Pinot grigio / Pinot gris / Grauburgunder

Sweet grape

Pinot grigio, also known as Pinot gris or Grauburgunder, is a variety of white grape that produces golden yellow wines that are full of character and low in acidity. It is also used as a blending variety for Pinot noir red wines. A grey veil covers the dark skin of this grape. However, this is not an indication of rot, but rather where the variety gets its name: grigio, Italian for grey.

Where it grows:

• in Alsace; here it is pressed into fine wines

• in Germany’s Baden region, where it is known as Ruländer

• in Hungary under the name «Szürkebarát» or «Grey Monk»

• in Valais as «Malvoisie» on calcareous soil

What it tastes like:

• tangy-fruity with hints of almonds, honey and figs

What it goes with:

• delicate appetisers and light starters

• poultry and fish

• mild cheese