Pinot Gris

Pinot Grigio, Grauburgunder, or as you most likely know it, Pinot Gris grapes are one of the most popular grape varieties you can find!

But how much do you know about these little berries?

They are thought to have descended from Pinot Noir grapes, mutating into a separate species in their home place of Burgundy, France. A perceptive wine fan might notice that both of these strains share the same pine-cone shaped clusters, a sign of their shared ancestry. While France was it’s birthplace though, this grape has since found a home in wine regions across the globe, each contributing to its unique expression.

One of the many ways Pinot Gris changes based on its surrounding is through it’s color spectrum. Unlike its cousin Pinot Noir, which turns dark blue upon ripening, Pinot Gris grapes can take on a myriad of hues.

From pale yellow to rosy pink, gray, and even coppery orange, these grapes are as much a visual delight as they are a treat for the palate!

The versatility of the Pinot Gris grape extends beyond its color though. It is known for its ability to produce a wide range of wines, from white to pink, and even red wines. This adaptability makes it an exciting choice for wine producers and wine lovers alike. The flavors and aromas in the resulting wine can vary widely, from zesty and light-bodied to fuller bodied white wines depending on the region and winemaking techniques.

You could even say that Pinot Gris grapes are like the chameleon of the wine world - it can produce white, pink, and even red wines. Talk about versatility!

Pinot Gris grapes flourish in cooler climates, our vineyards here at Balletto tend to be well-suited for this due to our proximity to the Pacific Ocean, which helps maintain a cool ocean breeze for the vines.

Planting in hillside regions allows the Pinot Gris grapes to be protected from the harsher winds that would otherwise harm their growth, think areas such as Sebastopol Hill for example.

Spots like these are ideal for Pinot Gris growth!

The Pinot Gris grape is a testament to the beauty of nature's diversity and the artistry of winemaking. Whether you're a seasoned wine connoisseur or a curious beginner, there's always something new to discover with this versatile grape variety.