‘Pinot Grigio’ or ‘Pinot Gris’ originated in the Burgundy regions of France. Being a white grape variety it was popularly planted in Burgundy until the 18th and 19th Century but unreliable crops caused the grape to fall out of favor in those areas resulting in production of clonal varieities in the 20th century.
Research has revealed that this grape variety is remarkably similar in its DNA profile to Pinot Noir and that the colour difference in derived from the genetic mutation that occurred centuries ago. The wine derived from this grape is considered to be an ‘early to market wine’ which can be bottled out in the market within 4-12 weeks after fermentation. The wines produced from this grape also vary in color from a deep golden yellow to copper and even a light shade of pink, and it is one of the more popular grapes for Orange Wine. The clone of Pinot gris grown in Italy is known as Pinot Grigio.
Interesting Facts
The spiritual home of Pinot Grigio is Northern Italy especially Friuli-Venezia and the Alto Adige.
The texture of Pinot Grigio is almost silk like and smooth which is worth noting.