Pinot Gris: Complete Guide to the Versatile White Grape Variety

Pinot Gris is a mutation of Pinot Noir, grown under radically different names and styles across the world.

I. Genetic Origins

• Pinot Gris originated as a natural mutation of Pinot Noir in Burgundy, where it was mentioned as early as the Middle Ages under the name Fromenteau.
• Imported to Alsace in the 16th century, it took the name Tokay d’Alsace, a designation definitively replaced by Pinot Gris in 2007.

II. Regional Styles

• Alsace (Pinot Gris): opulent wines, often slightly off-dry, with aromas of yellow fruits, smoke, and honey. Classified among the noble Alsace grape varieties authorized for Grand Cru.
• Italy (Pinot Grigio): dry, light, and refreshing wines, extremely popular in northeastern Italy (Veneto, Friuli, Trentino). The most widely consumed style in the world.
• Germany (Grauburgunder / Ruländer): depending on style, either dry mineral wines (Grauburgunder) or rich sweet wines (Ruländer).
• Oregon (United States): dry, textured Pinot Gris, bridging the gap between the rich Alsatian style and the lighter Italian style.

III. Tasting Profile

• Pinot Gris displays a color ranging from straw yellow to coppery gold, depending on terroir and winemaking.
• Dominant aromas include pear, apple, white peach, often enhanced by notes of almond, honey, and smoke.
• Its natural richness in glycerol gives the wines a silky texture on the palate, even in dry versions.