Pinot Noir and its relatives Part 4

Welcome to Vine to Wine this is your host Linda Moran. Today we continue our series on Pinot Noir and its relatives, by exploring the relative of Pinot Noir - Pinot Blanc.

Yesterday we learned that Pinot Gris is a clone of Pinot Noir and as we make our way further along the family tree we find that the grape we are discussing today Pinot Blanc is in fact a genetic mutation of Pinot Gris. The look of Pinot Blanc more closely resembles Chardonnay – so much so that in many vineyards in Europe we find them planted together, but Chardonnay is not related to Pinot Noir and often Pinot Blanc may be misidentified and called Pinot Chardonnay. In Italy it is known as Pinot Bianco and plantings are extensive. The wines are often high in acid and often blended with Muscat to make Spumante.  In the Alsace of France it is made into a very nice full bodied, lush, flavorful dry white wine. Look for the Pinot Blanc from Alsace and ask for recommendations from your local wine merchant. In California Pinot Blanc wines are made by using many of the same techniques employed in the production of Chardonnay. In general most producers will make Pinot Blanc that has the Chardonnay texture but with less fruit or nutty qualities and a bit more of a smoky quality. And don’t forget about Oregon Pinot Blanc, it is absolutely delightful with nice crisp acidity and beautiful fruit flavors. Tomorrow as we explore the grape Pinotage, and thank you for joining me on today’s Vine to Wine.