Pinot Noir vs Pinot Gris - Explore the delightful world of Pinot Noir and Pinot Gris, two versatile wines from the Pinot family. Discover their unique flavors, food pairings, and tips for wine lovers. Perfect for summer gatherings, these wines offer enjoyment for every occasion.
When it comes to exploring the fascinating world of wines, two varieties often capture the hearts of enthusiasts: Pinot Noir and Pinot Gris. Both hailing from the Burgundy region of France, these grapes share a rich history and a complex flavor profile, making them a joy for both newcomers and seasoned wine drinkers alike.
Pinot Noir is a renowned red wine variety known for its elegance and complexity. Originating from the Burgundy region, it is one of the most sought-after and expensive wines globally. However, Pinot Noir grapes are notoriously difficult to grow, earning it the nickname "heartbreak grape" due to its susceptibility to diseases. Despite these challenges, the rewards of cultivating Pinot Noir are immense, offering a noble grape that provides an exciting exploration for wine aficionados.
On the other hand, Pinot Gris is a white wine variety that also traces its roots back to Burgundy. It is a genetic mutation of Pinot Noir, sharing its DNA but presenting a different style. With fewer anthocyanins, Pinot Gris wines exhibit a lighter color. Pinot grapes are widely planted in Italy, where it is known as Pinot Grigio. Although the Pinot Gris grape is a white grape it is a key member of the Pinot family, which includes Pinot Blanc, Pinot Grigio, and of course, Pinot Noir.
Jump to:
- Why You Will Love These Wines
- Primary Flavors found in Pinot Noir vs Pinot Gris
- Pinot Noir vs Pinot Gris - Wine Characteristics
- Pinot Noir vs Pinot Gris Wine Serving Tips
- Where are Pinot Noir and Pinot Gris Grapes Grown?
- Best Food Pairings with Pinot Noir and Pinot Gris
- Other Great Food Pairings with Pinot Noir and Pinot Gris
- Best Pinot - Red or White?
- FAQ's
- More Wine Pairings and Wine Articles
Why You Will Love These Wines
Pinot Noir
- Most wine drinkers, whether they are novices or connoisseurs, absolutely love Pinot Noir.
- This red wine is light enough to enjoy even in the summertime.
- It pairs very well with most fish dishes, but can also hold its own to richer meat dishes like duck.
- Younger wines are less complex with prominent red fruit notes.
- High-quality Pinot Noir, especially from the cool climates of New Zealand or France, is elegant and complex. It ages beautifully, developing earthy and mineral notes over time.
- The price ranges between $25 and $1000+ per bottle.
- If you are stuck and unsure which wine to serve, you can usually get away with serving a Pinot Noir wine.
Pinot Gris
- This wine offers different fruit notes that are more subtle, including green apple, pear, and tropical fruit.
- It is easy to drink and ideal for sipping by the pool.
- Pinot Gris pairs easily with food.
- You can find good quality bottles for less than $15.
Primary Flavors found in Pinot Noir vs Pinot Gris
Pinot Noir
- Pinot Noir displays a distinctive flavor profile, depending on the vintage and different regions.
- The following flavors are generally present in this red wine.
- Pinot Noir grapes, grown in the cooler climate of France and New Zealand, have fruity flavors acquired from bright red cherry, raspberry, strawberry, cranberry, plum, currant, and pomegranate.
- They might also display slight floral notes of rose and violet.
- Secondary notes include chalk, mushroom, and earth.
Pinot Gris
- Warm climates yield tropical fruit flavors, while cool climates bring out green apple, lemon, pear, and white peach.
- You can expect subtle mineral notes with a dry finish, depending on the region.
- In Italian Pinot Grigio, expect bitter almond notes, whereas in French Pinot Gris, you may find faint honey notes from naturally developed noble rot.
Pinot Noir vs Pinot Gris - Wine Characteristics
Pinot Noir
- Profile: Pinot Noir is a medium dry wine.
- Body: It is a light to medium bodied red wine.
- Tannins: Pinot Noir has medium tannins.
- Acidity: It has high acidity.
- Alcohol: The alcohol content ranges from 13.5% to 14.5%.
Pinot Gris
- Profile: Pinot Gris is a dry wine.
- Body: It is a light to medium bodied white wine.
- Tannins: Pinot Gris has no tannins.
- Acidity: It has medium to high acidity.
- Alcohol: The alcohol content ranges from 10% to 13.5% making it a lower alcohol wine.
Pinot Noir vs Pinot Gris Wine Serving Tips
Pinot Noir
- Temperature: Serve at 60°F / 16°C.
- Decanting: Don't decant; Pinot Noir grapes are delicate with lower tannins.
- Decanting Note: It is a controversial subject; decanting might help open its complexities.
- Glass type: Aroma Collector.
Pinot Gris
- Temperature: Serve at 45 - 55°F / 7 - 12°C.
- Decanting: Don't decant Pinot Gris.
- Glass type: White wine glass.
Where are Pinot Noir and Pinot Gris Grapes Grown?
Pinot Noir
- France: Pinot Noir is primarily grown in the Burgundy region of France.
- Germany: Pinot Noir from Germany is grown in the Ahr region.
- United States - In the United States Pinot Noir is cultivated in California.
- New Zealand - Pinot Noir is also grown in the Central Otago region of New Zealand.
