Pinot Grigio vs Pinot Noir

The history of Pinot is long and complicated, but one thing that never changes about it is the grapes themselves. These favorite wines have been famous for centuries- ever since they were first made in Italy back when people thought the wine was something worth drinking instead of being preserved like vinegar or honey mixture!

Nowadays, though, you can find these delicate gems all over vineyards worldwide because even if their reputation as difficult crops proved true, the desire to drink great wine remains strong among the people.

None of the grapes in wine are more iconic than Pinot Noir and its cousin – Pinot Grigio. For centuries, the two have been paired together to create an exquisite blend that can’t be found anywhere else on Earth!

The cousin of the much-loved Pinot Noir, Grigio, is not as celebrated but still deserves attention. Despite being a less glamorous grape variety than its famous counterpart, it has been used to produce exquisite wines that can stand alongside any other white wine on your list.

This article will explore the differences between Pinot Grigio vs Pinot Noir while also tasting samples of each, so you know which is right for your next dinner party or personal enjoyment.

What Is Pinot Grigio?

Pinot Grigio is a white wine made from the Pinot Gris grape. The name “pinot gris” means “grey pinot,” meaning this grape can range in color from a very pale pink to a greyish hue.

This grape is a mutation of the pinot noir grape, and it is believed to have originated in Burgundy, France. However, Pinot Gris grapes are now grown worldwide, including in Italy, Germany, Australia, and New Zealand.

The flavor of Pinot Grigio wines can vary depending on where they are made. Wines made from Pinot Gris grapes grown in cooler climates tend to be crisper and more refreshing, with delicate citrus and floral flavors.

Wines made from Pinot Gris grapes grown in warmer climates tend to be richer and more full-bodied, with tropical fruit flavors.

How Is Pinot Grigio Made?

Pinot Grigio wines are typically made using the free-run juice of the grapes, which means that the juice is extracted from the grapes without putting any pressure on them.

This results in a wine that is very light in color and low in tannins. Depending on the style of wine that the winemaker is trying to achieve, Pinot Grigio may be fermented in stainless steel tanks or barrels.

After fermentation, the wine may undergo a process called Sur lie aging, which means that it is left in contact with the yeast cells responsible for fermentation.

This can add extra creaminess and complexity to the wine. Pinot Grigio wines are typically bottled young and meant to be consumed within a few years of being made.

How to Serve Pinot Grigio

Pinot Grigio is best served chilled, between 45 and 50 degrees Fahrenheit. This wine can be enjoyed on its own or with food. Pinot Grigio pairs well with lighter fare such as salads, seafood, and poultry dishes.

If you are serving Pinot Grigio with food, it is best to avoid too heavy or spicy dishes, as these can overwhelm the delicate flavors of the wine.

History of Pinot Grigio

The Pinot Gris grape is believed to have originated in Burgundy, France. However, the first recorded mention of this grape was in 1224, when it was described as being “grey” in color.

It is thought that the Pinot Gris grape is a natural mutation of the Pinot Noir grape. Pinot Gris grapes were first planted in Italy in the 1930s, and the first Pinot Grigio wines were made in the 1950s.

Today, Pinot Grigio is one of the most popular white wines globally. It is produced in many different countries.

Some Good Quality Pinot Grigio Producers

– Cortefresca from the Trentino region in Italy

– Jermann from the Friuli region in Italy

– Hugel from the Alsace region in France

– Trimbach from the Alsace region in France

– Kim Crawford from the Marlborough region in New Zealand

Some Health Benefits of Pinot Grigio

– It can help with weight loss

– It is suitable for your heart

– It can help to prevent cancer

– It can help to improve brain function

Possible Side Effects of Pinot Grigio

– It can cause headaches

– It can make you feel dizzy

– It can give you a hangover

Steps to Buying a Pinot Grigio

– Research the wine before you buy it.

– Read the label to see where it was made and what year it was bottled.

– If you are buying Pinot Grigio from a store, ask the staff for recommendations.

– When you are ready to buy, look for a bottle that is within your budget.

– Once you have found a few options, choose the one you think tastes the best.

– When you get home, store the wine in a cool, dark place.

– Pinot Grigio is best enjoyed within a few years of being made.

Styles of Pinot Grigio

The following are the different styles of Pinot Grigio wine:

– Crisp and refreshing: These wines are made in cooler climates and tend to be lighter in body with delicate citrus and floral flavors.

– Rich and full-bodied: These wines are made in warmer climates and tend to be richer with tropical fruit flavors.

– Aromatic: These wines are typically made using the free-run juice of the grapes, which results in a very light in color and low in tannins.

– Sur lie aged: These wines are left in contact with the yeast cells responsible for fermentation, which can add extra creaminess and complexity to the wine.

