The Difference Between Pinot Grigio and Pinot Gris Actually Pinot Gris and Pinot Grigio are the same wine with two different names! In Italy and California, you will probably see the wine labeled as Pinot Grigio, while in Oregon and France look for it to be known as Pinot Gris. Thought to be a mutation of the Pinot Noir grape, Pinot Grigio normally has a grayish-blue fruit, accounting for its name (Gris meaning "grey" in French) but, the grape clusters can range from bluish grey to light pinkish brown. The wines produced from this grape also vary in color from a deep golden yellow to copper and even a light shade of pink. Many of you might have tried Santa Margherita Pinot Grigio, which was the first winery to make its mark as an import to the United States. Pronunciation: Pee-noh Gree-Jhee-oh or Pee-noh Gree Type of wine: Light, very crisp and clean, dry white Flavor Profile: Lively, fruit-forward character with aromas of pear, lemon apple and/or melon In Oregon, the wines are medium bodied with a yellow to pink color and aromas of pear, apple, and melon. In California, the Pinot Grigio is lighter bodied with a crisp, refreshing taste with some pepper notes. The Pinot Grigio style of Italy is a light bodied as well, light in color with sometimes spritzy flavors that can be crisp and acidic. There is one exception. The varietal Pinot-Gris d'Alsace (France) is markedly different from Pinot Gris found elsewhere. These wines are extremely rich, including flavors or peach, apricots, tropical fruits. They are medium to full bodied. While most Pinot Gris are meant to be consumed young, Alsatian Pinot Gris can age well. Food Pairing A perfect aperitif wine, Pinot Grigio's crispness primes the palate for food. It pairs well with all seafood, fish with a light cream or light oil based sauce. The wine will also go well with salads with a light dressing, Risotto, Pasta primavera, and shrimp salad. Ones to Try To experience a vibrant version of Pinot Grigio, look for one from the Alto Adige region of Italy. Oregon producers try are Carabella, Adelsheim or Ponzi. Until next time, cheer!