Many would instantly say that Cabernet Sauvignon is the best wine. And why not, it has a rich aroma and flavor, and age-worthiness. The origins of the Cabernet Sauvignon can be traced back to seventeenth-century France, where accidental breeding took place between the red Cabernet Franc grape plant and the white Sauvignon Blanc grape. This led to the birth of the Cabernet Sauvignon grape, which is now used in the production of Cabernet Sauvignon wine, a wine that has become one of the most popular brands in the US.
However, another brand of wine that is slowly gaining weight is Pinot Grigio. Pinot Grigio, the second-most popular wine in the US, is a type of white wine that is known for its acidic taste, paired with flavors such as lemons, green apples, and honeysuckle. Originating in Burgundy, France, the wine then found its way into Switzerland, followed by Northern Italy and then the rest of the world. Today, Pinot Grigio is the most popular imported white wine in the US. Let us now take a look at some of the top Pinot Grigio wines under $30.
Best Pinot Grigio Wines Under $30
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- Name — Venica & Venica Jesera Pinot Grigio
- Winery — Venica & Venica
- Country/Region — Italy, Friuli-Venezia Giulia, Collio
- Type — Italian Pinot Grigio
- Aroma — Caramel, Pineapple, Citrus Fruits, Apricot
- Grapes — Pinot Grigio
- Taste — Pineapple, Pear, Citrus, Apricot
- Alcohol Content — 13.5%
- Sugar — Dry
- Pairing — Scallop, Baby Greens, Branzino, Cheesy Pasta
The Venica & Venica Jesera Pinot Grigio is considered one of the best Pinot Grigio wines under $30. Also known as Pinot Gris, its origins can be traced to Alsace, France. The Jesera Pinot Grigio grape variety came about because of a genetic mutation in Pinot Noir, causing the grapes to change their color to gray. Due to this, Jesera Pinot Grigio has a copper color. The grapes used in the brewing of Jesera Pinot Grigio are grown in the vineyards of Collio DOC, a small district in Friuli-Venezia Giulia in northeastern Italy. Today, Jesera Pinot Grigio is among the top two percent of all wines in the world, according to the 2017 Vintage, and is the top Italian still white wine in terms of export volumes.
The process involves handpicking and de-stemming the grapes during the first week of September. The must on the skins of these grapes is then left for 4-8 hours at a temperature of 57.2 degrees Fahrenheit (14 degrees Celsius) in the presses. This is done to protect the grapes from oxygen by using recycled carbon dioxide derived from the first batch of grapes that had been fermented. Later, the grapes are blended well and poured into bottles during full moon periods between March and July. Jesera Pinot Grigio is characterized by a savory flavor with a refreshing, juicy, intense, slightly acidic, and creamy taste. But this possibly the best Italian Pinot Grigio under $30 is sure to leave a lingering taste in your mouth.
Best Value
- Name — Livio Felluga Pinot Grigio
- Winery — Livio Felluga
- Country/Region — Italy, Friuli-Venezia Giulia, Colli Orientali del Friuli
- Type — Italian Pinot Grigio
- Aroma — Citrus, Honey, Pear, Peach
- Grapes — Pinot Grigio
- Taste — Green Apple, Citus, Almond, Peach, Pear
- Alcohol Content — 13%
- Sugar — Dry
- Pairing — Seared Salmon, Seafood Risotto, Veal Sweetbread, Capricho De Cabra
Livio Felluga Pinot Grigio is considered to be a good Pinot Grigio under $30 which came into existence in the year 1956. The founder of the wine, Livio Felluga, was considered to be pivotal in shaping modern wine-making in Italy. Felluga started by reviving the vineyards of Rosazzo, which later helped in establishing him as the patriarch of the wines of Friuli. Today, the business is owned by Felluga’s son, Andrea Felluga.
