The grape variety Pinot Grigio

Pinot Grigio is a renowned white grape variety celebrated for its crisp, refreshing profile and widespread appeal. The aromatic profile is typically subtle, featuring delicate notes of green apple, pear, citrus zest, and hints of white flowers. On the palate, Pinot Grigio is light to medium-bodied with vibrant acidity, offering flavors of lemon, lime, green melon, and occasionally a touch of almond or saline minerality. The finish is clean and often pleasantly dry.

This varietal thrives in several prominent wine regions. Northern Italy, particularly in the Veneto, Friuli-Venezia Giulia, and Trentino-Alto Adige regions, produces benchmark Pinot Grigio wines known for their purity and finesse. It is also cultivated successfully in the United States—most notably California and Oregon—as well as in parts of Australia.

Pinot Grigio is typically vinified in a dry, unoaked style, emphasizing freshness and minerality. However, some regions craft richer, more textural examples. It excels as a versatile wine partner, pairing beautifully with light seafood dishes, fresh salads, grilled chicken, or mild cheeses. Its zesty acidity also complements Asian cuisine and vegetable-based appetizers, making it an ideal choice for numerous dining occasions.