Pinot Gris (Pinot Grigio)

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    Pinot Gris is one of the noble varieties of Alsace. In Hungary, it is called Tokaj. Although it varies depending on the region, its high sugar content and mellow flavor have made it popular all over the world.

    What is Pinot Gris?

    It is a grape variety used to make dry white wine and Vendange Tardives (late-harvested naturally sweet wine), and is thought to have originated in Burgundy as a sub-variety of Pinot Noir. Noir is French for black, Blanc for white, and Gris for gray, and in Italian they are Nero, Bianco, and Grigio, respectively. Generally, the skin of grapes for red wine is a dark purple with a darkish color, and that for white wine is green, but this Gris is a light reddish purple, a color similar to that of Japanese varieties such as Koshu and Delaware.

    Pinot Gris is mostly grown in the Alsace region of France, but outside of France it is also grown in Hungary, Germany, Austria, and Italy, although the name varies.

    What are the characteristics of Pinot Gris?

    It is one of the varieties that grows in the coldest regions where grapes can be grown. It is characterized by its resistance to the cold of winter and early spring frost, and generally produces grapes with high sugar content and low acidity. In regions where the temperature is too high, the resulting grapes can lack acidity, have no structure, and produce an unbalanced wine with too high an alcohol content.

    The grape clusters and berries are small in size and are not often tightly packed. It is a relatively early-ripening variety.

    What are the characteristics of Pinot Gris' aroma and flavor?

    In addition to the aroma of tropical fruits such as pineapple and mango, fruity aromas such as apricot, and herbal aromas such as lemongrass, you can also feel nuances of honey and beeswax. In the case of dry types, it has a smooth mouthfeel, is fruity yet full-bodied, and has a long aftertaste.

    In the case of naturally sweet coffee, you may also notice some hints of honey, subtle spices, and a hint of smokiness. The flavor is truly mellow, making for a very satisfying drink.

    Basic pairings for Pinot Gris

    Dry types, despite being white wines, have a firm structure and a full mouthfeel, so they go well with all kinds of pork dishes. They also go well with Alsace specialty choucroute, as well as pâté en croute (pâté wrapped in pastry) that appears as an appetizer. For seafood, they go well with sauteed dishes in butter.

    For sweeter flavors, it pairs excellently with tarts and cakes made with lemon, orange, or grapefruit, as well as blue cheese.