– Sparkling: These wines are made using the traditional method of fermentation in the bottle, which results in a wine full of bubbles.

– Dessert: These wines are made using grapes that have been affected by noble rot, which gives them a sweet flavor.

What Is Pinot Noir?

Are you curious what’s the difference between Pinot Grigio and Pinot Noir? Do not be in a hurry, knowing the basic information about these wines will help you have a more accurate view. Pinot Noir is the perfect choice for anyone who wants to enjoy a glass of wine with their food or just enjoys drinking something delicious on its own. This versatile red has been made from grapes grown all over France, but it can now be found anywhere there’s good soil and sunshine–even if you live in New Zealand!

Pinot noir is the darkest of all wines. It has very dark-colored skin, which gives it its name “Black Pinot.” The juice inside this delicious beverage becomes colorless when exposed to sunlight, so people commonly enjoy drinking them indoors or out at night with little moonlight because they can’t see where you’re eating!

How Is Pinot Noir Made?

Pinot Noir wines are typically made using whole grapes, including skins and seeds. The grapes are fermented in barrels or tanks, and they may undergo a process called maceration, which means that they are left in contact with their skins for an extended period of time.

This allows the wine to take on more color and flavor from the grape skins. After fermentation, the wine is typically aged in barrels before being bottled.

The amount of time that a Pinot Noir spends aging can vary depending on the style of wine that the winemaker is trying to achieve.

How to Serve Pinot Noir

Pinot Noir is best enjoyed at 60 – 65 degrees Fahrenheit. It can be sipped alone or with food, and it goes great with red meats like beef fillets served over polenta (a type of Italian cornmeal) and poultry dishes such as hens cooked in wine sauce made from their feathers while they’re still alive—and pasta!

Pinot Noir is a great choice for entertaining, as it pairs well with many different dishes. Of course, it’s best to avoid heavy or spicy foods when serving this wine because of its delicate flavor profile – but don’t be afraid! There are so many other options available that will allow you to enjoy some fine dining while still keeping things interesting from time to, and if nothing else appeals? This delicious red wine goes wonderful alongside anything on your plate too!

History of Pinot Noir

The pinot noir grape is thought to have originated in Burgundy, France. The name “pinot” is derived from the French word for “pine”, and “noir” means “black”. This grape variety is believed to have been cultivated as early as the 1st century AD.

The pinot noir grape was brought to Burgundy by Roman soldiers who had tasted it while stationed in what is now Switzerland. As a result, Pinot noir quickly became the dominant grape varietal in Burgundy, and it has remained popular ever since.

Today, pinot noir grapes are grown worldwide, and people from all walks of life enjoy the wine made from them. So whether you’re a casual drinker or a wine connoisseur, pinot noir is sure to please.

Some Good Quality Pinot Noir Producers

– Domaine Serene (Willamette Valley, Oregon)

– Rochioli Vineyards (Russian River Valley, California)

– Drouhin Laroze (Bourgogne, France)

– Bouchard Aine & Fils (Bourgogne, France)

– Louis Jadot (Bourgogne, France)

– Maison Joseph Drouhin (Bourgogne, France)

– Elk Cove Vineyards (Willamette Valley, Oregon)

Some Health Benefits of Pinot Noir

– May help prevent cancer

– May improve heart health

– May help reduce the risk of stroke

– Contains antioxidants

– May help slow the aging process

Possible Side Effects of Pinot Noir

– May cause headaches

– May cause an upset stomach

– May cause diarrhea

– May interact with certain medications

Steps to Buying a Pinot Noir

– Research what region you would like it from

– Find a good quality producer from that region

– Determine what style of pinot noir you prefer

– Choose a bottle and enjoy!

When choosing a Pinot Noir, it is essential to keep in mind the following:

– The region it is from

– The producer

– The style of pinot noir

– Your personal preferences.

When it comes to choosing a Pinot Noir, many factors to consider. The most important thing is to find a style of wine that you enjoy. Once you’ve done that, the rest is easy!

Styles of Pinot Noir

There are many different styles of Pinot Noir, and the wine can range in color from pale ruby to deep purple. The flavor profile of Pinot Noir also varies depending on the style of wine.

Some Pinot Noir wines are light-bodied and fruity, while others are full-bodied and have earthy or spicy flavors. The tannin levels in Pinot Noir can also vary, which contributes to the wine’s astringency.

Typically, pinot noir wines from warmer climates will be higher in alcohol and have more ripe fruit flavors. In comparison, pinot noir wines from cooler temperatures will be lighter in body and have brighter acidity.

The style of pinot noir that you choose should be based on your personal preferences. If you enjoy lighter-bodied wines, then a pinot noir from a cooler climate would be good. If you prefer full-bodied wines, then a pinot noir from warmer weather would be better.

Pinot Grigio vs Pinot Noir: What Are The Differences?

