Pinot Grigio is the Italian name for the French Pinot Gris grape. The names are often used interchangeably and although the same grape, the varietals differ in characteristics as well as reputation.
Many wine buffs consider Pinot Grigio to be a product of mass-produced, commercial, bland wines, generally a rather unremarkable experience. This might be an unfair label; nevertheless many Pinot Grigios come off as neutral, tart and flavorless.
Generally speaking, Italian Pinot Grigios are fresh and inexpensive, which is also why they are suitable for the mass-market. However, it is also possible to find Italian varietals that unmask the grape’s true character, but you might need to search beyond the supermarket’s wine aisle to find these.
In such cases expect wines that are fairly rich with medium acidity and flavors and aromas of citrus, pear and melon.
Although the wines are white the skin of the grape is actually pink.