A Tour of Wine Grapes: Pinot Blanc



Pinot Blanc 🥂

Pinot Blanc (pee-noh blahnk) originated centuries ago in Burgundy, France. It is not a separate grape species, but a natural, white-skinned color mutation of the red Pinot Noir grape. In fact, it shares the exact same genetic DNA fingerprint as Pinot Noir and Pinot Gris.

It wasn't until 1895 that grape experts officially identified Pinot Blanc as its own distinct variety. Eventually, Burgundy phased it out in favor of Chardonnay.

Today, Pinot Blanc thrives in cool-climate vineyards across Europe and the New World, changing its name and personality depending on where it is grown. For example, in France, it serves as the base for Crémant d'Alsace which is France's most popular non-Champagne sparkling wine. In Germany, it is known locally as Weissburgunder. And, in Italy, it’s called Pinot Bianco.

The Pinot Blanc grape produces medium to full-bodied white wines with aromas of green apple, lemon zest, pear with floral notes. On the palate, these wines are described as zesty and refreshing with flavors of citrus and stone fruits, with moderate to high acidity.

Serve Pinot Blanc well-chilled between 45–50°F in a standard white wine glass

Behind the Cork™ - Terra Alpina Pinot Bianco

Terra Alpina Pinot Bianco.jpg

2018 Terra Alpina Pinot Bianco ($15)

This 100% Pinot Bianco is from the Dolomiti region of Italy. Located in the far northern reaches of alpine Italy, it experiences warm Mediterranean influences as well as cool Alpine breezes.

The Lageder family firmly believes that organic and biodynamic cultivation benefits the wine, but also the whole surrounding area and have fully converted all of their estate vineyards in Alto Adige.

This Terra Alpina Pinot Bianco is from vines that are 5 to 50 years old that are planted in mostly calcareous soils. Hence, it has fresh fruit flavors with a bit of minerality.

This Pinot Bianco spends up to four months on the lees and four to six months aging in Stainless-steel tanks.

On the nose there are tropical fruit aromas, including pineapple, a bit of citrus and pear.

On the palate, this wine is soft and easy with ripe pear flavor and just a hint of acidity.

If you aren’t already familiar with the Pinot Bianco grape, this is an excellent way to become acquainted. Cheers!

Disclosure of Wine Sample Submission: I received this wine at no cost for review. The opinions expressed are entirely my own.

Sample Provided by Anika Crone, Jarvis Communications