Pinot Gris

Pinot Gris is a white grape variety belonging to the Burgundian Pinot family, originating from Pinot Noir. Although its roots lie in Burgundy, it is most closely associated today with the Alsace region, where it produces some of the grape’s most distinctive and highly regarded expressions.

The grape is notable for its unusual appearance, with skins that range from pale pink to greyish-brown. Despite this, it is used to produce white wines. Pinot Gris typically yields rich, full-bodied wines with moderate acidity and a rounded texture. Its flavour profile often includes ripe orchard fruits such as pear and apple, alongside notes of stone fruit, spice, and sometimes a subtle smoky or honeyed character.

The richness of Pinot Gris is largely due to its ability to accumulate sugars during a long ripening period, which translates into higher alcohol levels and a fuller mouthfeel after fermentation. In Alsace, the grape can produce both dry and sweeter styles, including late-harvest wines with significant concentration. Its depth and texture make it a versatile food wine, well suited to dishes such as poultry, pork, creamy sauces, and lightly spiced cuisine.