Grapes · White grape

Pinot Grigio / Pinot Gris

Two names, two styles. Italian Pinot Grigio is light, crisp and neutral; Alsace Pinot Gris is rich, spicy and sometimes off-dry. Skins are pinkish-grey.

Also known as: Grauburgunder / Ruländer (Germany)

On the nose

Young wines (primary aromas)

  • lemon
  • green apple
  • pear
  • white peach
  • almond
  • honeysuckle

Oak & winemaking (secondary)

  • rarely oaked

With bottle age (tertiary)

  • honey
  • ginger
  • smoke

On the palate

Pinot Grigio: dry, light body, medium acidity, crisp. Pinot Gris: medium to full body, oily texture, spicy, sometimes off-dry.

Tasting tip

Pear and a touch of almond with a hint of spice on a rich palate point to Pinot Gris.

Often confused with

Chardonnay (unoaked), Pinot Blanc, Gewürztraminer (much more aromatic).

Where it grows