Pinot Gris in Europe

Pinot Grigio (Italy)

Pinot Grigio is a light and dry Italian white wine.
Refreshing as a cold glass of lemonade on a hot summer day.

Pinot Gris (France)

Pinot Gris from France (Alsace) and Pinot Grigio from Italy is the same grape.
But the Alsatian version of the wine is more fruity with more aroma and sweetness.

Grauburgunder (Germany)

Grauburgunder is the German name for Pinot Grigio.

Ruländer (Germany)

Ruländer is a German Off-Dry french style Pinot Gris.

Grauburgunder (Austria)

Grauburgunder was brought from Burgundy to Austria in the 13th or 14th century by Cistercian monks.

In the New World

Pinot Grigio (USA)

Pinot Grigio on the label, indicates a wine in the light Italian style.

Pinot Gris (USA)

Pinot Gris on the label, indicates a wine made in an off-dry Alsatian style.

Pinot Gris (New Zealand)

New Zealand Pinot Gris is more like the Alsatian style.

Pinot Grigio (Australia)

Pinot Grigio on the label, indicates a light Italian style.

Pinot Gris (Australia)

Pinot Gris on the label, indicates a richer French style.

Pinot Gris (Chile)

Pinot Gris from Chile is where the Alsatian style meets the Italian style.

Pinot Grigio

Pinot Grigio originates from Burgundy (Pinot Gris), but its most famous expressions come from Italy and in Alsace (France).

It also grows in Germany and Austria under the name of Grauburgunder.

The Italians prefer their Pinot Grigio fresh and light. Therefore, they harvest the grape earlier than is common in Alsace.

Two distinctive style differences occur: fresh and light Italian Pinot Grigio, and rich and powerfull Pinot Gris.

To retain the fruity and citrusy aromas, Pinot Grigio is fermented in Steel Tanks (not in oak).

Crispy Lemon, Apple, and Pear flavors are typical for Pinot Grigio, with hints of Minerals:

Lemon

Apple

Pear

Flint

French Pinot Gris

Pinot Gris generally produces a round and full-bodied wine, with moderate acidity, and a pleasant after-taste. The wines are often reminiscent of Chardonnay, with some of Chardonnay's slightly neutral fruity character. Sweet flowers, peaches, and some spice in the character are common in editions where the grapes have become properly ripe.

In Alsace, Pinot Gris often replaces red wine and is used (especially if developed) for white meat dishes such as chicken and pig, and also for goose liver.