notes of melon and mango to those influenced by botrytis. In Italy, Pinot Grigio grapes are often harvested early to preserve refreshing acidity and minimize overt fruitiness, resulting in a more neutral flavor profile. This approach is replicated in other Old World regions, such as Germany.
How is Pinot Grigio Made?
- Harvesting: Pinot Grigio grapes are carefully harvested, focusing on achieving optimal ripeness, balancing sugars and acidity.
- Crushing and Pressing: After harvest, a gentle crushing process liberates juice from the grapes, setting the stage for subsequent winemaking steps.
- Fermentation: The liberated juice undergoes fermentation, where yeast transforms sugars into alcohol, influencing the final flavor profile.
- Aging: Pinot Grigio’s youthful freshness is maintained, with limited aging typically occurring in stainless steel tanks.
History of Pinot Grigio
Pinot Gris, historically known as Fromenteau in Burgundy during the Middle Ages, has roots dating back to that era. Alongside Pinot Noir, it journeyed from Burgundy to Switzerland by 1300 and gained favor with Emperor Charles IV. Cistercian monks exported cuttings to Hungary in 1375, planting them on the slopes of Badacsony, leading to the grape’s name Szürkebarát, meaning “grey monk.”
In 1711, German merchant Johann Seger Ruland rediscovered a wild grape in the Palatinate, resulting in the creation of Ruländer wine, later identified as Pinot Gris. Though popular in Burgundy and Champagne until the 18th and 19th centuries, declining yields and unreliable crops led to a fall from favor. A similar decline was narrowly averted in Germany as 20th-century vine breeders developed clonal varieties, ensuring a more consistent harvest.
Pinot Gris, with a rich history spanning centuries and regions, reflects its resilience and adaptability, making it a notable white wine grape globally.
World’s Best Pinot Grigio Regions
- Friuli-Venezia Giulia, Italy: Renowned for high-quality Pinot Grigio with excellent acidity and diverse flavors.
- Trentino-Alto Adige, Italy: Alpine vineyards contribute to crisp and mineral Pinot Grigio.
- Alsace, France: Known for aromatic and fuller-bodied expressions of the grape.
- Oregon, USA: Cool climate produces vibrant and expressive Pinot Gris.
- Australia and New Zealand: Emerging as contenders, producing fresh and fruit-forward Pinot Grigio.
Best Foods to Pair with Pinot Grigio
- Seafood: Complements various seafood dishes, enhancing flavors.
- Light Pasta Dishes: Ideal for pasta with lemon, garlic, or olive oil-based sauces.
- Salads: Perfect match for salads, particularly with vinaigrette dressings.
- Cheeses: Harmonizes well with soft and creamy cheeses.
- Poultry: Complements roasted chicken, turkey, or light chicken salad.
Pinot Grigio – A Sweet Treat
Pinot Grigio stands as a versatile and approachable white wine, celebrated for its simplicity and easy-drinking qualities. Whether enjoyed in the picturesque vineyards of Italy, the charming landscapes of Alsace, or the emerging wine regions of the United States and beyond, Pinot Grigio has secured its place as a beloved varietal.
Here’s to Pinot Grigio, a wine that continues to captivate wine enthusiasts with its straightforward charm. Cheers! Explore more about types of white wine.
