Pinot Grigio is one of the most popular white wines in the world and certainly the most popular wine in Italy. It is light, fresh, and refreshing, which is why many people choose to enjoy it both on a daily basis and during celebrations.

This wine pairs well with a variety of dishes—especially seafood, pasta, chicken dishes, and light salads. It’s also great as an aperitif with light snacks. That’s exactly why Pinot Grigio is a frequent choice for summer picnics and barbecue evenings.

Did you know that Pinot Grigio is also known by other names?

Pinot Grigio is known by several names around the world. It depends on which country you’re in. Pinot Grigio in Italy, Pinot Gris in France, Grauburgunder in Austria, and Grauer Burgunder in Germany.

Pinot Grigio translates to “gray Pinot,” and the name itself comes from the grape’s grayish-blue color.

Where is Pinot Grigio grown most?

The most famous Pinot Grigio regions are in Italy—Veneto, Friuli-Venezia Giulia, and Trentino-Alto Adige. In each region, the wine takes on a slightly different character—some are fruitier, others more mineral or floral.

Today, Pinot Grigio is also produced in the U.S., Australia, and New Zealand. Although wines from these countries differ from the classic Italian style, they retain the key characteristic—a light and refreshing taste.

Pinot Grigio grapes adapt very easily to the climate:

A Common Myth About Pinot Grigio Wines
Although Pinot Grigio is often considered a “safe choice,” in recent years there has been growing interest among sommeliers worldwide in small-batch, natural, and longer skin-contact Pinot Grigio styles.
Some of the most expensive and complex Pinot Grigio wines do not taste “simple” at all. They can develop notes of honey, nuts, smoke, and spices after several years of aging.

Our wine expert recommends trying:

Cesari Pinot Grigio delle Venezie DOC
Ca’Bolani Pinot Grigio DOC

Which one of these will be your favorite?