Introduction: Pinot gris (grigio) white wine
In our online store you will find single-varietal Pinot gris wines as well as assemblages with the Pinot gris grape. Our range also includes numerous other white wines, rosé wines, red wines and sparkling wines. Lovers of high-proof spirits will also find an exquisite selection of digestifs in the shop.
If you are looking for a gift, we recommend the various tasting boxes from our gift service, for example, or a gift voucher, which gives the recipient a free choice in our online shop.
The most important facts about Pinot grigio (Pinot gris) at a glance
- Pinot Gris is the name of a color mutation of the Pinot Noir grape and comes from the Burgundy family in France.
- The global cultivation area of this variety is just under 50,000 hectares. The most important cultivation area in the world for these wines (called Pinot grigio in Italy) is Italy with around 19,000 hectares, followed by Germany (Pinot gris, Pinot gris or Ruländer) with 6,400 hectares. Australia, France and New Zealand follow in second place. In Switzerland, the wine regions of Valais and German-speaking Switzerland are leaders in the cultivation of this variety.
- In Germany, the name Ruländer is also used for the Pinot gris grape variety alongside Pinot gris. This is attributed to the fact that a certain Johann Seger Ruland discovered this wild vine in a garden in Speyer in 1711. In Italy, the term Pinot Gris is translated as Pinot grigio. In Switzerland, particularly in French-speaking Switzerland and therefore also in Valais, the Pinot gris grape is also known as Malvoisie.
- The variety produces wines that are known for being rather low in acidity, but rich in extract with a generally high alcohol content. In Valais, it is pressed into excellent vin noble.
Origin, origins & significance of the Pinot gris grape variety
Now widespread throughout the world and enjoying great popularity, the Pinot gris grape originally comes either from Champagne, but more likely from Burgundy. It belongs to the Burgundy family and is classified as a noble grape(Vitis vinifera subsp. vinifera).
The grape came to Germany via Hungary and then eventually to Switzerland. Of the almost 50,000 hectares produced worldwide, only around 240 hectares are cultivated here. The lion’s share of the global cultivation area is found in Italy with around 18,000 hectares.
While the lighter, modern version known as Pinot Gris and the heavier version known as Ruländer have established themselves in Germany, a Malvoisie is produced in Valais in Switzerland, which has the character of a full-bodied sweet wine.
Pinot gris and its synonyms
There are almost 230 synonyms for this variety, an indication of its wide distribution. The most important synonyms are above all Pinot Gris, Pinot Gris or Ruländer in Germany, but also in Austria. In France, in neighboring Luxembourg and even overseas in Australia, the grape is called Pinot gris. In Italy, it is called Pinot grigio, in Valais in Switzerland exclusively Malvoisie. The mutation is also known to wine lovers under synonyms such as Auvernat gris, Grauer Klevner or Strahler.
Characteristics of the Pinot gris grape: growth, ripeness and yield
The berries are roundish to oval, medium-sized and vary in color from reddish to red. Fully ripe grapes often appear gray, as if covered by a kind of gray veil. The skin of the berries is thin to medium thick. The berries of this early ripening variety are not only susceptible to downy mildew, but also to late spring frosts. On the other hand, the variety is quite resistant to winter frost if the wood ripens well.
Flavor profile of Pinot gris : Low acidity, nice freshness and full-bodied
The wines made from Pinot gris generally have a strong golden yellow color in the glass. In very good vintages that produce very good quality, light brown tones can also be seen in some cases.
The Pinot gris has a light apple note and a lovely freshness. Its tangy, fruity character is complemented by aromas of peach, quince, almonds, honey and figs.
Pinot gris and food: The best combinations
The classic Pinot grigio as a food companion
Pinot gris (Pinot grigio) is one of those wines that can be enjoyed as an uncomplicated summer wine, as a stimulating aperitif wine or as a complex accompaniment to food thanks to its many facets. It is an excellent accompaniment to starters and poultry or fish dishes as well as all dishes with white meat and mushroom dishes. It is also the right choice for desserts with puff pastry and pears or apples. Our tip: try this white wine with some mild cheese – a poem!
The Pinot Gris from Valais in Switzerland as a food companion
The white wine pressed in Valais as Malvoisie not only captivates with its honey and almond aromas. It also has a seductive residual sweetness and is therefore particularly suitable with all kinds of sweet dishes, mature cheeses and spicy dishes from Asian cuisine. Our tip: Enjoy the Malvoisie from our house with a fine goose liver on toasted bread.
Interesting facts about Pinot grigio (gris)
Here is an overview of important facts about the Pinot grigio (gris) grape variety.
What does Pinot Gris mean in German?
Pinot Gris is a French term for a grape variety and means Pinot Gris.
Is Pinot Gris sweet?
Known as Pinot Gris, this wine presents a floral aroma of rose petals with a slightly smoky note. In the mouth, it is pleasantly sweet and smooth, with salty nuances on the finish. This wine is particularly suitable for gastronomy and has slightly smoky notes.
What does Pinot gris taste like?
In Italy, the grape is known as Pinot Grigio (Pinot Gris or Pinot Gris). The wine made from it typically has a light, straw-yellow color and a light body. It impresses with aromas of citrus fruits, apples and peaches as well as a pronounced acidity.
What goes well with Pinot gris?
First-class Pinot Gris wines harmonize wonderfully with seafood, grilled fish, braised veal and young game.
Is Pinot Gris the same as Pinot Gris?
Pinot Gris, also known as Pinot Grigio or Pinot Gris, develops a reddish berry skin when ripe, which makes it look like a red grape variety, even though it is used to make white wine. In Germany, this ever-popular grape variety is known as Grauburgunder or Ruländer.
What does a Pinot Grigio taste like?
Pinot Grigio is the name by which this grape is known in Italy. The wine made from it typically has a light, straw-yellow color and a light body. It captivates with aromas of citrus fruits, apples and peaches and is usually characterized by a lively acidity.
Which Pinot Grigio grape?
Pinot Gris, also known as Pinot Grigio, is the Italian name for the grape variety. These terms refer to white wines made from the French grape variety Pinot Gris.
