A pink-skinned mutation of Pinot Noir, made as crisp Pinot Grigio or richer Pinot Gris.
History
Pinot Gris is a mutation of Pinot Noir with greyish-pink skins. Alsace makes rich, aromatic Pinot Gris, while northern Italy made light, crisp Pinot Grigio famous. Germany calls it Grauburgunder.
Pinot Gris in Australia
Pinot Gris grew rapidly in Australia from the 2000s. Producers often use the name to signal style: Pinot Grigio for lighter, crisper wines, and Pinot Gris for richer, textural ones.
Mornington Peninsula, the Adelaide Hills, Tasmania and the King Valley are leading regions.
Tasting notes
Grigio styles are light and crisp with pear, green apple and citrus. Gris styles are richer and rounder with pear, nashi, honeysuckle, ginger and spice, and sometimes a slightly oily texture.