As the name suggests, Pinot Blanc, or Pinot Bianco in Italian, is a white grape variety used to produce white wine. This grape is a mutation of Pinot Noir as and they share many characteristics. However, Pinot Blanc contains little to no tannins (it is a white grape after all) and has medium acidity. Its taste depends a lot on the territory where this grape is grown. In general, Pinot Blanc has aromas of almond, apple, and a light touch of minerals. Importantly, Pinot Blanc can benefit greatly from maturation in oak barrels.

Pinot Blanc Grape Profile

Where is Pinot Blanc from?

Pinot Blanc is planted mainly in Germany, Alto Adige region of Italy and in the Alsace region of France (where we can also find Riesling and Gewürztraminer). This grape variety is also frequently found in Switzerland, Austria, the USA, and Canada.

Interesting story about Pinot Blanc

Grapes like Melon de Bourgogne and Chardonnay have often been often confused with Pinot Blanc because they have many similarities. However, Pinot Blanc is a completely different grape variety that belongs to Pinot group of wines.

Pinot Blanc grape characteristics

Pinot Blanc adapts well to northern areas with deep and rocky soils. This grape is much more fertile than other Pinot varieties, which preserves its regularity in production. The vine is very strong and resists cold quite well, even though it is quite sensitive to diseases during its maturation.

Pinot Blanc Wines

This grape variety responds very well to oak ripening. In France, it is often blended with Klevner, also known as "true Pinot" and Auxerrois to give it more of an Alsace touch. Pinot Blanc is also used to make sweet and sparkling wines such as Crémant d'Alsace.

What to pair with Pinot Blanc?

Pinot Blanc Schrimp Food Pairing

Pinot Blanc is perfect for salads and soft cheeses. We can also pair it with white meat such as chicken and grilled seafood. This type of wine is also made to be enjoyed alone, so do not wait for the food to enjoy its enveloping taste.

Where to find the best Pinot Blanc wines

Untitled Design (7)61f3d89b62dca

Lombardy

Here are some wineries in Lombardy where you can taste the best Pinot Blanc wines:

Limone town in Lombardy wine region

Veneto

Here are some wineries in Veneto where you can taste the best Pinot Blanc wines:

Piave Veneto

Baden

Here are some wineries in Baden where you can taste the best Pinot Blanc wines:

1280px-switzerland-baden-oldcityview Ns4qow

Haut-Rhin

Here are some wineries in Haut-Rhin where you can taste the best Pinot Blanc wines:

Depositphotos 320916458-stock-photo-martin-church-colmar-haut-rhin-1 Jtmlxy

Frequently Asked Questions about Pinot Blanc

Is Pinot Blanc the same as Pinot Grigio?

No, Pinot Blanc and Pinot Gris belong to Pinot group of wines but they are different grape varieties, you can distinguish them even by grape color as Pinot Gris has pinkish tone while Pinot Blanc is more greenish.

What does Pinot Blanc taste like?

Pinot Blanc is quite versatile grape: it is commonly used in production of dry wines but also you can easily find sweet wine such ice wine from Canada or sparkling wine Franciacorta from Italy.

Is Pinot Blanc a sweet wine?

Grüner Veltliner makes excellent white dry wine.

What is the difference between Pinot Blanc and Pinot Noir?

Both grape varieties belong to Pinot group of grapes but Pinot Blanc is white grape while Pinot Noir is red grape which establish completely different taste and aroma characteristics.

Where does Pinot Blanc come from?

Pinot Blanc originates from Burgundy, France.

Where is Pinot Blanc grown?

Pinot Blanc is grown in various wine regions around the world, including France (Alsace), Germany, Italy, Austria, the United States, and Canada.

What foods pair well with Pinot Blanc?

Pinot Blanc pairs well with a variety of dishes, including seafood, shellfish, poultry, salads, light pasta dishes, and creamy cheeses. Its versatility makes it a great match for many cuisines.

How does Pinot Blanc compare to Chardonnay?

Pinot Blanc is generally lighter and crisper than Chardonnay, with less pronounced oak influence. It often showcases more subtle fruit flavors and a vibrant acidity.

Related articles

Pinotage

Pinotage

Pinotage, a distinctive South African grape variety, is a captivating fusion of Pinot Noir and Cinsault. Developed in the early 20th century, it thrives in the nation's diverse terroirs. Known for its inky hue and complex flavors, Pinotage offers a medley of red and dark fruits—cherry, plum, and...

Nero d'Avola

Nero d'Avola

Nero d'Avola, a prominent Sicilian grape variety, yields wines brimming with rich character. Native to the sun-drenched island, this red grape produces wines with deep color, robust body, and a medley of dark fruit flavors such as plum, black cherry, and blackberry. Often referred to as...

Muscat grape

Muscat grape

Muscat wine, renowned for its distinct and aromatic profile, stems from the Muscat grape family. With origins dating back to ancient times, Muscat wines encompass a captivating array of styles, from dry to sweet. Their hallmark is the unmistakable floral and fruity bouquet, often exuding notes...

Barbera

Barbera

Barbera grapes, renowned for their vibrant character, thrive in the rolling vineyards of Italy. Originating in the Piedmont region, these grapes yield wines cherished for their lively acidity, deep color, and approachable nature. The Barbera varietal is often celebrated for its versatility,...

Petit Verdot

Petit Verdot

Petit Verdot, a captivating and distinctive red grape variety, plays a unique and intriguing role in the world of winemaking. Originally hailing from the Bordeaux region of France, it's often referred to as the "hidden gem" due to its historical use as a blending component, adding depth and...

Mourvedre

Mourvedre

Mourvèdre, a captivating red grape varietal, exudes its charm predominantly in the Mediterranean vineyards. Native to Spain, it thrives in arid climates, ripening late and revealing its full splendor. Also known as Monastrell in Spain and Mataro in Australia, this grape boasts thick-skinned...

Malvasia

Malvasia

Malvasia is a grape variety that has enchanted wine lovers for centuries. With its origins deeply rooted in the Mediterranean, Malvasia has traversed continents, leaving a trail of exceptional wines of feasible colour in dry, sparkling and sweet styles.   Malvasia is a wine that comes...

Picpoul

Picpoul

Picpoul, also known as Piquepoul, is a historical white grape variety widely grown in the South of France, particularly in the Languedoc region. It has an remarkable ability to retain its freshness and acidity even in the hot and arid climate of Southern France. Picpoul wines produced today are...