Pinot Grigio/Gris (Pee-no Gree-jo/Gree) is a white wine that is golden yellow, copper, or even a light shade of pink. The flavors are light, dry, and crisp tasting like lemons, limes, green apples, pears, or honeysuckle. They make a great Summer time wine. They’re typically only barreled in stainless steel to keep the crisp zingy flavors. Italy is known for producing most of the top selling brands but the US and Australia are in the mix as well.
Color
While some Pinot Grigios can be deep gold, the most familiar incarnation in our market is basic Italian Pinot Grigio, whose very pale tint foreshadows light body and mild taste.
Flavors and Aromas
Pinot Grigio’s mild profile, gently reminiscent of peach or citrus, accompanied by moderate acidity, means that this wine works well as an easy-sipping apéritif, and as a table wine that won’t step on many food’s toes.
Pairings
- Clams
- Oysters
- Smoked Fish
- Prawns
- Chicken Dishes
- Chinese Food
- Mediterranean Food
- Indian and Thai Spices
- Turkey
- Duck
- Goat Cheese
- Camembert Cheese
- Mozzarella
- Gruyere Cheese
- Ricotta Cheese
Things to Avoid
- Chocolate
- Smoked Red Meats
- Blue Cheese
- Manchego
- Parmesan (in excess, as a pasta garnish its ok)
Fun Facts
- Pinot Grigio and Pinot Gris are the same grapes but different wines. Confusing? I know. Pinot Gris comes from France because of the color of skin on the grape. Gris = grey. The climate allows Pinot Gris to be a little fuller bodied, spicier, and greater aging potential.
- Pinot GRIGIO on the other hand comes from Italy (the most popular of all growing regions) and tends to be lighter and fruitier/floral.
- Pinot Grigio grapes are actually red with greyish blue skins, but the wine is white.
- Pinot Grigio Day is May 17th!