Taste

When it comes to the difference between Pinot Grigio and Pinot Noir, the first thing we want to mention is their taste. With its light and playful red berry notes, Pinot Noir is perfect for anyone who wants to drink something with sophistication. The wine has hints of cherries that develop into darker, more flavorful fruits such as raspberries or cranberry sauce which give the mouth plenty of flavor without being too heavy on your tongue!

With time in the bottle, 4-5 years will bring out vanilla flavors alongside caramel accents making this an excellent long-term investment even if you don’t sip every day because, after 20+years, most people prefer these old wines over new ones.

However, if you want to enjoy their wine now and not wait for it to age, Pinot Grigio is your go-to! This white grape varietal is known for its crisp acidity and refreshing citrus flavors. It’s the perfect summertime drink that can be enjoyed on its own or with food.

Pinot grigio is a light-bodied white wine with the flavor notes of nectarine and lemon. It has less acidity than most other varieties, which means it’s easier on your mouth when drinking them as an everyday beverage or if you want something refreshing after dinner in hot weather!

French Gray Codec can be enjoyed at any time because its sweeter honey accents will make this drink appeal even to those who prefer their alcohol stronger than not so much about hints but recognizable profiles – think: almond cookie dough coupled perfectly against tart ripe pear flavors.

ABV

The alcohol by volume (ABV) content in wine varies depending on the style of wine. For example, pinot noir from a warmer climate will typically have a higher ABV than pinot noir from a cooler climate. The same is true for pinot grigio.

The average ABV for pinot noir is around 13.5%, while the average ABV for pinot grigio is 12%.

Body

The body of a wine is determined by the amount of alcohol and glycerin it contains. The higher the alcohol content, the fuller-bodied the wine will be.

Pinot noir wines typically have an alcohol content of 12-14%. This makes them lighter-bodied than most red wines, but they can still be fairly full-bodied. So you could serve it with something as light as salmon or tuna to heartier dishes like lamb or beef. The wine’s delicate tannins won’t overpower your meal but will provide just enough structure to stand up to most proteins.

Pinot Grigio wines typically have an alcohol content of 11-13%. This makes them lighter-bodied than most white wines. This means it will pair well with lighter fare such as salads or fish. However, if you’re looking for a white wine to drink with chicken or pork, you may want to consider a wine with more body, such as chardonnay.

Tannins

Tannins are what give the wine its astringent quality. They come from the skin, seeds, and stems of grapes, and they can also come from the oak barrels that wines are aged in. Tannins contribute to the structure of a wine, and they can make a wine taste more full-bodied.

Pinot noir typically has low to moderate tannin levels, which makes it a good choice for people who are sensitive to tannins. On the other hand, Pinot Grigio is a white wine and does not contain any tannins.

Acidity

Acidity is what gives the wine its crisp, refreshing quality. It is also what makes wine taste tart. The higher the acidity, the more tart the wine will taste.

Pinot noir from a warmer climate will typically have lower acidity than pinot noir from a cooler climate. However, Pinot Grigio, like most white wines, has high acidity.

Price

The price of pinot noir and pinot grigio can vary depending on the region where they are produced and the quality of the grapes. In general, pinot noir is more expensive than pinot grigio.

For example, Pinot noir from Burgundy, France, can cost anywhere from $30 to $100 per bottle. On the other hand, Pinot Grigio from Italy or California typically costs between $10 and $20 per bottle.

Sweetness

The sweetness of a wine is determined by the amount of sugar left in the wine after fermentation. Most wines are not very sweet, but there are some exceptions.

Pinot noir is a dry wine containing very little sugar. Pinot grigio is also a dry wine, but it can sometimes have a slight sweetness. This is because pinot grigio grapes are typically harvested later than other white grapes, which gives them more time to ripen and develop sugar.

Pairing Food

Pinot Grigio is the perfect aperitif or party wine. It is light and refreshing, making it ideal for sipping on its own. It also pairs well with lighter fare such as salads or fish. If you’re looking for a white wine to drink with chicken or pork, you may want to consider a wine with more body, such as chardonnay.

On the other hand, the versatile Pinot Noir is a great choice to enjoy with food. Aged versions are more layered and complex, while bolder ones can handle stronger meats such as duck or even some pork (though not too much). It’s also worth trying out aged goats’ cheese trays- at their lightest & crispiest!

Some recipes with Pinot Grigio:

– Spaghetti with pinot grigio, lemon, and shrimp

– Roasted chicken with pinot grigio and herbs

– Salmon with pinot grigio and dill

Some recipes with Pinot Noir:

– Braised beef short ribs with pinot noir

– Duck breasts with pinot noir and cherries

– Pork tenderloin with pinot noir and cranberries

Aging Potential

Pinot noir wines are typically meant to be consumed young, within 2-5 years of vintage. However, pinot noirs from high-quality producers can age much longer, up to 20 years or more. On the other hand, Pinot Grigio is not typically made to age and is meant to be consumed within a year or two of the vintage date.

