Pinot Grigio: A Rising Star in Australia
Pinot Grigio is one of the world’s most popular white wines, and it has held its place as the third most sought-after white wine in Australia since 2018. Known for its easy-drinking nature and vibrant freshness, it appeals to a wide range of wine lovers. But did you know that there are two distinct styles of this grape, based on its European origins? One is rooted in Italy, and the other in France. Understanding this distinction is key to fully appreciating Pinot Grigio (and its French sibling, Pinot Gris).
Pinot Grigio combines elegance, approachability, and food-friendliness. It’s a wine that caters to both casual sippers and serious drinkers. And when you choose organic Pinot Grigio from FAB, you’re also supporting sustainable producers who put care into every bottle.
In this guide, we’ll explore Pinot Grigio’s flavour profile, its stylistic expressions, origins, and food pairings. Plus, we’ll spotlight some of the finest organic Pinot Grigios and Gris available now at FAB.
What Is Pinot Grigio? Origins and Style
Pinot Grigio (or Pinot Gris in French-speaking regions) is a white grape variety with greyish-pink skin – "grigio" means "grey" in Italian. It is a mutation of Pinot Noir and traces its origins to Burgundy, France. Over time, the grape found homes in northern Italy and Alsace, France, where it developed into two very different wine styles.
Pinot Grigio (Italian Style)
In Italy, Pinot Grigio is light, crisp, and dry – showcasing green apple, pear, citrus zest, and subtle floral or almond notes. These wines are typically unoaked, clean, and refreshing. Wines labelled "Grigio" are almost always in this style.
At FAB, we proudly showcase a crisp, dry Italian-style Pinot Grigio that has captured the hearts (and palates) of our customers: the Gorgo Pinot Grigio from Veneto, Italy. Imported exclusively by FAB, this wine is made by Roberta Bricolo, an iconic woman winemaker and advocate for sustainable viticulture.
At the Good Food & Wine Show past weekend, Gorgo Pinot Grigio was our top-selling wine, outselling even more affordable options – a clear sign that Aussie drinkers are loving this style.
Other examples of Italian-style Pinot Grigio in our portfolio include Pig in the House Pinot Grigio (Australia). Very pale to straw in colour, with vibrant varietal expression of spiced nashi pear from cool-climate vineyards. A true Italian-style wine made in Australia, offering crispness and purity without overt richness.
Pinot Gris (French Style)
The French style of Pinot Gris, particularly from Alsace, is deeper in colour, fuller in body, and may include residual sugar. These wines are richer, more textured, and aromatic – ideal for drinkers who enjoy complexity and a bit more body.
Wines labelled "Gris" reflect this French inspiration. Some of the best examples include:
- Domaine Thomas Pinot Gris (Alsace, France): Dry to off dry, showcasing layers of stone fruit, spice, and floral aromatics.
- Loverblock Pinot Gris (New Zealand): Created by Erica Crawford, this wine is textured yet fresh — perfect for Sauvignon Blanc fans seeking something rounder.
- Pink Sheep Pinot Gris (New Zealand): Bursting with stone fruits, floral notes, honeysuckle and a silky texture. 50 cents per bottle supports a rotating list of charities.
Pinot Grigio vs. Sauvignon Blanc, Chardonnay & Chenin Blanc
Pinot Grigio is often compared to Sauvignon Blanc, Chardonnay and Chenin Blanc – but it really sits in its own stylistic lane.
Pinot Grigio is great for those who find Sauvignon Blanc too grassy, Chardonnay too oaky, and Chenin Blanc too sharp. It's the middle ground of white wines.
Here’s a comparison of Pinot Grigio/Gris with other popular white wines:
Body
Pinot Grigio/Gris: Light (Grigio) to Medium (Gris)
Sauvignon Blanc: Light to Medium
Chardonnay: Medium to Full
Chenin Blanc: Light to Medium
Acidity
Pinot Grigio/Gris: Medium to High
Sauvignon Blanc: High
Chardonnay: Medium
Chenin Blanc: High
Aromatics - Pinot Grigio/Gris: Subtle (Grigio), more floral (Gris)
Sauvignon Blanc: Strong and punchy
Chardonnay: Neutral to buttery
Chenin Blanc: Citrus, floral, honeyed
Texture
Pinot Grigio/Gris: Crisp (Grigio), creamy (Gris)
Sauvignon Blanc: Lean, zippy
Chardonnay: Round, sometimes oaky
Chenin Blanc: Textured, waxy
Flavour Profile
Pinot Grigio/Gris: Apple, pear, almond, citrus zest
Sauvignon Blanc: Passionfruit, lime, grassy
Chardonnay: Apple, melon, sometimes oak
Chenin Blanc: Pear, quince, chamomile
What Does Pinot Grigio or Pinot Gris Taste Like?
