Pinot Gris vs. Pinot Grigio: Decoding the Differences

In pursuit of wine knowledge, and on a journey of exploration and discovery, you might occasionally come across moments that need some clarification. Among these, “Is Pinot Gris the same as Pinot Grigio?” comes up a lot for us at Bonterra. We love decoding and breaking down differences like these. While these wine names may grace different bottles, they share a fascinating origin story—with important distinctions worthy of exploration. Here’s the scoop on what sets Pinot Gris and Pinot Grigio apart, plus a handy guide for when to reach for each one.

Introduction to Pinot Gris and Pinot Grigio

At their essence, Pinot Gris and Pinot Grigio represent the same grape variety, one with a storied past and remarkable adaptability. This gray-blue grape (hence the name “gris” or “grigio,” both meaning “gray”) descends from Pinot Noir through a natural genetic mutation that occurred centuries ago. Like many great stories along the wine route, this one begins in France, specifically in Burgundy, before spreading across Europe and eventually throughout the world’s wine-growing regions.

The existence of two names for this versatile grape stems from its journey across regional boundaries. When the grape crossed from France into Italy, it brought its character but was gifted a new name—Pinot Grigio in Italian—while retaining Pinot Gris in France.

This dual identity reflects not just a linguistic shift but meaningful differences in winemaking styles that have evolved over generations. In France, Pinot Gris took root in Alsace, known for its fuller, spicier style. Meanwhile, in Italy’s Veneto and Friuli regions, it reached its apex as the bright, refreshing Pinot Grigio, whose style is now well-known worldwide.

Key Differences Between Pinot Gris and Pinot Grigio

Understanding the distinction between these expressions requires attention to nuances that develop from vineyard to organic winery to glass. While sharing genetic heritage, these wines diverge in expression based on climate, soil, winemaking decisions, winemaker philosophies, and cultural traditions.

Flavor Profile & Tasting Notes

The first sip reveals the most apparent differences between Pinot Gris and Pinot Grigio. Italian Pinot Grigio typically presents a lighter, crisper personality with pronounced acidity. These wines are known for bright notes of lemon, green apple, and subtle minerality—creating a refreshing, straightforward drinking experience that emphasizes vibrancy over complexity.

Pinot Gris, particularly from France’s Alsace or regions like Oregon State that follow the Alsatian style, offers a more textured experience. Our Bonterra Pinot Gris exemplifies this approach, delivering a rich mouthfeel complemented by notes of ripe pear, cantaloupe, and delicate white flowers. This fuller expression benefits from organic farming practices that allow for rich flavor development while maintaining the grape’s natural acidity and finesse. The Pinot Gris characteristics shine through, with a balance of freshness and richness.

Between these two classic interpretations exists a spectrum of styles reflecting each winemaker’s vision and each vineyard’s unique voice—many of which are explored in our guide to different types of wine. Cooler climates generally bring out the crisp, lively character of Pinot Grigio, while warmer regions tend to produce the richer, more complex traits of Pinot Gris.

Winemaking Techniques & Regional Influence

The divergent personalities of Pinot Gris and Pinot Grigio owe much to distinct approaches in the cellar. Italian Pinot Grigio typically undergoes earlier harvesting to preserve acidity and fresh fruit character, while fermentation and aging often occur in stainless steel tanks at cool temperatures, protecting delicate aromas and maintaining signature crispness.

Winemakers often let Pinot Gris hang out on the vine a little longer to encourage richer flavors and overall ripeness. At Bonterra, our farming practices allow for optimal ripening while maintaining balance, creating wines of both intensity and restraint. We may employ techniques like partial barrel fermentation or aging on lees to enhance the wine’s textural qualities—contributing to that characteristic silky mouthfeel that distinguishes our Pinot Gris.

