When grapes are grown in cold climates, for example, wines tend to be light, delicate, with fruity aromas and floral notes; when produced in warmer regions, they tend to be fuller and more acidic.
Whether by the French or Italian designation, the uva The Pinot Gris or Pinot Grigio wine is of Gaulish origin and is the result of crossing Pinot Noir with Pinot Blanc, grown in Burgundy and Alsace. It is a white grape variety that, curiously, has a slightly darker color than the better known white grapes. The Italians, even on account of the migratory currents, especially those from the north of Italy, Veneto and Friulli, is what made it known around the world, so much so that the designation of “Pinot Grigio” is predominant in the world. From Italy, the largest producers of Pinot Grigio wines are mainly concentrated in the regions of Trentino and Friuli, in the northeast of the country. From there, labels come out with more delicate, citric, light and refreshing aromas; in Italy, such grapes are often harvested early to maintain the acidity of the wines.
When grown in cold climates, for example, wines tend to be light, delicate, with fruity aromas and floral notes. When produced in warmer regions, the wines tend to be more full-bodied and acidic. It is worth mentioning that Pinot Gris wines, produced in France, are usually fruity, full-bodied wines with accentuated aromas, as opposed to Italian ones. In the New World, one of the most important countries in the cultivation of Pinot Grigio is the United States. In the California region, for example, it is possible to find wines labeled Pinot Gris, which have a more bodied style as in Alsace, and also liquids with the name Pinot Grigio, being the lighter and fresher style. In Oregon, the grape has adapted very well and has become one of the most planted whites, and its wines follow the Pinot Gris style. Another region where the variety is popular is in Washington State, being the third most planted white grape.
Aside from this North American productive characteristic, it is important to point out that it is also possible to find great Pinot Grigio or Pinot Gris grape labels in countries such as Argentina, Australia, New Zealand, South Africa and Brazil. The freshness and acidity of the grape variety’s wines, when vinified with Italian characteristics, allow a unique versatility in pairings, going well with light dishes, such as salads, fish and seafood in general. Pinot Grigio wines can also go very well with pasta, poultry, lean meats and various cheeses. As it is a white with acidity and freshness, it is recommended that it be served well refreshed and that it be drunk young, which does not prevent opting to cellar it for a few years, starting from the vintage.
I will suggest some wines from this variety, starting with La Bellanotte – Pinot Grigio, a Friulli wine that goes very well with white cheeses and pizza. Fantinel Borgo Tesis Pinot Grigio Doc Friuli is light, fresh, fruity, with a floral touch and a good finish. Arte De Argento Pinot Grigio, Argentinian, has a very good price and is delicate, with fruity notes and ripe flavors, where apricots and peaches stand out, going very well with poultry. The national one, Miolo Reserva Pinot Grigio, is ideal as an aperitif and can also accompany salads, fish, white meat and pasta. Finally, Villa Cardeto is a Pinot Grigio from Umbria IGP, it has a medium to full body, quite persuasive, going very well with shellfish, clams and more rustic crustaceans. Pinot Grigio is an excellent choice of white wine for our tropical climate. Health!
*This text does not necessarily reflect the opinion of Jovem Pan.
