The Enthusiasts! NYC Wine Club: Pinot Grigio vs. Pinot Noir
Dear Readers! I know it has been a while, but the wine club is finally getting back together, and this month's topic is: a comparison of pinot noir and pinot grigio!
You may be thinking - the name of these two grapes are similar, are they related? Well, Pinot noir is a noble red grape and ancient variety whose origin, while somewhat unclear, can be traced to Burgundy, France. On the other hand, pinot grigio/gris is a white grape that emerged as a mutation of pinot noir. How these genetic mutations occur would take hours, days, weeks, years ... well a long time to research and explain (at least for our purposes). Yet, for our discussion it is beneficial to know that research suggests the mutation of two essential genes in a red grape parent (thousands of years ago) is responsible for the creation of the multiple white grape vines, including pinot grigio, in existence today. Pretty cool!
So what is the story on Pinot Noir?
Photo Source: www.kenbrownwines.com
Name Origin:
Pinot noir is a red (that looks almost black) wine grape whose name is derived from the French words for "pine" and "black."
Famous Regions:
Pinot noir grows best in Burgundy, Champagne, California, and Oregon.
Preferred Climate:
Pinot noir grows only in cool climates. Fog, cool ocean breezes and cool nights are beneficial for the cultivation of pinot noir grapes.
Flavor:
Grape flavors include; raspberries, red cherry, high-acidity. Winemaking flavors include; smoky and earthy.
Generally, pinot noir is one of five high-acid grapes. The other four include: riesling, chenin blanc, barbera and sangiovese. Acidity is a very important component of wine, especially when balanced with the fruit component. Overly acidic wine will likely taste tart or sour.
The most notable (and expensive) bottles of pinot noir are produced in Burgundy and Oregon. These wines can be somewhat pricey (say at least $30 for a quality bottle) because pinot noir is tempermental and difficult grape to grow. However, if you are looking for a cheap alternative that still maintains quality - you should check out New Zealand pinot noir. Now, you may find some negative press about New Zealand pinot noir. Back in 2011, the NYTimes
reviewed 20 bottles of New Zealand pinot noir. They spent most of the article hating on their 2008 and 2009 selections of New Zealand pinot noir, concluding they were "friendly ... wines you would serve at a neighborhood block party ... and boring." Firstly, I see nothing wrong with an affordable quality wine that is served at a neighborhood party. And secondly, as with most bargain wines, you will have to do some experimenting to find a good bottle for you and New Zealand pinot noir is definitely worth experimenting.
And Pinot Grigio?
Photo Source
beausbarrelroom.blogspot.com
Name Origin:
Pinot gris is a white grape variety whose name is derived from the French words for "pine" and "grey." Pinot grigio is a synonym used in Italy. Both names reference the color grey because of the grapes typical greyish-blue color.
Famous Regions:
Pinot gris grows best in Alsace.
Pinot grigio grows best in Italy, California, and Oregon.
Preferred Climate:
Cooler climate.
Flavor:
Pear, apple, lemon and mineral.
Pinot gris from Alsace is both rich, complex, and spicy.
Pinot grigio from Italy lacks this spicy complexity and commonly has less flavor.
Today, pinot grigio/gris is a widely cultivated and fast expanding mid-color grape. However, it's growth in popularity has yet to catch its growth in cultivation. Generally, it is beneficial to discuss pinot grigio and pinot gris separately, however, remember that these two wines are made from the
same grape.
It is the climate, soil, and winegrowing area (aka terroir!!) that makes these two wines so different. Let's discuss pinot gris first. Pinot gris of Alsace (and also Oregon) are crisp, fuller bodied and more aromatic. Pinot gris also offers complex flavors of tree fruits and even almonds.
Alternatively, pinot grigio is the most popular white wine produced in Italy. Pinot grigio has a nice, crisp, and dry white wine with a neutral flavor. Generally, the more expensive the pinot grigio, the more likely the wine will have fuller body and flavor. The best pinot grigios have crisp acidity, citrus flavor and a hint of minerality.
Thus concludes my introduction of pinot noir and pinot grigio - stand by for the results from the group!
Cheers!