Pinot Gris is a unique and diverse grape variety, producing range of wine styles depending on where it is grown. It has a light grey to pinkish hue and produces wines with fine aromas and flavors.
Pinot Gris grapes have a light grey to pinkish color. Its wines are medium to light-bodied and mostly dry, with a range of flavors and aromas such as notes of pear, peach, spice and honey.
Pinot Gris is widely planted in France’s Alsace region. It is also found in Germany, where it is called "Grauburgunder". In Italy, the variety is mostly known as "Pinot Grigio". Furthermore it is cultivated in Austria and Switzerland, as well as other parts of Europe. It is also grown in North America, Australia and New Zealand. Pinot Gris is an early-ripening, relatively vigorous vine. The bunches are small and compact making it susceptible to botrytis and bunch rot. The yields are relatively low and it is usually made into single-varietal wines. The winemaking process can involve oak aging but the majority of wines are aged in stainless steel. Alsatian Pinot Gris has a fuller body and higher alcohol levels, with flavors of peach, apricot, honey, mushrooms and spices. German Pinot Gris is typically light-bodied and acidic, with aromas of peach, pear and honey. Italian Pinot Grigio is medium to light-bodied and dry, with citrus, apple and floral notes. Pinot Gris is a versatile food pairing wine, and its dryness makes it a good match for a variety of dishes. It pairs well with fish, poultry and vegetarian dishes, as well as with Asian cuisine.
Pinot Gris is a mutation of the Pinot Noir grape variety.
It was first discovered in the Burgundy region of France.