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Pinot Grigio vs Pinot Gris: what's the difference?

Pinot Grigio and Pinot Gris are the same grape with an Italian name and a French name, and the label usually signals the style: Pinot Grigio is light, crisp and neutral, while Pinot Gris is rounder, richer and fruitier, so pick Grigio for easy sipping and Gris when you want more flavor.

Pinot Grigio
Pinot Gris

Same grape, two names, two moods. Grigio is Italian and Gris is French, both meaning gray, for the grape's grayish-pink skin. Winemakers outside Europe tend to pick the name that matches the style they made, which makes the label a handy clue.

Side by side

Pinot GrigioPinot Gris
GrapePinot Gris, under its Italian namePinot Gris
Where it's fromNorthern Italy, plus lots of CaliforniaAlsace in France, Oregon, New Zealand
StylePicked earlier, light and zippyPicked riper, fuller and softer
Tastes likeLemon, green apple, pearRipe pear, peach, honey, a little spice
SweetnessDryUsually dry; some from Alsace are off-dry
PriceAbout $8–25About $15–25
Best withShrimp, salads, light pastaPork, Thai food, roast chicken

When to pick Pinot Grigio

Pick Pinot Grigio when you want a clean, light white that will not get in anyone's way.

When to pick Pinot Gris

Pick Pinot Gris when you like the idea of Pinot Grigio but want more fruit and texture in the glass.

  • King Estate Pinot Gris

    about $18

    Pinot Gris

    Oregon Pinot Gris with ripe pear, juicy and round. Shows the difference clearly.

  • A to Z Pinot Gris

    about $15

    Pinot Gris

    Another Oregon pick, a little fresher than King Estate and easy on the wallet.

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Last checked 2026-10-04.