Pinot Gris
Overview
Pinot Gris is a white wine grape variety of the species Vitis vinifera. Originating from the vineyards of Burgundy, France, it has since spread across the globe and is now grown in wine regions worldwide. The grape is named after its characteristic grayish-blue fruit, which is actually a mutation of the Pinot Noir variety. The wines produced from Pinot Gris vary greatly and are dependent on the region and winemaking style they are from. Alsatian Pinot Gris wines are medium to full bodied, rich, spicy, and floral with a slight sweetness, while Italian Pinot Grigio wines are typically light-bodied, crisp, clean, and have a punchy acidity.
History
The Pinot Gris grape is believed to have been first cultivated in the Burgundy region of France. It was then spread throughout Europe by the Cistercian monks. In the 14th century, the grape made its way to Switzerland, where it was cultivated in the canton of Neuchâtel. From there, the grape spread to Hungary, and then to Italy, where it became known as Pinot Grigio.
Viticulture
Pinot Gris is a difficult grape to grow, with a tendency towards low yields. It prefers cool climates and is sensitive to location and soil quality. The grape's thin skin makes it susceptible to disease and rot. Despite these challenges, the grape is widely grown due to its ability to produce high-quality wines in the right conditions.
Wine Regions
Pinot Gris is grown in wine regions all over the world. Some of the most notable regions include the Alsace region of France, where it is used to produce dry, full-bodied wines with a strong aroma. In Italy, where it is known as Pinot Grigio, the grape is used to produce light, crisp wines with high acidity. The grape has also found success in regions such as Oregon, California, and New Zealand, where it is used to produce a variety of wine styles.
Wine Styles
The style of wine produced from the Pinot Gris grape can vary greatly depending on the region and winemaking techniques used. In Alsace, the wines are often full-bodied, rich, and slightly sweet, with flavors of peaches, apricots, and pears. In contrast, Italian Pinot Grigio wines are typically light-bodied, crisp, and acidic, with flavors of green apples and citrus fruits.
Food Pairing
Pinot Gris wines are versatile when it comes to food pairing. They can be paired with a wide variety of dishes, from seafood and poultry to pasta and cheese. The light, crisp style of Italian Pinot Grigio is perfect for pairing with light fish dishes, while the richer, fuller-bodied style of Alsatian Pinot Gris pairs well with heavier dishes like roast pork and duck.