Differences Between Pinot Noir and Pinot Grigio

Wine lovers rejoice! If you’ve been wanting to expand your horizons and learn something new, then this article is for you. We’re going to be discussing the differences between two popular types of wine: red wine pinot noir and white wine pinot grigio.

When you visit an online wine store, you will notice that there are many different types of wines available. However, two of the most popular types of wines are pinot noir and pinot grigio. While both these two wines are delicious and have their unique flavor profiles, they also have some key differences.

Perhaps you've noticed that the wine grapes' names both contain the word pinot. Pinot, like so much wine, is a French word. Originally, the term was ascribed to wine because certain grape clusters on the vine resembled pinecones.

What you may not know is that Pinot Grigio and Pinot Noir are both color variations of the same grape. All Pinots, according to studies, are merely color mutations of Pinot Noir, which includes Pinot Grigio, Pinot Gris, Pinot Blanc, and Pink Flour. When there is no or little cyanin present in sections or entire vines - a pigment akin to melanin found in humans - red-skinned pinots with lighter flesh are produced. As a result, Pinot Noir has black skin, whereas Pinot Gris has a mix of golden and pink grapes within the same bunch.

Pinot Noir and Pinot Grigio offer striking differences when it comes to flavor. First of all, we need to remember that each grape variety is grown in different locations and climates. These factors can greatly affect the overall taste. For example, if Pinot Grigio comes from warmer climates, it tends to have a more robust fruity flavor, whereas pinot noir tends to be sweeter. however, there are still some common descriptors for each grape.

Pinot Grigio, one of the most popular white wine grapes for sure, displays subtle fresh fruit flavors such as apple, lime, and pear. Because it is made of ripened grapes, this style of wine can taste richer than other white varieties. Pinot Grigio has lower acidity levels than its red counterparts which makes for an easy drinker when paired with food or enjoyed alone.

On the other hand, Pinot Noir typically has medium acidity, but it doesn't usually have much of a distinguishing scent. The main flavors associated with this type of wine come from raspberries, cherries, strawberries, and various types of vegetables with age - but what sets it apart from its fruit-scented relatives are its earthy notes.

Differences in the winemaking process also impact the flavor of pinot noir and pinot grigio. For example, it is easier to notice a difference between these two types of wines when they are aged in an oak barrel. Pinot noir produces forest floor flavors. On the other hand, when pinot grigio stays in the oaks for too long, biscuit notes develop along with hazelnuts or even smoky aromas.

It is not always easy to know what type of wine goes well with what type of meat or dish. In general, Pinot Noir does well when paired with meats such as lamb chops and pork ribs but does not do so well when paired with seafood. As an alternative to the meats mentioned above, poultry such as chicken and turkey would also work well; Conversely, seafood goes great with white wines such as Pinot Grigio. When drinking Pinot Grigio wine, one should focus on light dishes or those with minimal sauces and seasoning - this would include vegetables, chicken, and turkey. On the other hand, if you will prefer salmon, especially a fatty variety like Atlantic Salmon you will be surprised how Pinot Noir will be paired well.

If you're seeking for a red wine with a red fruit flavor, go for pinot noir. A pinot grigio is a good choice if you want a white wine with a citrus taste. If you enjoy one, be sure to try the others in the wine family!

If you like comparing wines likes us, our new blog about Port vs Sherry is for you, don’t miss it!