Pinot Grigio

Pinot Grigio is an international grape variety, originating in France where it is known as Pinot Gris and originating from a mutation of Pinot Noir. Successfully cultivated in many parts of the world, it is found in Italy in the northern regions, particularly in Trentino-Alto Adige and Friuli, while in the Veneto region it is used as a widely consumed wine and suitable for creating interesting blends. It is also easy to encounter in the wine production of other countries such as Germany, Australia and New Zealand.

While the vine itself requires a great deal of attention, it is usually vinified as a white wine, although a brief maceration can give it a pleasantly orange colour. With a perceptible and pleasant acidity, it releases aromas of white peach, lemon peel, yellow melon and almond, but small hints of limestone are not uncommon. Pinot Grigio usually gives medium-bodied, more colourful wines in the white category, but it is from Alsace that some of the best examples of Pinot Grigio come with a pleasant, balanced aromaticity, suitable for many regional dishes. Formerly known in Alsace as Tokay-Pinot Gris or Tokay d'Alsace, it has been compulsorily labelled as Pinot Girs since 2007.

Thanks to its acidity, it can age well, transforming hints of peach and apricot into biscuity and buttery aromas over time. In Alsace, it is also permitted as a grape variety for the Vendange Tardive, which, in addition to being subject to strict quality controls, is allowed with grapes harvested during the autumn and with a high sugar concentration.

Celebrate Pinot Grigio Day with us, with this selection of the best Pinot Grigios, selected for you by the Vino.com sommeliers!