The vineyards are known for producing high-quality wines that are lush and crisp, and the Livio Felluga Pinot Grigio is no different. Livio Felluga Pinot Grigio is derived from the bud mutation of the Pinot Noir grape.The grapes are then de-stemmed and softened by soaking in liquid, followed by crushing them softly into a pulp. The must obtain by crushing the grapes is then allowed to settle for some time, after which they are shifted to temperature-controlled stainless-steel tanks for the process of fermentation. Once the fermentation has taken place, the wine is then allowed to settle in steel tanks for roughly six months.
After six months, the wine is packed into bottles and aged in cellars for a further two months. As a result, the wine then gets its bright yellow color with tones of copper and rose. Livio Felluga Pinot Grigio wine is distinctly characterized by a rich and multi-layered taste with undertones of orange, pineapple, peach, Nashi pear, and melon. Overall, the wine has a velvety texture and tastes refreshing and fresh.
Best Under $25
- Name — Santa Margherita Pinot Grigio Valdadige
- Winery — Santa Margherita
- Country/Region — Italy, Trentino-Alto Adige, Valdadige
- Type — Italian Pinot Grigio
- Aroma — Butter, Vanilla, Oak, Straw, Grass, Hay
- Grapes — Pinot Grigio
- Taste — Apple, Lime, Honey, Cheese
- Alcohol Content — 12%
- Sugar — Dry
- Pairing — Chicken Salads, Light Pasta, Seared Salmon, Blackened Shrimps
The Santa Margherita Pinot Grigio Valdadige is considered to be the best Pinot Grigio wine under $25. Santa Margherita was the first vineyard to have fermented the pink Pinot Grigio grapes into white wine. In the year 1935, Gaetano Marzatto realized that the large swathes of land near the Venetian Lagoon had a lot of commercial value. He believed they could be converted into an agricultural complex to meet the growing demand for food. This led to the establishment of a huge cellar as Italians were slowly looking for high-quality wines to pair with their food. As a result, the birth of many white wines took place, with Pinot Grigio Valdadige DOC being one of them.
While preparing Pinot Grigio Valdadige DOC, the must of the Pinot Grigio grapes are first pressed softly, then fermented for the next 10-15 days at a temperature of 64 degrees Fahrenheit (18 degrees Celsius). Then the wine is stored at temperatures ranging between 59- and 61-degrees Fahrenheit (15-16 degrees Celsius), in stainless steel tanks till the wine is suitable enough to be packed into bottles. Pinot Grigio Valdadige DOC is a dry white wine that has a straw yellow color, characterized by a bone-dry taste and an intense aroma. The wine finishes with delicate pear, apple, and lively bubbles.
Best From United States
- Name — Joel Gott Oregon Pinot Gris
- Winery — Joel Gott
- Country/Region — United States, Oregon, Willamette Valley
- Type — Oregon Pinot Gris
- Aroma — Gooseberry, Jasmine, Honeysuckle, Pear, Peach
- Grapes — Pinot Grigio
- Taste — Cream, Pineapple, Pear, Green Apple
- Alcohol Content — 12.8%
- Sugar — Dry
- Pairing — Light Seafood, Spicy Dishes, Japanese Food, Seasoned Shellfish
Joel Gott Oregon Pinot Gris is possibly the best Pinot Grigio wine under $30 in the US. The origins of this wine can be traced back to the year 1996, where the wine was produced by selecting the best quality fruits from the regions of Washington, Oregon, and California. The main vineyard is situated in the Willamette Valley in Oregon. The vineyard was started by Joel Gott and Sarah Gott and produces wines ranging from Pinot Gris to Cabernet Sauvignon, Sauvignon Blanc, Chardonnay, Merlot, Pinot Noir, and un-oaked Chardonnay.
The grapes used in the making of Joel Gott Oregon Pinot Gris are usually planted in October and are harvested over a long period, typically six months. When the harvest period is over, the Pinot Gris grapes are sorted by hand and lightly pressed so that they do not lose their aroma. Later, the process of fermentation takes place in large stainless-steel tanks which help to preserve the taste and other characteristics of the grapes. The grapes are harvested in cooler climates giving the wine its freshness, delicacy, and rich aroma. Joel Gott Oregon Pinot Gris is famous for its dryness together with slightly bold yet sweet and acidic tones.
