The Most Perfect Pinot Gris/Grigio Wine Pairings
What is Pinot Grigio?
Pinot Grigio, aka Pinot Gris, is a grey grape variety that is a color mutation of Pinot Noir. This mutation is believed to have happened in Burgundy sometime in history, but this grape is best known as Pinot Grigio in Northern Italy and Pinot Gris in Alsace in France. It has also found a home in Oregon.
Differences between Pinot Grigio and Pinot Gris
Pinot Gris originates in France and is harvested at the latest possible point of ripeness. Pinot Gris can be slightly richer, a little more full-bodied, and oily. The flavors tend to be fruitier and more pronounced. The wines have a richer texture in Alsace and show tropical fruits and floral aromas.
In contrast, Pinot Grigio is the same grape variety as Pinot Gris. Pinot Grigio is the Italian name for this variety. The grapes are harvested much earlier than their French counterparts. The grapes produce a much lighter, crisper, and zestier flavored wine. In addition, Pinot Grigio grapes have a higher acidity level, and the wine is less fruity than the French Pinot Gris. The wines are pretty fresh, clean, and relatively neutral in flavor in Italy.
What Food does Pinot Grigio Pair Best With?
For Italian Pinot Grigio, it’s a good rule of thumb to go with “if it grows together, it goes together.” Cured meats, risotto, and salads. Alsatian and Oregon Pinot Gris is fantastic with Asian cuisines and washed rind cheeses.
Perfect Pinot Gris/Grigio Wine Pairings:
Veal Milanese
Check Out Recipe via Food Network – Giada De Laurentis
Shrimp Scampi
Check Out Recipe via Allrecipes
Croque Monsieur
Check Out Recipe via Food Network – Ina Garten
Spaghetti Carbonara
Check Out Recipe via Serious Eats
Chicken Lo Mein
Risotto w/ Spring Peas and Pecorino
Check Out Recipe via The Yellow Table
Speck & Prosciutto
Pinot Grigio especially from Trentino-Alto-Adige and cured meats such as Speck and Prosciutto are a match made in HEAVEN! Check out the amazing selection of cured meats from our favorite cheesemongers at MURRAY’S CHEESE! We can help you put together an AMAZING wine and cheese pairing experience!
Check Out Murray’s Mighty Meat Selection
Baked Ham
Roasted Pork Loin
Poached Shellfish
Sautéed White Fish
Creamy Cheeses
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