A bottle of Pinot Grigio might seem like a simple choice, but it represents one of the wine world’s most commercially successful rebrands.
Genetically identical to Pinot Gris, this grape gained global fame under its Italian name, largely due to strategic marketing in the US during the 1970s. (source)
Now it’s grown all over the world - from Italy to Australia - and each region gives the wine a slightly different taste, depending on the climate, soil, and how it’s made.
In this blog, you’ll read how a bottle of Pinot Grigio is made, why it’s become one of the world’s most popular white wines, and some key facts to know before you buy or try it.
Made from a Red Grape (Kind of!)
Pinot Grigio is actually made from a grape that has a grayish-blue to pinkish skin - not fully red, but definitely darker than typical white grapes. It’s a mutation of Pinot Noir, which is a red grape.
Despite the darker skin, winemakers press the grapes gently and quickly remove the skins, preventing any significant color transfer to the juice - hence, it becomes a white wine.
If the skins are left in contact longer, the wine can develop a rose or coppery hue - especially in northern Italy or some natural winemaking styles. A bottle of pinot grigio is typically light and pale in color because of its winemaking process.
Imported White Wines in the US
Pinot Grigio was the 3rd most imported white wine in the US after Chardonnay and Sauvignon Blanc.
However, as of now, bottles of pinot grigio are the No. 1 imported wine type in the US. Its popularity grew in the early 2000s, in part due to being perceived as a more refreshing, less oaky alternative to Chardonnays. (source)
White wines typically carry complex flavor profiles but the bottle of pinot grigio is known for its light body and easy-going taste, which is substantially favored by casual and experienced drinkers.
Its crisp acidity and clean finish make it a perfect companion for a variety of dishes, from seafood to salads and lighter meals.
Pinot Grigio's light and fruity notes, often including citrus and green apple, are widely appealing and make it a popular choice for both casual and sophisticated palates.
Some producers and importers have successfully worked to elevate the reputation of a bottle of Pinot Grigio, focusing on better sites, farming practices, and innovative clones, further contributing to its popularity.
Pinot Grigio is widely available, from household-name brands to cellar-worthy bottles, making it accessible for a broad range of consumers.
Lower in Calories Than Fuller-Bodied Whites
A typical 5 oz pour of pinot grigio has around 120 calories, mainly due to its lower alcohol content (usually 8%-12.5%) and minimal residual sugar.
A bottle of pinot grigio will generally be lower in calories than fuller-bodied whites, making it a good option for those mindful of their calorie intake.
If we compare that to some fuller-bodied white wines like Chardonnay. It can hit 130-150 calories per glass because of higher alcohol content (13.5-15.5%) and sometimes more sugar and added richness from oak aging or malolactic fermentation. (source)
The best bottle of pinot grigio often comes from Italy. However, other regions like California and Oregon are also known for producing high-quality bottles of this wine.
The cooler climates of the Italian Alps or the coastal regions tend to produce wines with more acidity and a cleaner taste, while warmer climates may offer a richer, fruitier style. For example:
Santa Margherita Pinot Grigio (Alto Adige, Italy)—known for its crisp, clean taste with notes of green apple and citrus, it represents a classic Italian style.
King Estate Pinot Grigio (Oregon, USA)—Offers a richer, fruit-forward style with flavors of pear and melon, influenced by warmer, longer growing seasons in Oregon.
Pinot Grigio is generally best enjoyed within a year or two of release. Over time, the fresh acidity and vibrant fruitiness can fade and it may lose its refreshing qualities. According to Coravin, its flavors and crispiness may diminish with age.
A bottle of pinot grigio can vary widely in price, from budget-friendly options to premium bottles. Its prices can range from as low as $15 to some high-end wines reaching about $262. Mid-range bottles often offer the best value, providing a great experience without breaking the bank. (source)
Pinot Grigio is a highly versatile wine, and its flavor profile can range from bright citrusy notes to more floral or mineral undertones.
If you prefer a crisper, cleaner taste, look for wines with higher acidity, often found in cooler climates. For a fuller, rounder profile, you might enjoy a wine that has been aged in oak.
Even though a bottle of Pinot Grigio and Pinot Gris are actually the same grape, different countries have created totally different styles from it. This is mostly due to how people expect it to taste, not because the grape itself is different.
And now, with climate change affecting traditional wine regions, new places like England and Northern Europe are starting to grow Pinot Grigio too.
So when you pour yourself a glass, you’re not just enjoying a classic: you’re tasting how wine, climate, and culture are constantly shifting together. If you’re up for exploring a wide variety of Pinot Grigio, check out 7201 BRBR, an online shop offering a carefully curated selection delivered right to your door. Visit now!
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