World Famous Grapes
Pinot Grigio
Pinot Grigio (Pinot Gris) originates from Burgundy in France.
Today its most famous expressions come from Italy and in Alsace (France).
In Germany and Austria it grows under the name of Grauburgunder and Rülander.
Pinot Grigio (Italy)
The Italians prefer their Pinot Grigio fresh and light. Therefore, they harvest the grape earlier than is common in Alsace (France).
Two distinctive style differences occur: fresh and light Italian Pinot Grigio, and rich and powerfull French Pinot Gris.
To retain the fruity and citrusy aromas, Pinot Grigio is fermented in Steel Tanks (not in oak).
Crispy Lemon, Apple, and Pear flavors are typical for Pinot Grigio, with hints of Minerals:
 Lemon |
 Apple |
 Pear |
 Flint |
The Italian Pinot Grigio is suitable for fish and light chicken dishes.
Pinot Gris (France)
Pinot Gris generally produces a round and full-bodied wine, with moderate acidity, and a pleasant after-taste. Sweet flowers, peaches, and some spice in the character are common in editions where the grapes have become properly ripe.
 Apple |
 Peach |
 Flowers |
 Spices |
In Alsace, Pinot Gris often replaces red wine and is used (especially if developed) for white meat dishes such as chicken and pig, and also for goose liver.
Pinot Gris in Europe
Pinot Grigio (Italy)
Pinot Grigio is a light and dry Italian white wine.
Refreshing as a cold glass of lemonade on a hot summer day.
Pinot Gris (France)
Pinot Gris from France (Alsace) and Pinot Grigio from Italy is the same grape.
But the Alsatian version of the wine is more fruity with more aroma and sweetness.
Grauburgunder (Germany)
Grauburgunder is the German name for Pinot Grigio.
Ruländer (Germany)
Ruländer is a German Off-Dry french style Pinot Gris.
Grauburgunder (Austria)
Grauburgunder was brought from Burgundy to Austria in the 13th or 14th century by Cistercian monks.
In the New World
Pinot Grigio (USA)
Pinot Grigio on the label, indicates a wine in the light Italian style.
Pinot Gris (USA)
Pinot Gris on the label, indicates a wine made in an off-dry Alsatian style.
Pinot Gris (New Zealand)
New Zealand Pinot Gris is more like the Alsatian style.
Pinot Grigio (Australia)
Pinot Grigio on the label, indicates a light Italian style.
Pinot Gris (Australia)
Pinot Gris on the label, indicates a richer French style.
Pinot Gris (Chile)
Pinot Gris from Chile is where the Alsatian style meets the Italian style.