Pinot Gris
- Italy: Pinot Gris is grown in Northern Italy in the Veneto, Friuli-Venezia Giulia and Trentino-Alto Adige regions.
- United States: In the United States Pinot Gris is grown in Oregon.
- Germany: Pinot Gris from Germany is grown in the Baden and Rheinhessen regions.
- France: In France Pinot Gris is produced in the Alsace region.
Best Food Pairings with Pinot Noir and Pinot Gris
Pinot Noir
- Duck served with Pinot Noir is a classic food pairing.
- Pairing this popular wine with Gruyère de Comte, which is produced in the same area as the Pinot Noir grapes are grown, is a great choice.
- The flavor profile of Pinot Noir lends itself to being paired with lightly spiced Thai food.
- Avoid serving richly flavored food with this light red wine as it will overpower its delicacy.
Pinot Gris
- Ideal with Light Seafood Dishes and Creamy Sauces.
- Pairs wonderfully with foods that have a Fruit Element, such as Lemon, Peach, or Apricot.
- Pinot Gris is excellent when served with Brie and Camembert Cheeses.
Other Great Food Pairings with Pinot Noir and Pinot Gris
Pinot Noir
- Next time you have a dinner party, consider serving Grilled Trout. Pinot Noir is an excellent accompaniment.
- Pinot Noir is a great choice to pair with Aged Cheddar Cheese and Freshly Baked Bread. If you add a little Thyme, it will make it even better.
- Grilled Polenta with Charred Vegetables, Mushrooms, and Burrata is a delicious vegetarian option that highlights the fruity flavors in Pinot Noir.
- With its smooth tannins, Pinot Noir is a great wine to pair with Crayfish Tagliatelle.
- Try French Onion Soup with a glass of Pinot Noir. You will not be disappointed.
Pinot Gris
- Seared Scallops complement Pinot Gris perfectly.
- Cheese Souffle and a Green Salad with Mustard Vinaigrette are great choices to serve with Pinot Gris.
- Sushi, particularly Salmon Roses and Rainbow Sandwiches, pair wonderfully with this light white wine.
- Baby Marrow and Artichoke Tartlets are an elegant pairing with Pinot Gris.
Best Pinot - Red or White?
Pinot Noir
This light and elegant red wine is a popular choice for wine enthusiasts everywhere and is suitable for any occasion. Pinot Noir can be enjoyed in all seasons and paired with a variety of food. As one of the most popular red wines, Pinot Noir will be a fabulous gift for wine drinkers everywhere.
Pinot Gris
Pinot Gris is light, dry, crisp and very easy to drink. It is fantastic for a hot summer day and pairs well with most foods. It is versatile enough to enjoy on its own or with a meal. Pinot Gris is an excellent choice for both casual get-togethers and special celebrations. It offers a refreshing alternative to more robust wines, making it a crowd-pleaser.
FAQ's
Pinot Noir
A : Pinot" French word for "pine", referencing the grape's tightly clustered, pinecone-shaped bunches. "Noir" French word for "black", indicating the color of this dark, thin-skinned grape variety.
A : Look for Pinot Noir from emerging regions like New Zealand or Oregon for high-quality, affordable options.
A : Yes, especially with the higher acidity in Pinot Noir from a cooler climate, it can be aged for many years. These highly sought-after and collectible wines develop complex flavors over time.
A : Cooler climate Pinot Noir tends to have higher acidity and red fruit flavors, while warmer climate Pinot Noir exhibits darker fruit flavors and a fuller body.
A : Yes, Pinot Noir alongside Chardonnay and Pinot Meunier are the three primary grape varieties used in Champagne.
Pinot Gris
A : Yes, Pinot Gris and Pinot Grigio are the same grape variety; the name differs based on the style and region. French Pinot Gris or Italian Pinot Grigio.
A : Pinot Grigio wines and grapes are typically white, although the color of their skin is grayish-blue.
A : Pinot Gris can range from dry to sweet, depending on the winemaking style and region.
A : Yes, Pinot Gris should be served chilled to enhance its crisp and refreshing flavors.
A : Pinot Gris is generally enjoyed young but can be aged for a few years, especially those from regions like Alsace.
A : While uncommon, Pinot Gris can occasionally be made into a rosé wine through extended skin contact during fermentation.
More Wine Pairings and Wine Articles
- Watermelon Salad with Feta Cheese and Olives
- Lemon Ricotta Pasta (Creamy, No-Cook Sauce)
- Baked Mediterranean Salmon Recipe
- Roasted Beet Hummus Recipe
Whether you're enjoying the summer sunshine or hosting a cozy dinner party, Pinot Noir and Pinot Gris are excellent choices to elevate your wine experience. Pinot Noir is perfect for vegetarians and pairs wonderfully with a wide array of foods, making everyone happy. It's an ideal summer wine but, for those with a preference for bolder wines, an acquired taste.
On the other hand, Pinot Gris, with its lively acidity, is the epitome of a lazy summer day at the pool. It serves as an excellent aperitif and pairs effortlessly with food, from salty snacks to fish, vegetables, salads, and fruity desserts. So, why not try a Pinot today and discover which one suits your palate best?
Cheers to discovering the wonders of wine!
Parfait for Pinot Noir, and Perfetto for Pinot Gris!
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