Pinot Gris in France

Pinot Gris originated in Bourgogne, but has shown its best potential in Alsace.

In Alsace, Pinot Gris is considered a noble grape, where is was first known as Tokaj d'Alsace.

Alsatian Pinot Gris is quite different in taste than those from other regions.

The Alsatian version is typically a little off-dry.

Alsace, located in northeastern France, is characterized by several key natural factors that significantly influence the style of Pinot Gris wines produced in the region.

These natural factors work together to create Pinot Gris wines that are rich, aromatic, and full-bodied, with a potential for aging that sets them apart from their lighter counterparts like Pinot Grigio.

Key Natural Factors

• Climate
  Alsace has a continental climate with cold winters and warm, dry summers. The region benefits from a long growing season, allowing grapes to ripen fully and develop rich flavors.

• Topography
  The vineyards are situated along the eastern slopes of the Vosges Mountains. This topography provides excellent sun exposure and drainage, which are crucial for grape quality.

• Soil
  The soils in Alsace are diverse, including granite, limestone, clay, and volcanic soils. These varied soil types contribute to the complexity and depth of flavors in the wines.

• Rainfall
  Alsace receives relatively low rainfall, which helps concentrate the flavors in the grapes. The region is also in the rain shadow of the Vosges Mountains, further reducing the risk of excessive moisture.

Contribution to Pinot Gris Style

• Ripeness and Flavor Development
  The long, warm growing season allows Pinot Gris grapes to achieve full ripeness, resulting in wines with rich, concentrated flavors. You will often find notes of ripe stone fruits like peach and apricot, along with hints of honey and spice.

• Aromatic Complexity
  The diverse soils and excellent sun exposure contribute to the aromatic complexity of Pinot Gris wines. Expect a bouquet of floral, fruity, and sometimes smoky or earthy notes.

• Structure and Balance
  The well-drained soils and dry climate help produce grapes with balanced acidity and moderate alcohol levels, giving the wines a fresh and lively character.

• Age-Worthiness
  The combination of ripe fruit flavors, balanced acidity, and complex aromas makes Alsace Pinot Gris wines suitable for aging, allowing them to develop additional layers of flavor over time.

Large Oak Barrels

Large, old oak barrels used in Alsace have little influence on the wines' aromas because of two factors:

• Size
  Larger barrels have a smaller surface area-to-volume ratio compared to smaller barrels. This means less wine comes into contact with the wood, which reduces the transfer of oak flavors and aromas into the wine.

• Age
  Old barrels have already been used multiple times, which means most of the easily extractable flavors and tannins from the wood have already been leached out in previous uses. As a result, old barrels contribute very little in terms of new oak characteristics.

Winemaking Intent

Winemaking Intent result in wines that showcase the distinctive fruit and terroir-driven qualities of Alsace, with minimal influence from the oak:

• Preservation of Fruit Character
  Winemakers in Alsace often aim to preserve the pure, primary fruit characteristics and the unique expression of their terroir. By using old, large barrels, they can ensure that the oak influence remains subtle, allowing the natural fruit flavors and aromas of the grapes to shine through.

• Gentle Oxygenation
  Old, large barrels still allow for a controlled, gentle oxygenation process, which can help to round out the wine and add complexity without imparting strong oak flavors. This method helps to enhance the texture and integrate the wine's components without overshadowing the inherent varietal and regional characteristics.