Pinot Gris (AKA Pinot Grigio)

TL; DR

One of the world's best known grapes, capable of greatness and also mediocrity.

So, what is it?--red

Gris and Grigio are the same grape, either from different countries (Gris - France, Grigio- Italy); or if neither of those, then used to demarcate the style that the wine is made in (Gris - rounder and fatter, Grigio - lighter and tangy)

Where does it come from?--aromatic

Originally from Burgundy, in eastern France, it spread to Champagne & Alsace, across to Germany and then onwards out to the world!

Who's famous for it?--racy

Pinot Gris, also known as Pinot Grigio, is a chameleon of a grape, changing its character depending on where it’s grown. In France's Alsace, it offers rich, full-bodied wines with notes of ripe pear, honey, and a touch of spice. Think of it as the luxurious, velvety version of Pinot Gris, perfect for pairing with hearty, rich and creamy dishes.

Italy, particularly Friuli and Alto-Adige, gives us the crisp, zesty side of Pinot Grigio. Here, the wines are light and refreshing, bursting with green apple, citrus, and a hint of almond. They’re your go-to for a sunny picnic or seafood feast—simple, straightforward, and utterly delightful.

Germany's Pfalz and Baden regions bring a unique twist with their slightly off-dry style. Expect a balance of bright acidity and a whisper of sweetness, with flavours of apricot and peach.

In the USA, Oregon’s Pinot Gris is like a walk through an apple orchard—aromatic with melon and a minerally finish, perfect for fresh salads and grilled goodies. New Zealand’s Canterbury and Marlborough bring vibrant, fruity wines with stone fruit flavors, excellent with shellfish—imagine sipping it with your toes in the sand.

Australia’s Orange and Mornington Peninsula produce juicy, tropical fruit-flavored Pinot Gris, like a burst of sunshine, perfect for BBQ prawns or a spicy curry. Each region brings its own flair, making Pinot Gris a fun, versatile adventure in a glass!

What does it taste like?--lemon

Whilst the split in differences almost makes them taste like different grapes, the main fruit is invariably pear or green apple, with Gris showing richer riper fruit flavours with honey and ginger. Whereas Grigio shows more zesty flavours like lime and tart apples with almond and subtle floral nuances.

Pinot Gris

Pinot Grigio

Main styles it's known for?--cellar

As uncovered, Pinot Grigio is known for its light, crisp, and refreshing style. Typically fermented in stainless steel tanks, it preserves fresh, zesty and fruity character with bright acidity. Whereas Pinot Gris tends to be richer and fuller-bodied, with notes of ripe pear, honey, and spice. Some are aged in oak barrels, adding complexity, depth, and a hint of toastiness. The oak aging also softens the acidity, creating a rounder texture.

What foods should you be pairing it with?--plum

Pinot Grigio, the fresher sibling, is all about zesty, light, and refreshing flavours. It’s the perfect match for foods that mirror its crisp and lively character. Think salads with fresh greens and light vinaigrettes, veggie or fish tacos where the wine’s citrus notes enhance the flavours, and fried fish, where its lightness cuts through the richness for a balanced taste experience. Sushi and sashimi also shine with Pinot Grigio, as its clean, fresh profile pairs excellently with delicate flavours. Light seafood dishes, such as shrimp cocktail, ceviche, or grilled calamari, are elevated to new heights when enjoyed with a glass of Pinot Grigio.

Pinot Gris, the richer cousin, offers a fuller body and more complex flavours, making it ideal for heartier dishes. Creamy casseroles benefit from the wine’s richness, complementing the creamy textures and flavours. The slightly off-dry style and robust flavours of Pinot Gris stand up well to Irish sausages and sauces, creating a savoury harmony. Ripe soft cheeses like Brie or Camembert are enhanced by Pinot Gris, which brings out their creamy, rich profiles. Poultry meats, whether it’s chicken or turkey, find a perfect match in Pinot Gris, with the wine’s depth beautifully balancing the flavours. Pork dishes, from roast pork to pork chops, are elevated by the fruitiness and acidity of Pinot Gris, perfectly balancing the richness of the meat

Fun fact--earth

Gris or Grigio translate to 'grey', and thus the wine is the 'grey Pinot' (in the same way that Pinot Noir is the 'black Pinot). But the grapes of Pinot Gris have a wonderful pink blush to them, and some wines may have a coppery tinge from the pigment in the grapes

If you like this, you should also give these grapes a guzzle...--wines

Pinot Blanc, Chenin Blanc