The Difference Between Pinot Blanc, Pinot Gris, and Pinot Noir Blanc
The Science of the Pinot Family
Pinot Blanc, Pinot Noir Blanc, and Pinot Gris all stem from the remarkable Pinot Noir grape. While they look and taste different, it is essential to recognize that all three are genetic clones of Pinot Noir.
They are not different species; they are distinct mutations of the same vine. Despite their shared lineage, they have developed distinct personalities. Delve into their flavor profiles below to fully appreciate the nuances within the Pinot family.
Did you know?
We use these unique Pinot clones to create our signature Sparkling Wines. Join us Dec 27 for the Big Bubble Bash to taste 12 of them side-by-side (including our library Pinot Blanc bubbles!).
1. Pinot Blanc
Pinot Blanc is a genetic mutation of Pinot Noir that affects the pigment of the grape skin. It is renowned for its elegance and is often referred to as "the poor man's Chardonnay" in Burgundy, though we believe it deserves top billing.
The Profile: Delight your senses with bright notes of zesty lemon, succulent pear, crisp apple, and delicate apricot. You'll often discover a subtle undertone of almonds and a stony minerality.
In Our Vineyard: Despite being a cool-climate grape, Pinot Blanc is late-ripening. It thrives in our Yamhill-Carlton AVA, retaining freshness and purity.
2. Pinot Gris
Pinot Gris ("Gray Pinot") is born from a mutation that leaves the skins with a stunning mauve/gray hue at harvest. While Pinot Noir is a red wine, Pinot Gris takes on a completely different persona.
The Profile: Indulge in luscious notes of ripe apple and juicy pear, interwoven with a delicate touch of honey. As you explore further, you'll encounter hints of flint and spearmint.
The Style: We prefer our Estate Pinot Gris to be dry, allowing the bracing acidity and steely minerality to shine through.
3. Pinot Noir Blanc
This is the "trickster" of the family. Pinot Noir Blanc is a white wine made from red grapes.
How it's made: The juice of almost every grape is clear. The color comes from the skins. For Pinot Noir Blanc, we handpick red Pinot Noir grapes and press them immediately, separating the juice from the skins before any red color can leach out.
The Profile: Prepare to be enchanted by aromas of crisp apple, peach, and honeydew melon. It has the weight and texture of a red wine, but the crisp flavors of a white.
Taste the Difference
At Kramer Vineyards, we are dedicated to exploring every facet of the Pinot grape. Whether you appreciate the refined elegance of Pinot Noir Blanc or the captivating flavors of Pinot Gris, we invite you to taste them side-by-side.
*Intrigued by the red wine expression? Shop our Estate Pinot Noir here.