Pinot Gris and Pinot Grigio are both made from the same grape variety, but they can have different flavor profiles and levels of sweetness. Pinot Grigio is often associated with a drier and crisper style, while Pinot Gris can have a bit more sweetness and complexity.
The difference in sweetness between Pinot Gris and Pinot Grigio mainly comes from how the winemaker has produced the wine. Pinot Grigio is typically made with minimal skin contact, resulting in a lighter and less complex wine. The high acidity in Pinot Grigio can make it taste less sweet compared to other white wines.
On the other hand, Pinot Gris can be made with a longer skin contact, which extracts more flavors and can contribute to a slightly sweeter taste. This extended skin contact can give Pinot Gris a deeper color and a richer mouthfeel. Some winemakers may also choose to leave a touch of residual sugar in the wine, adding to its sweetness.
It's important to note that not all Pinot Gris wines are sweet. There are dry styles of Pinot Gris that have minimal residual sugar and showcase the grape's natural acidity and fruit flavors. These dry styles can be refreshing and crisp, similar to a Pinot Grigio.
Personal preference plays a significant role when it comes to determining which wine is sweeter. Some people may perceive the fruit flavors and richness in Pinot Gris as sweetness, even if the wine is technically dry. Others may find Pinot Grigio to be drier and less sweet due to its higher acidity.
To truly understand the sweetness level of a Pinot Gris or Pinot Grigio, it's best to look at the wine's specific tasting notes or speak with the winemaker or sommelier. They can provide more information about the winemaking techniques used and the expected flavor profile of the wine.
Ultimately, whether you prefer a sweeter or drier style of wine is subjective and depends on your personal taste preferences. Exploring different bottles of Pinot Gris and Pinot Grigio from various regions and producers can help you discover the styles that suit your palate the best.