In fact, it would be a lot easier to catalogue our experiences (and have some verbal ammo for the white wine haters) if only the names of at least three fairly prominent whites weren’t super similar. We’re talking Pinot Grigio, Pinot Gris, and Pinot Blanc.
Chances are, you’re more thoroughly acquainted with the first, though chances are, like most of us, you also know it in its more two-dimensional, citrusy-pop expression. Good for passing a summer day, but not nearly the end of the Grigio story. Pinot Gris is not as commonly known, likely due to slightly higher pricing (we’ll explain below), and Pinot Blanc is probably the least known of all. But there are actually some serious, as in genetic, bonds between all three grapes. And also some pretty interesting differences which, once understood, will make you wiser about all things wine. And a lot better at buying it, which is pretty much the goal, right?
On to the breakdown:
They're all related
They may pour out of the bottle differently, but Pinot Grigio, Pinot Gris, and Pinot Blanc are all from the same family. The “Pinot” family, no surprise, which puts them in close relation to Pinot Noir. Meaning you drink Pinot, you fancy.
They're all mutants
We have genetic mutation to thank for the variety within the animal and plant kingdoms, the terrifying marvels of the X-Men saga, and the abundance of delicious wine in the world. Pinots Blanc, Gris, and Grigio are all color mutations from Pinot Noir.
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