Pinot Grigio and Pinot Gris vary depending on style:
- Italian Grigio Style:
- Crisp and light
- Green apple, citrus zest, fresh pear
- Clean, dry finish
- French Gris Style:
- Fuller body, more texture
- Stone fruit, spice, florals, sometimes a touch of sweetness
- Creamy or oily mouthfeel
Both can show delicate minerality, especially from cool-climate regions.
Fun fact: Pinot Grigio has pinkish skins, which is why some skin-contact wines (aka orange wines) are made from this grape, giving the wine a light amber hue.
Why Choose Organic Pinot Grigio?
Organic Pinot Grigio is not just about sustainability – it’s about purity of flavour. Grown without synthetic pesticides or herbicides, organic wines often offer more expressive fruit and a cleaner finish.
All FAB wines are curated for their organic integrity and sustainable craftsmanship, and our Pinot Grigios are no exception. Explore the full range
Top Organic Pinot Grigios at FAB
- Cantina Gorgo Pinot Grigio (Veneto, Italy) – crisp, dry, expressive
- Pig in the House Pinot Grigio (Australia) – vibrant, spiced nashi pear, Italian style
- Loverblock Pinot Gris (New Zealand) – textured, lifted, elegant
- Domaine Thomas Pinot Gris (Alsace, France) – dry to off-dry, aromatic
- Pink Sheep Pinot Gris (New Zealand) – expressive, silky, charitable
Food Pairings for Pinot Grigio & Pinot Gris
Pinot Grigio’s versatility makes it a food pairing favourite. And the best match depends on the style. Here's how to make the most of each expression:
Italian Style (Grigio) – clean, crisp, dry wines:
- Seafood: grilled white fish, oysters, prawns – especially with lemon or herb dressings
- Light pastas: olive oil-based or with vegetables, such as primavera or lemony linguine
- Vegetarian: grilled zucchini, pea and mint risotto, asparagus with parmesan
- Cheese: mild and fresh cheeses like mozzarella, burrata, or ricotta
- Asian dishes: lightly spiced Vietnamese rolls, Thai salads or sushi
French Style (Gris) – rounder, more textured and aromatic wines, sometimes with a touch of sweetness:
- Richer seafood: scallops with butter, fish with creamy sauces
- Spiced vegetarian fare: Moroccan tagines, root vegetable gratins
- Poultry and pork: especially with apple or stone fruit glazes
- Cheese: brie, camembert, or even a washed rind
- Hearty pastas: mushroom risotto, pasta with truffle cream or roasted pumpkin
- Sweet and spicy Asian dishes: kimchi fried rice, gyoza, Thai tom yum soup, bibimbap, kung pao chicken, Thai red curry, Massaman chicken curry
- Desserts: mango sticky rice, pear tart
- Bold fusion: spicy Cajun jambalaya
Whether it's a cosy dinner in winter or a light alfresco lunch, there's a Pinot Grigio or Gris to match. Australia’s mild climate means fresh, organic whites like these are loved year-round.
Pinot Grigio FAQ
Is Pinot Grigio or Gris a dry wine?
While most Pinot Grigio wines, especially those from Italy and Australia, are bone dry, there are also off dry and sweet versions. A helpful tip is in the name: if it’s labelled Grigio, it’s typically bone dry; if it’s labelled Gris, it may be off-dry or even sweet.
Is it low calorie?
Typically yes – its lower alcohol and dryness make it a lighter choice.
Is Pinot Grigio good for summer only?
It’s a fantastic choice year-round in Australia’s mild climate.
Don’t settle for mass-market Pinot Grigio. Discover the real thing – expressive, organic, and exclusive to FAB.
