07/21/2026
All About Pinot!
Grapes in this family grow in tight, conical bunches, reminiscent of a pine cone. It’s this likeness that gave them the Pinot name!
There are six different grape varietals in the Pinot Family, and each of those has several synonyms depending on where in the world it is being grown. The big three though are Pinot Blanc, Pinot Gris, and Pinot Noir. That second name in these cases refers to the color of the grape, so Pinot Blanc is a white (or green) skinned variant of the Pinot grape, and Pinot Noir is a black skinned variation. Gris/Grigio means grey, but who’s ever heard of a grey w**e?!
The skins of Pinot Gris grapes develop a pinkish/grey color when fully ripe, and this can be used to make a rosé style w**e! This Pinot Gris Rosé from Nichol W**ery in BC saw a 36 hour skin contact period where that pinkish color bleeds from the skins and tints the w**e a beautiful pink. The result is a rosé bursting with flavours of nectarine, and despite these grapes being so fully ripened, this w**e still shows wicked high acidity. It’s crisp, complex, and perfect for dinner on the patio.
If a more standard Pinot Grigio is your thing, then look no further than Dal Cero. This is a Veneto Pinot Grigio made with quality over quantity, and gives clear melon and mineral notes.
For Pinot Blanc, consider Austria. This offering from Prieler gives an intense pear note which can even stray into a banana like realm.
Finally, Pinot Noir, this entry from Frey comes from Rheinhessen, Germany. This cooler climate gives tart aromas of red currant and cranberry.
No matter which bottle you choose, you’re getting a fantastic w**e.
