Pinot Grigio vs. Pinot Gris: What’s the Difference?

Description

pinot grigio

There is often confusion between Pinot Grigio and Pinot Gris, and it's easy to see why. Both wines come from the same grape variety. Despite this shared origin, there are notable differences in the final products.

Country of Origin

The grape's origin lies in France, where it is cultivated in the Alsace region and referred to as "Pinot Gris."

In Italy, it’s grown in the Lombardy region and known as "Pinot Grigio."

While both countries produce similar wines, they differ slightly in style. Wines are classified as either Pinot Gris or Pinot Grigio based on whether they follow the French or Italian winemaking tradition. Nowadays, both styles are produced globally.

Taste Profile

Pinot Grigio, the more popular of the two, is light-bodied, crisp, clean, and vibrant, featuring citrus flavors, as noted by Wine Spectator.

In contrast, Pinot Gris offers a sweeter taste with spicy tropical fruit aromas. It typically has lower acidity, higher alcohol content, and a richer texture.

Why Cooking With Wine Enhances Flavor

Incorporating wine into cooking elevates the flavor of dishes, providing depth and complexity to your meals.

What Is Pinot Gris (the Grape)?

Pinot Gris is a white wine grape variety that originated in France’s Burgundy region. The grapes range in color from grayish-blue to brownish-black.

Wines made from Pinot Gris tend to be golden yellow but can also be copper or light pink.

These grapes are often processed using the skin-contact method, where the skins are left on during winemaking, enhancing the wine’s color and flavor.

Pinot Gris grapes have been used in winemaking since the Middle Ages. By 1300, they had spread to Switzerland alongside Pinot Noir.

Today, Pinot Gris wines are made worldwide, including in France, Italy, Germany, and the U.S. While most Pinot Gris wines are best enjoyed young, some, particularly those made in the French style, can age beautifully.

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