Pinot Gris—meaning Grey Pinecone—is a white wine varietal thought to be a clone of Pinot Noir. Identified in the Burgundy Region as far back as the Middle Ages, Pinot Gris spread, arriving early in Switzerland and in Hungary and reaching Germany by the end of the 16th century.

Today it enjoys a wide popularity in most European countries, as well as in Australia, Canada, New Zealand, South Africa, and the United States where the grape is produced under a large variety of names.

Pinot Gris produces wines that have a delicately fragrant, mildly floral aroma, with tangy light flavors of apple, oak, and lemon-citrus. The wines can vary widely based on region, ripeness at harvest, and winemaker technique, but a good Pinot Gris will display crisp acidity, balanced with silky sweetness.

Popular Regions: France (Alsace), Austria, Germany, Hungary, Italy, Canada (Ontario), United States (Oregon)

Other Names: Auvernat Gris, Auxerrois Gris, Burot, Grauburgunder, Grauklevner, Pinot Beurot, Pino Grigio, Rulander, Malovisi, Szurkebarat, Tocai, Tokay d’Alsace

Foie gras, Poached fish, Smoked meat and fish, game, cheese