What is Pinot Grigio?

Pinot Grigio is a white wine grape variety that originated from France and is also known as Pinot Gris in some regions. It is now widely produced in Italy, where it has garnered global appeal. Pinot Grigio grapes are famous for their grayish-blue hue and are grown worldwide, but they are most commonly found in Italy’s northeastern regions of Friuli-Venezia Giulia, Trentino-Alto Adige, and Veneto.

The climate and terroir of these regions have contributed significantly to the development of Pinot Grigio’s unique taste and aroma.

Why Pinot Grigio is Popular in the Summer?

Pinot Grigio is often considered the perfect wine for summer sipping for several reasons:

• It is light-bodied and refreshing, making it a popular choice for hot summer weather.
• It has a fruity aroma with subtle floral hints that makes it easy to drink.
• It pairs well with light summer cuisine such as seafood, salads, and grilled vegetables.
• It is an enjoyable drink for outdoor gatherings such as picnics and beach parties.
• It is widely available at a range of price points, making it accessible to most consumers.

Pairing with Pinot Grigio

Pinot Grigio is a versatile wine that pairs well with a variety of summer dishes. Here are some popular pairing options:

It is, however, important to note that wine pairing is subjective. Experiment with different pairings to find your perfect match.

Types of Pinot Grigio

There are several styles of Pinot Grigio, each with its unique characteristics:

• Light-bodied Pinot Grigio: This is the most common style, with crisp acidity and flavors of lemon, lime, and green apple.
• Unoaked Pinot Grigio: This type is fermented in stainless steel tanks and has fresh acidity with hints of citrus and tropical fruits.
• Oaked Pinot Grigio: This style is aged in oak barrels and has a richer mouthfeel with flavors of vanilla, almond, and caramel.
• Sweet Pinot Grigio: This type is made with grapes that are left on the vine longer, resulting in a higher sugar content. It has a fruity taste with a sweet finish.

When selecting a Pinot Grigio, consider the food pairing, your taste preference, and the occasion.

Myths and Facts about Pinot Grigio

Over time, several myths and misconceptions have arisen regarding Pinot Grigio. Here are some of the common ones:

• Myth: Pinot Grigio is only a cheap wine used for making spritzers.
• Fact: While it is true that Pinot Grigio is relatively inexpensive, that does not make it an inferior wine. In fact, some high-quality Pinot Grigio wines are produced in Italy and other regions.
• Myth: All Pinot Grigio wines taste the same.
• Fact: Pinot Grigio wines vary in taste, depending on the region, type, and style. Some are light and crisp, while others are full-bodied and oaky.
• Myth: Pinot Grigio is always drunk cold.
• Fact: While it is often served chilled, Pinot Grigio can be drunk at room temperature, especially the oaked or sweet varieties.