Pinot Grigio, also known as Pinot Gris in some regions, is a white wine grape variety that is widely grown in many wine regions around the world, including Italy, France, and the United States. The wine made from Pinot Grigio grapes is known for its light, crisp character and refreshing acidity, making it a popular choice for warm weather sipping.

One of the defining characteristics of Pinot Grigio is its light body, which makes it a refreshing choice for warmer weather or as a pre-dinner aperitif. Its crisp acidity also makes it a great option for food pairing, especially with lighter dishes such as salads, seafood, or white meats.

Another characteristic of Pinot Grigio is its versatility when it comes to style. The wine can range from dry to off-dry, with varying levels of fruitiness, minerality, and body. This versatility means that Pinot Grigio can be a good choice for a wide range of palates, from those who prefer a crisp, dry wine to those who prefer a slightly sweeter, fruitier style.

When shopping for Pinot Grigio, it’s important to consider the region in which the grapes were grown, as this can greatly impact the wine’s flavor profile. For example, Pinot Grigio from the Veneto region of Italy is often described as crisp and refreshing, with citrus and green apple flavors, while Pinot Gris from the Alsace region of France is often fuller-bodied and richer, with notes of peach, apricot, and spice.

Another factor to consider is whether the wine is made in a “New World” or “Old World” style. New World Pinot Grigios are generally more fruit-forward and crisp, while Old World Pinot Gris is typically more understated and has a more nuanced flavor profile.

When it comes to food pairing, Pinot Grigio is a versatile choice that can pair well with a range of lighter dishes, such as salads, seafood, or white meats. Its crisp acidity also makes it a good option for spicy foods, as it can help to balance the heat.

The most popular and best Pinot Grigio

The best Pinot Grigio can vary greatly depending on personal taste preferences and the desired flavor profile. However, some of the most highly regarded Pinot Grigio producing regions include:

1. Veneto, Italy – Veneto Pinot Grigios are known for their crisp acidity, light body, and fresh citrus and green apple flavors.

2. Friuli-Venezia Giulia, Italy – Friuli Pinot Grigios are known for their crisp acidity and bright fruit flavors, as well as their mineral notes.

3. Alsace, France – Alsace Pinot Gris is typically more full-bodied and rich, with a broader range of flavors including peach, apricot, and spice.

4. Oregon, United States – Oregon Pinot Gris are known for their bold, fruit-forward flavors and crisp acidity, with notes of pear, peach, and citrus.

5. Trentino-Alto Adige/Südtirol, Italy – Trentino Pinot Grigios are known for their crisp acidity and minerality, with flavors of green apple and lemon.

Some of the most well-known Pinot Grigio producers include Santa Margherita, Ruffino, and Vietti in Italy, and King Estate in Oregon.

When choosing a Pinot Grigio, it’s also important to consider the label, as this can give you an indication of the wine’s sweetness level. Pinot Grigio is often made in both dry and off-dry styles, so be sure to read the label to determine the wine’s sweetness level.

The best Pinot Grigio for you will depend on your personal taste preferences and the desired flavor profile. However, regions such as Veneto, Friuli-Venezia Giulia, Alsace, Oregon, and Trentino-Alto Adige/Südtirol are known for producing high-quality Pinot Grigios that are worth exploring.