Pinot Gris Wines

Grown in Alsace, where it is known as Tokay Pinot Gris, and in Italy, where it is called Pinot Grigio, the wine styles they represent are clearly distinct from each other and hence are usually treated as if they were two distinct varieties. In Alsace, it produces rich honeyed, dry whites and also wonderful sweet late harvest wines, combining the heady perfume and rich aromas of Gewürztraminer with the acidity of Riesling. Furthermore, it ages well, developing fabulous rich, buttery characteristics and goes well with food. In contrast, the Grigio style grapes, grown mainly in northeast Italy, are harvested relatively early, in an attempt to retain as much fresh acidity as possible to make crisp, dry wines with plenty of freshness and zing, are intended for consumption within a year or two, and perform very well as an aperitif wine.