DRINK DIFFERENT - SHADES OF GREY

Pinot Grigio remains one of the most popular crowd-pleasing choices on any wine list.  With its light, aromatic character, the best examples have citrus, pear and honey on the palate.  For many years it was this wine alone which kept our interest in Italian white wines alive.

Unfortunately, as with most faddy wines, Pinot Grigio has become a victim of its own success.  Struggling to keep up with demand, too many winemakers have taken the easy way out, increasing yields and producing disappointingly insipid and bland bottles.

There is an alternative, though.  In fact, it’s exactly the same grape, although few realise it: Pinot Gris.  Seek out an example made in Alsace, the eastern-most region of France, right on the German border, and you will rediscover what this grape should be all about: full-bodied and spicy with apricot, peach and a hint of smoke