Best From France
- Name — Trimbach Pinot Gris Alsace Réserve
- Winery — Trimbach
- Country/Region — France, Alsace
- Type — French Pinot Gris
- Aroma — Cheese, Butter, Vanilla, Oak, Toast
- Grapes — Pinot Grigio
- Taste — Elderflower, Honeysuckle, Straw, Grass, Gooseberry
- Alcohol Content — 13.5%
- Sugar — Semi-Dry
- Pairing — Spicy Dishes, Grilled Chicken, Cheese Crab, Seared Scallops
Trimbach Pinot Gris Alsace Réserve is a French wine counted among the best Pinot Grigios under $30. The origins of this wine date back to the year 1626, when the Maison Trimbach winery came into existence. Since then, twelve generations of the Trimbach family have maintained the legacy of these wines, which are famous for their excellent quality, authenticity, and taste. Today, the winery is run by Hubert Trimbach along with his nephews Jean and Pierre, and Pierre’s daughter Anne, who is also the oldest member of the thirteenth generation of the Trimbach family. Trimbach Pinot Gris Alsace Réserve wine is produced using high-quality grapes that are carefully fermented and maintained at controlled temperatures, which give the wine its authentic color and taste.
At the Trimbach vineyard, the grapes are carefully harvested by hand, followed by delicately pressing them to extract the juice. When the juice has been withdrawn from the grapes, they are then preserved either in stainless steel tanks or old wooden casks. During the spring season, Trimbach wine is bottled to ensure that the fruit-like taste of the wine flourishes which helps the wine develop its distinct taste. Trimbach Pinot Gris Alsace Réserve is said to have a medium acidic palate, with a mostly dry after taste. The wine is said to also have undertones of grape juice, gooseberry, and lime.
Best From Argentina
- Name — Pulenta Estate Pinot Gris (XIV)
- Winery — Pulenta Estate
- Country/Region — Argentina, Mendoza, Agrelo
- Type — Argentinian Pinot Gris
- Aroma — Butter, Oak, Vanilla, Hibiscus, Jasmine
- Grapes — Pinot Grigio
- Taste — Honey, Straw, Grass, Cheese, Banana
- Alcohol Content — 13%
- Sugar — Dry
- Pairing — Seared Scallops, Corny Chicken, Mushroom Dishes, Vegetarian Food
Holm Oak Tasmania Pinot Gris is a wine that has its origins in Australia. This wine is produced on the Holm Oak Vineyards that were established in the year 1983. The name Holm Oak can be attributed to the Holm Oak trees that grow on the vineyard in the Tamar Valley, Tasmania, Australia. Holm Oak Tasmania Pinot Gris is one of the few wines that belong to family-owned vineyards that grow and bottle their wines on site. Holm Oak Tasmania Pinot Gris wine is produced by harvesting the grapes at the right temperatures. For the harvest to take place, the grape should be crispy and display pear-like characteristics, and must have a slight tinge of citrus.
When the grapes have been harvested, they are then fermented by separating 20 percent of the wine extract in old oak barrels using locally produced yeast. The remaining 80 percent of the wine extract is fermented under cool temperatures in large tanks to preserve their pleasant aroma. The wine is matured for six months on lees and then filtered before it is bottled and sold to consumers. As far as tasting notes are concerned, Holm Oak Tasmania Pinot Gris is known to be slightly spicy with a tinge of acid along with lifted pear and jasmine.
