Wine:What is Pinot Grigio and Suggested Food Pairings

First off, what is Pinot Grigio wine? It is one of the very popular white wines. Pinot Grigio is a white wine described as light, crisp, and dry. It is said to have a high level of acidity. According to Spruce Eats, Pinot Grigio is America’s second most popular wine.

I have come across another wine called Pinot Gris wine. I thought Pinot Gris and Pinot Grigio were probably the same, but they are not.  According to My Recipes, here is the difference

“Pinot Grigio, undoubtedly the most popular of the two, is lighter-bodied, crisp, clean, and vibrant with citrus flavors, according to Wine Spectator. Pinot gris, on the other hand, is sweet, and has spicy tropical fruit aromas. It generally has low acidity, higher alcohol levels, and a rich texture.”

I will have to try both of them to see which one I like the most.  I will have to plan a wine tasting:-)

The tasting notes of Pinot Grigio will vary based on where the grapes are grown. The typical flavors found in Pinot Grigio will be fruit flavors. You may find the flavors of lemon zest and lime, stone fruits such as pear, nectarine, peach, and lastly, green apple. The acidity in this wine is medium to high, and the wine is dry with a medium body. There are no tannis in Pinot Grigio. The alcohol content ranges from 12.5- 13.5%; this seems to be a high alcohol content compared to other white wines.

There are 3 types of Pinot Grigio. There is minerally and dry, fruity and dry, and fruity and sweet. You can find the minerally and dry in the cooler climates in Italy, Germany, Austria, and Canada. The fruity and dry come from North America, Australia, and New Zealand. The fruity and sweet variety can be found in the Alsace region of France and Germany. I think I may enjoy the fruity and sweet version. I plan to do a wine tasting of each.

According to Wine Folly, the estimated calorie count of Pinot Grigio in a 6 oz serving is 107-143 calories per glass.

Food Pairings. 

What foods go well with Pinot Grigio? According to Unraveling Wine, you can pair many foods with Pinot Grigio. Here are a few…

Seafood

Mild Cheeses such as goat cheese, mozzarella, mile cheddars, brie, gouda, 

gorgonzola, and fetta all pair well with Pinot Grigio.

Salads

Veggies

Rice 

Chicken and Turkey

Light Pasta Dishes

Foods to avoid when pairing with Pinot Grigio are strong and sharp cheeses and red meat.

I have already decided to do a wine and food pairing.  I will make a Chicken Lasagna and pair it with a Pinot Grigio.  I will post the experience.