Sauvignon Blanc vs Pinot Grigio – What is the Difference?

Chardonnay-tips

About Sauvignon Blanc

Sauvignon Blanc

Parent grape to Cabernet Sauvignon, Sauvignon Blanc is a white wine which comes in various styles. From beautiful and delicate taste from France to aromatic and fruity flavors from New Zealand.

Sancerre, a type of Sauvignon Blanc from Loire Valley, France is known to exhibit smoky flavors, ripe gooseberry aromas and acidity. Whereas, on the other hand, Sauvignon Blanc from New Zealand is famous for it’s high acidity, bold herbaceous aroma’s of grapefruit, gooseberry and lime.

The name Sauvignon Blanc means “Wild White” and the grape is related to Traminer with origins in the South of France.

If you’re interested in reading more about Cabernet Sauvignon, read this article to know whether it’s sweet or dry?

About Pinot Grigio

Pinot Gregio

Easy to match with food, Pinot Grigio is considered to be a crisp and dry wine to clean your palate after each bite. Not as widely planted as Sauvignon Blanc, it makes Pinot Grigio much delicate and rare than others.

Originally known as ‘Pinot Gris’ because of the grape’s blueish gray hue, this wine originated from Italy. As compared to Sauvignon Blanc, it has a quite neutral aroma and bitter aftertaste.   

It is crisp and dry with light acidity and flavors that resemble lemon, lime or apple.

To know more about Pinot Grigio in detail, check out our review!

Difference between Sauvignon Blanc & Pinot Grigio

Difference

Sauvignon Blanc

Pinot Grigio

Origin

South of France, Italy, Spain, Romania and Moldova

Burgundy Regions, France

Taste

Taste of lime, green apple, passion fruit and white peach. Other notes are  bell pepper, jalapeño, gooseberry and grass

Complex taste of green apple, peach, lime & banana. Other notes of saline, honey, almond, spice of cinnamon, clove, and ginger

Acidity

Medium to High Level, puckering sensation

High level, mouth watering sensation

Alcohol

High Level

Medium Level

Taste Profile

Dry & Sweet both

Dry & Sweet both

Serving Temperature

Unoaked: 46 ºF (8 ºC)
Oaked: 52 ºF (11 ºC)

Unoaked: 45-50 degrees

Food Pairing Options

Chicken, Pork, Herbs like Parsley, Thyme, Dill, Goat’s cheese, Yogurt, zucchini, cucumber

Crudites, Prosciutto and other cured meats, smoked salmon, fresh fruits, salty olives, sweets, jellies, tarts, and mild, creamy, soft cheese, and fresh mozzarella

Production Regions

Bordeaux, Loire Valley, Italy, Spain, Marlborough, Martinborough, Gisbourne, Hawkes Bay, and Waipara Valley, Napa

Burgundy & Alsace Region of France, Germany, Austria, Oregon, USA, Australia, New Zealand

Final Word

Both Sauvignon Blanc and Pinot Grigio are white wines which depending on their wine makers can be both sweet & dry. Popular in France & Italy, these wines have a classic taste and pair up perfectly with almost all kinds of cheeses, herbs & meats.


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