4.7 | Principal White Grape Variety - Pinot Grigio/Pinot Gris

Question 1

what climate does Pinot Gris/Pinot Grigio grow in?

Answer 1

cool to moderate climates (usually)

Question 2

what are the 2 distinct styles of pinot grigio/pinot gris and where are they produced?

Answer 2

1. common to Italy: high yields, harvested early when high acidity. Yields dry, light bodied simple wine with apple and lemon.
2. made in Friuli and Alsace: yields are controlled, and delayed harvesting ->riper grapes. higher sugar and lower acidity. More complex, full-bodied. Medium acidity. Lemon, stone fruit (peach), tropical (mango, banana)

Question 3

True/False: Pinot gris/grigio is usually matured in oak

Answer 3

false. usually fermented in inert vessels to preserve fruity flavors.

Question 4

True/false: Pinot gris/grigio is always a dry wine

Answer 4

false. though the lighter Italian style is usually fermented to dryness, the riper style sometimes fermentation is interrupted by removing yeast. to yield off dry/medium style that develops honey/ginger with bottle age

Question 5

What are the important regions for Pinot Gris/grigio?

Answer 5

Italy: Veneto, Delle Venezie, Friuli-Venezia Giulia

France: Alsace

Regionally Important Labelling Terms in Alsace:

Regional Appellation (Alsace AOC)
Alsace Grand Cru AOC
Vendanges Tardives

Question 6

What characterizes Pinot Grigio with label delle Venezie DOC or Veneto IGT from Veneto (northeast Italy)?

Answer 6

simple, unoaked, light bodied. Usually produced high-volume and inexpensive.

Question 7

True/False: Friuli-Venezia Giulia’s (northern Italy) Pinot Grigio are more complex and fuller-bodied than other Italian Pinot Grigio

Answer 7

true

Question 8

what are the key characteristics of Pinot Gris from Alsace AOC?

Answer 8

later-picked, extra-ripe grapes (more flavor and complexity)
medium acidity
range from dry to medium sweetness
medium to full body
aromas: peach, mango, ginger. develops honey in bottle
best wines made from grand cru vineyards

Question 9

true/false: Alsace wines are usually named by region, not grape variety

Answer 9

false. alsace wines are typically labelled with grape variety

Question 10

true/false: Pinot Gris is eligible for Grand Cru status in Alsace

Answer 10

true. Like Riesling and Gewurtztraminer, Pinot Gris is eligible for Alsace Grand Cru status. this covers vineyards in steep foothills of Vosges Mountains (more sunglight and riper flavors and fuller body, south/southeast facing)