Pinot bianco

The Pinot Bianco is a white grape variety belonging to the Pinot family (it comes from a mutation of Pinot Grigio, in turn from a mutation of Pinot Nero). It is prized for its an elegant, delicate and versatile profile, with good acidity and the ability to adapt to both simple and complex winemaking, including with ageing on the lees or in wood.

In Italy it finds its best expression in Alto Adige, where it gives rise to fresh, mineral, long-lived wines, but it is also grown in Friuli Venezia Giulia, Trentino, Lombardy, and part of the Veneto.

Distribution

Ampelographic characteristics

• Bunch: compact, medium-sized

• Berry: small, thick skin, greenish-yellow

• Ripening: mid-season

• Good natural acidity

• Suited both to cool climates (high altitude) and to temperate ones

Sensory profile of the wine

Colour:

• Straw yellow with pale green highlights when young

• Tends towards gold with ageing

Aromas:

• Fruit: green apple, pear, white peach

• Flowers: hawthorn, acacia

• Herbs: sage, thyme, camomile

• In the evolved or sur lie versions: hazelnut, fresh butter, yeast, hay

Palate:

• Fresh, dry, elegant, with good savouriness

• Medium to full body

• The finish is often almondy, typical

• Excellent capacity for ageing, above all in the structured versions

Winemaking styles

Main Italian appellations

• Alto Adige Pinot Bianco DOC

• Trentino DOC Pinot Bianco

• Friuli Colli Orientali DOC

• Franciacorta DOCG (as a base grape for sparkling wines)

• Oltrepò Pavese DOC

Food pairings

• Seafood starters, baked fish, amberjack tartare

• Fresh and bloomy-rind cheeses (brie, stracchino)

• Pasta with vegetables, herb risotto, savoury tarts

• Seasonal salads, vegetarian dishes

• Eggs and asparagus, spring omelettes

Why choose a Pinot Bianco?

For its aromatic finesse and versatility at the table
Because it offers freshness and minerality, without giving up structure
Because it can express great elegance in selected, long-lived versions
It is perfect for those who love balanced, food-friendly and unobtrusive wines