Pinot Grigio, a lively and crisp white wine, is celebrated each year on May 17 for its refreshing qualities, reminiscent of a coastal breeze on a sunny day. This event, known as National Pinot Grigio Day, was initiated by Cavit, a Trentino-based winery that produces the best-selling Italian wine brand in America, in 2017. The timing of the celebration coincides with Memorial Day, heralding the unofficial start of summer, and has since gained popularity worldwide.
As a light-bodied, vibrant wine, Pinot Grigio is commonly enjoyed as an aperitif during garden parties and pairs excellently with lighter fare, making it a favorite during warm months. On this day, enthusiasts around the globe toast to the deliciousness of Pinot Grigio.
Interestingly, Pinot Grigio and Pinot Gris are actually the same grape variety. The terms refer to different styles: Pinot Grigio typically refers to the Italian expression, which is known for its crisp and refreshing nature, while Pinot Gris denotes a more aromatic and fuller-bodied style often associated with the French varieties. This grape, which is a natural mutation of Pinot Noir, thrives in various regions across the globe, including Italy, France, Germany, and the United States.
Originally from Burgundy, France, where it was known as Fromenteau, the grape made its way to Switzerland in the 14th century, eventually reaching Alsace and Northern Italy. It gained significant traction in popularity during the late 20th century as Italian winemakers produced light, easy-drinking whites that appealed to wine lovers everywhere. Today, Pinot Grigio is the second most popular white wine in the U.S. and has a strong following in the U.K., Canada, Australia, and other countries.
The grape flourishes in cool climates and is grown in diverse regions outside of Italy and France, including Germany (where it is called Ruländer), Switzerland, and New Zealand, among others.
On May 17, whether you prefer the refreshing nature of Pinot Grigio or the richer complexities of Pinot Gris, it’s a great day to raise a glass and celebrate the versatility of this beloved grape.
Tasting Notes
- Body: Usually light-bodied; Pinot Gris may be medium-bodied
- Typical Flavors: Lemon, green apple, pear, white peach, almond with floral notes; richer styles may have a hint of spice
- Top Regions: Trentino, Veneto, Friuli (Italy), Alsace (France), Oregon (USA), Marlborough (New Zealand), Mosel and Baden (Germany)
- Food Pairings: Pairs well with light pasta, seafood, risotto, salads, soft cheeses, antipasti, and grilled chicken
- When to Drink: Best enjoyed young and fresh, ideally within a year or two of the vintage, though richer Alsace Pinot Gris can age elegantly for five years or more.
Award-Winning Pinot Grigio to Try
- Unsworth Vineyards, Unsworth Vineyard Pinot Gris – British Columbia, 2023 – Silver, 91 points
- Cave De Ribeauvillé, Vieilles Vignes Pinot Gris – Alsace, 2023 – Silver, 91 points
- St. Michael-Eppan, Sanct Valentin Pinot Grigio – Alto Adige, 2022 – Silver, 94 points
- McArthur Ridge, Falls Dam Pinot Gris – Central Otago, 2024 – Gold, 95 points
- Alexana, Hillsides Pinot Gris – Willamette Valley, Oregon, 2024 – Silver, 90 points
This celebration is an opportunity for wine lovers everywhere to discover and enjoy both the classic Italian style and its more complex counterparts from across the globe.