Pinot Gris and Pinot Grigio are two different styles of wine made from the same grape variety, Pinot Gris/Grigio. While they may share the same grape, there are some key differences in the production process and resulting flavors.
1. Grape Ripeness: One of the main differences between Pinot Gris and Pinot Grigio lies in the ripeness of the grapes at harvest. Pinot Gris is typically harvested when the grapes are fully ripe, resulting in a higher sugar content. This leads to a fuller-bodied wine with a richer, more luscious texture. On the other hand, Pinot Grigio is often harvested earlier, when the grapes are less ripe, resulting in a lighter-bodied wine with higher acidity.
2. Wine Styles: Pinot Gris tends to be more full-bodied, with a rich and complex flavor profile. It often exhibits aromas of ripe tropical fruits such as pineapple and mango, along with notes of honey and spice. Pinot Grigio, on the other hand, is known for its crisp and refreshing character. It typically showcases citrus flavors such as lemon, lime, and grapefruit, with a clean and vibrant finish.
3. Acidity: Pinot Grigio is generally higher in acidity compared to Pinot Gris. This higher acidity gives Pinot Grigio its refreshing and zesty nature, making it a popular choice for pairing with food. Pinot Gris, with its lower acidity, has a softer mouthfeel and can be more rounded and velvety on the palate.
4. Winemaking Techniques: The winemaking techniques employed for Pinot Gris and Pinot Grigio can also contribute to their differences. Pinot Gris is often fermented and aged in oak barrels, which can add complexity and richness to the wine. Pinot Grigio, on the other hand, is typically fermented in stainless steel tanks, preserving its fresh and fruit-forward characteristics.
5. Regional Influence: The style of Pinot Gris and Pinot Grigio can also vary depending on the region where it is produced. Pinot Gris is commonly associated with Alsace, France, where it is known for its full-bodied and aromatic expressions. Pinot Grigio, on the other hand, is strongly associated with Italy, particularly the northeastern regions of Friuli-Venezia Giulia and Veneto. Italian Pinot Grigio tends to be lighter and crisper in style.
While both Pinot Gris and Pinot Grigio are made from the same grape variety, they can differ significantly in terms of flavor profile, body, acidity, and winemaking techniques. Pinot Gris tends to be fuller-bodied, with rich tropical fruit flavors, while Pinot Grigio is lighter-bodied, crisp, and citrus-focused. Exploring wines from different regions and producers can further showcase the diversity within these two styles.