Pinot Blanc

Definition - What does Pinot Blanc mean?

Pinot Blanc is a white wine grape variety which is made from a genetic mutation of Pinot Gris. Pinot Blanc wines have a high acidity content and non-distinct aroma, which makes it possible for these wines to be full-bodied, dry or sweet. It is originally from Burgundy in eastern France, but, it is now mostly associated with Alsace, even though Pinot Blanc wines are also produced in Germany, Italy, Slovakia, Luxembourg, Austria, Palatinate etc.

WineFrog explains Pinot Blanc

Pinot Blanc is one of those wines that can be made using a variety of methods. In Alsace, the berry flavor is given the top priority while avoiding oak aging. In California, the wine is fermented and oak aged for nine months before it is bottled in order to enhance the flavor of the wine. In Italy, heavily concentrated grapes are found in the northeastern region, which contribute towards the flavor of the wine during fermentation. All three of these wine making processes, despite their differences, are globally popular.

Pinot Blanc is often mistaken for Chardonnay because of the similar characteristics they possess including a higher acidity index, lower aromatics and their similar appearance; but the final Pinot Blanc wine product is actually somewhat lighter than that of Chardonnay. Its most distinct characteristics are that Pinot Blanc is slightly sour in taste with good acidity, and a medium to high alcohol content.