Regional influence extends beyond winemaking choices to encompass broader cultural approaches to wine. In Italy, Pinot Grigio often reflects the Italian preference for wines that complement food without overwhelming it. In contrast, the Alsatian tradition celebrates Pinot Gris as a wine of substance and complexity—one worthy of standing on its own.

Food Pairings for Each Style

The distinctive personalities of these wines create different opportunities at the table. Crisp Pinot Grigio excels alongside lighter fare—many of which are covered in our wine and food pairings guide:

Fresh seafood dishes, particularly those featuring lemon and herbs
Summer salads with citrus vinaigrettes
Light pasta dishes with olive oil and fresh vegetables
Soft, young cheeses like fresh mozzarella

More substantial Pinot Gris expressions invite pairings with greater depth:

Roasted poultry with herbs and root vegetables
Richer seafood preparations like grilled salmon or scallops
Asian cuisine with aromatic spices and subtle sweetness
Alpine-style cheeses and charcuterie

Our Bonterra Pinot Gris finds its perfect match in dishes that balance richness with brightness—try it with herb-roasted chicken with preserved lemon, or a summer vegetable risotto finished with a touch of mascarpone. The wine’s natural acidity cuts through richness while its textural qualities complement the dish’s complexity.

Pinot Gris vs. Pinot Grigio: Which One Should You Choose?

The beauty of this dual-natured grape lies in its versatility—it offers different expressions for different moments. Your selection might depend on the occasion, the season, or simply your mood.

Reach for Pinot Grigio when:

The afternoon calls for something bright and refreshing
You’re serving light appetizers or seafood
Warmer temperatures demand a crisp, cooling wine
You prefer wines with pronounced acidity and mineral notes

Choose Pinot Gris when:

The occasion invites a wine with more contemplative qualities
Your menu features dishes with some richness or aromatic elements
You’re looking for a versatile wine that can carry through multiple courses
You appreciate wines with textural interest and complex fruit character

Wine preferences remain deeply personal—you may gravitate toward the pure, uncomplicated refreshment of a classic Pinot Grigio, while others seek the layered complexity of a well-crafted Pinot Gris. The wonderful truth is that no choice is incorrect; each style offers its own authentic expression of this remarkable grape.

For a great selection of Pinot Gris and other wine varietals, explore our wine samplers featuring organically farmed wine bundles perfect for any occasion.

The Best Way to Experience Pinot Gris and Pinot Grigio

Understanding the differences between these expressions invites a deeper appreciation of how terroir, tradition, and technique shape wine’s character. To truly grasp these nuances, consider exploring both styles side by side—an educational tasting that reveals how the same grape can speak in different voices. When you’re ready, find wine online to create your at-home tasting.

For optimal enjoyment, serve Pinot Grigio slightly cooler (around 45-48°F) to highlight its refreshing character, while Pinot Gris shows best at a slightly warmer temperature (48-52°F) that allows its textural qualities and aromatic complexity to fully emerge. The right temperature can transform your experience, revealing layers that might otherwise remain hidden.

At Bonterra, our approach to Pinot Gris[6] honors both the grape’s inherent character and our commitment to organic, regenerative practices. The result is a wine that carries the signature of our organic farms —where sustainable practices create wines of both vitality and depth. Each glass tells the story not just of a grape variety but of a philosophy that respects the connection between earth and wine.

Whether you choose the crisp elegance of Pinot Grigio or the textured complexity of Pinot Gris, you’re experiencing different facets of a remarkably versatile grape—one that continues to captivate wine lovers through its chameleonic approach to place and tradition in the glass.

REFERENCES

Decanter. (2021, March 14). Pinot Grigio vs Pinot Gris: Is there a difference? Decanter. https://www.decanter.com/learn/pinot-grigio-vs-pinot-gris-is-there-a-difference-454763/

Wine Folly. (n.d.). What’s the difference between Pinot Gris and Pinot Grigio? Wine Folly. https://winefolly.com/deep-dive/whats-the-difference-between-pinot-gris-and-pinot-grigio/