Pinot Grigio | Pinot Gris

Question 1

Under the following headings describe the two wines
Wine A: Pinot Grigio
Wine B: Pinot Gris

Sweetness and body?

Answer 1

• Wine A is dry with light body

* Wine B could be dry to medium sweet and is full bodied

Question 2

Under the following headings describe the two wines
Wine A: Pinot Grigio
Wine B: Pinot Gris

Aroma and flavour characteristics

Answer 2

• Wine A is likely to be neutral/simple with citrus and green fruit
• Wine B has stone fruit, tropical fruits, dried fruits and flavours
such as honey and ginger

Question 3

Expected quality

Under the following headings describe the two wines
Wine A: Pinot Grigio
Wine B: Pinot Gris

Answer 3

Expected quality
• Wine A is acceptable or good quality
• Wine B is very good or outstanding

Question 4

Describe the key natural factors in Alsace and explain how these contribute to the style of
Wine B. Pinot Gris

Answer 4

Natural factors and explanation for style
• Cool to moderate climate Wines retain acidity
• Vosges Mountains shelter vineyards from prevailing westerly winds and rain
This results in sunny summers and dry autumns, which is essential for ‘Late Harvest’
wines and ensures grapes can achieve high levels of sugar ripeness
• Long dry autumns This leads to suitable conditions for grapes to undergo passerillage or
Noble Rot, a feature of many ‘Late Harvest’ wines
• The best vineyards are located on steepest slopes with east/south-east aspects They
gain maximum sun exposure and achieve maximum ripeness

Question 5

Large, old oak barrels used in Alsace have little influence on the wines’ aromas. Explain why. (3 marks)

Answer 5

• The old wood has lost its flavour
• There is a small amount of oak to volume of wine
• The thick layer of tartrates shields the wine from the wood

Question 6

Wine B was sealed with a natural cork. What storage conditions would you recommend for
the long-term ageing of this wine? (5 marks)

Wine B: Pinot Gris

Answer 6

• A cool and constant temperature, preferably between 10 and 15 degrees celsius
• Avoid extremes of heat and cold which can cause damage
• Avoid extended periods of refrigeration which can cause corks to harden and lose their
elasticity
• Store wine that is sealed with a cork on its side to ensure the cork remains in contact
with the wine
• Avoid strong light, both natural and artificial
• Keep wine away from vibrations
(A maximum of 5 marks