TALES OF VARIETALS VOLUME 3: PINOT GRIGIO & PINOT GRIS - TWO SIDES OF THE SAME COIN

If you have been a wine drinker for a little while it is quite likely that you have already heard about or even tasted Pinot Grigio, the wine that seems to be on every restaurant menu and at every social gathering. It's light, refreshing, and easy to drink - which makes it a crowd-pleaser. But, did you know that Pinot Grigio and Pinot Gris are actually the same grape? That’s right, Pinot Grigio is just the Italian name for the grape, while Pinot Gris is the French name. And, like any language barrier, the difference in names can lead to some pretty significant style differences.

Pinot Gris is the French version of the wine and tends to be fuller-bodied and richer than its Italian counterpart. Made from ripe berries it can be made in an oxidative way (oak aging) and is known for its complex aromas and flavors, with notes of peaches, apricot as well as nutty creamy and buttery notes along with a hint of spice. When you take a sip of Pinot Gris, you’re in for a treat with its luscious mouthfeel and long, lingering finish. It’s the kind of wine that makes you want to slow down and savor every sip.

On the other hand, we have Pinot Grigio, the Italian version of the grape. Pinot Grigio is typically lighter in body and simpler in flavor than Pinot Gris. It’s known for its crisp acidity and fresh, zesty citrus notes along with floral notes such as Jasmin or Chamomile. Pinot Grigio is the kind of wine that you can sip on all day long without feeling overwhelmed. It’s the perfect wine to pair with light salads, seafood, and anything that needs a little bit of zing. For a great example of Pinot Grigio available here in Hua Hin, look for the Livon Pinot Grigio or the wines of Livio Felluga.

Now, when it comes to the style differences between Pinot Gris and Pinot Grigio, I like to think of it as the difference between a fancy dinner party and a backyard barbecue. Pinot Gris is like the fancy dinner party. It's elegant, refined, and sophisticated. You dress up, you use your good stemware, and you have a nice, sit-down meal. Pinot Grigio, on the other hand, is like the backyard barbecue. It's casual, laid-back, and easy-going. You throw on your flip-flops, you grab a paper plate, and you hang out with your friends.

It is important to note that there are some winemakers out there who take Pinot Grigio to the next level, infusing it with complex flavors and aromas that rival its French cousin. But, for the most part, Pinot Grigio is a wine that’s meant to be enjoyed for its simplicity and refreshing qualities.

You might also pick up a bottle of Pinot Gris or Pinot Grigio from another county than France or Italy and typically the name they will choose to display on the bottle will refer to the style of wine they chose to express, very much like the difference between Shiraz and Syrah. That might actually be the topic of our next column!

Italasia Hua Hin

063 535 2590 (Thai)

097 415 4245 (English, French, Korean) email: br-huahin@italasiagroup.com

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