Aroma and Flavor

Pinot noir wines can have aromas and flavors of cherries, strawberries, raspberries, and other red fruits. They can also have earthy aromas and flavors of mushrooms, damp forest floors, and truffles. Pinot Grigio wines typically have citrusy aromas and lemon, lime, and grapefruit flavors. They can also have floral aromas and flavors of honeysuckle and jasmine.

Soil

The soil in which the grapevines are grown can also contribute to the flavor of the wine. For example, Pinot noir grapes are typically grown in clay or limestone soils, giving the wine a mineral flavor. 

Pinot Grigio grapes are typically grown in sandy or gravel soils, giving the wine a more fruity flavor. 

Climate

The climate in which the grapevines are grown can also affect the flavor of the wine. For example, Pinot noir grapes are typically grown in cooler climates, such as Burgundy, France, or Oregon, United States. The cooler climate produces pinot noirs that are lighter in the body and have higher acidity.

Pinot Grigio grapes are typically grown in warmer climates, such as Tuscany, Italy, or California, United States. The warmer climate produces pinot grigios that are fuller in the body and have lower acidity.

Pinot Grigio vs Pinot Noir: Which One Should You Choose?

The answer to this question depends on your personal preference. For example, if you prefer a sweeter wine, then pinot grigio may be the better choice. On the other hand, if you prefer a dryer wine, then pinot noir may be the better choice.

If you are looking for a wine to pair with food, pinot noir may be better. If you are looking for a wine to drink on its own, then pinot grigio may be the better choice. Ultimately, it is up to you to decide which one you prefer Pinot Grigio vs Noir.

FAQs

Is Pinot Grigio a Good Party Wine? 

Yes, pinot grigio is a good party wine. It is light and refreshing, making it ideal for sipping on its own. It also pairs well with lighter fare such as salads or fish.

Is Pinot Noir an Excellent Choice to Drink With Food? 

Yes, pinot noir is a great choice to enjoy with food. Aged versions are more layered and complex, while bolder ones can handle stronger meats such as duck or even some pork (though not too much).

How Should I Store Pinot Noir? 

Pinot noir should be stored in a cool, dark place. It can be stored in a wine fridge or cellar. If you do not have a wine fridge or cellar, you can store it in the refrigerator for short-term storage.

Can Pinot Noir Be Frozen? 

Yes, you can freeze Pinot Noir. However, it is not recommended as it can affect the taste of the wine, freezing the wine may cause it to become slightly sweeter. If you do freeze pinot noir, thaw it slowly in the refrigerator. Do not thaw it at room temperature. If you are planning on drinking the wine after it has been frozen, you may want to add a little bit of sugar to offset the sweetness. 

Is Pinot Noir a Red Wine? 

Yes, pinot noir is red wine. It gets its color from the skins of the grapes, which are left in contact with the juice during fermentation.

What Glass to Use for Pinot Grigio vs Pinot Noir? 

For pinot noir, it is recommended to use a glass with a wide bowl. This allows the wine to breathe and opens up the aromas. For pinot grigio, it is recommended to use a glass with a narrower bowl. This helps to preserve the wine’s crisp acidity.

How Long Does Pinot Noir Last? 

Pinot Noir can last for up to 10 years if it is stored properly. However, most people drink Pinot Noir within 2-3 years after it is bottled. If you are planning on drinking the wine sooner, it is best to check with the winery or retailer for their recommended storage time.

See More: pinot noir vs cabernet sauvignon

Conclusion

So, what’s the difference between Pinot Grigio vs Pinot Noir? It can be summed up in a few key points. Pinot Grigio is lighter-bodied with citrus flavors, while Pinot Noir is richer and more complex, with earthier flavors.

If you’re looking for a wine that will pair well with food, go for Pinot Noir; if you’re after a drink to enjoy on its own, choose a chilled glass of Pinot Grigio.

Of course, there are always exceptions to the rule, so don’t be afraid to experiment! With these two wines being such popular choices worldwide, you’re sure to find one (or both) that suits your taste perfectly. 

With this guide, you should feel confident in your ability to choose the right wine for any occasion. Whether you’re looking for a crisp and refreshing Pinot Grigio or a rich and complex Pinot Noir, we hope our recommendations have helped steer you in the right direction. Remember, it’s always important to drink what you enjoy with friends.

We collect all relevant questions and find ways to answer them, helping us expand our knowledge and have a lot of experience to share with others. So if you have any questions, do not forget to ask us – we would love to hear from you!

You can also find much other helpful information on our website to help enhance your understanding of Pinot Noir vs Grigio and other wines in the world.