Best From Australia
- Name — Holm Oak Pinot Gris
- Winery — Holm Oak
- Country/Region — Australia, Tasmania
- Type — Australian Pinot Gris
- Aroma — Peach, Pear, Citrus, Apricot
- Grapes — Pinot Grigio
- Taste — Citrus, Lemon Peel, Pear, Peach, Nutty, Hazelnut, Chestnut
- Alcohol Content — 13.5%
- Sugar — Semi-Dry
- Pairing — Salmon Carpaccio, Grilled Sea Bass, Roasted Chicken, Shellfish
Holm Oak Tasmania Pinot Gris is a wine that has its origins in Australia. This wine is produced on the Holm Oak Vineyards that were established in the year 1983. The name Holm Oak can be attributed to the Holm Oak trees that grow on the vineyard in the Tamar Valley, Tasmania, Australia. Holm Oak Tasmania Pinot Gris is one of the few wines that belong to family-owned vineyards that grow and bottle their wines on site. Holm Oak Tasmania Pinot Gris wine is produced by harvesting the grapes at the right temperatures. For the harvest to take place, the grape should be crispy and display pear-like characteristics, and must have a slight tinge of citrus.
When the grapes have been harvested, they are then fermented by separating 20 percent of the wine extract in old oak barrels using locally produced yeast. The remaining 80 percent of the wine extract is fermented under cool temperatures in large tanks to preserve their pleasant aroma. The wine is matured for six months on lees and then filtered before it is bottled and sold to consumers. As far as tasting notes are concerned, Holm Oak Tasmania Pinot Gris is known to be slightly spicy with a tinge of acid along with lifted pear and jasmine.
Best From New Zealand
- Name — Astrolabe Province Pinot Gris
- Winery — Astrolabe
- Country/Region — New Zealand, South Island, Marlborough
- Type — New Zealand Pinot Gris
- Aroma — Apple, Pear, Toffee, Vanilla, Citrus
- Grapes — Pinot Grigio
- Taste — Baked Apple, Honeysuckle, Pineapple, Melon, Apricot
- Alcohol Content — 13.5%
- Sugar — Semi-Dry
- Pairing — Chicken Curry, Seared Salmon, Spicy Foods, Light Desserts
Astrolabe Province Pinot Gris originated in Marlborough, New Zealand. This wine is made from grapes that are sourced from the Marlborough sub-regions of the Wairau Valley, the Kekerengu Coast, and the Awatere Valley. Astrolabe Province Pinot Gris came into existence in the year 1996, when well-known winemaker Simon Waghorn decided to start his wine label and chose the name ‘Astrolabe’. Simon Waghorn chose Marlborough to produce wines under the brand name Astrolabe, as he believed that the fruits grown in the region have an intense and distinct taste all their own. Something which cannot be found anywhere else.
The Marlborough region is known for its white wines, which have a unique aroma, and the Pinot Noir. Those who have had Astrolabe Province Pinot Gris might be familiar with the wine’s special taste and smell. The grapes used in the brewing of Astrolabe Province Pinot Gris are usually harvested using machines at night and then cluster-pressed to preserve their juice-like texture. The rest of the harvested grapes are picked by hand to add fine texture, weight, and minerality to the wine.
The grapes in the vinery are carefully handled which helps to maintain their color, texture, and taste, even after the process of fermentation has taken place and the wine has been bottled. Astrolabe Province Pinot Gris has an aroma that reminds one of pear, quince, nougat, and cardamom. The dominant flavors of the wine include stone-fruit and pear, while the texture is crisp and dry, though the wine has a fine delicacy to it.
Honorable Mention 1
- Name — Terlato Pinot Grigio
- Winery — Terlato
- Country/Region — Italy, Friuli-Venezia Giulia, Colli Orientali del Friuli
- Type — Italian Pinot Grigio
- Aroma — Butter, Oak, Vanilla, Tomato, Chard
- Grapes — Pinot Grigio
- Taste — Pear, Citrus Fruits, Cheese, Honey
- Alcohol Content — 14.2%
- Sugar — Dry
- Pairing — Shrimp Scampi, Cheese Pasta, Scallops, Lemon Sauce Chicken, White Sauce Pasta
Terlato Pinot Grigio is a type of white wine that is grown in the Friuli Colli Orientali DOC region in Italy. This region is located at the foothills of the Austrian and Slovenian Alps. Terlato Pinot Grigio has also made strides in the American markets since the wine is also grown in the wineries of California. The grapes used in the production of Terlato Pinot Grigio are carefully cultivated, pruned, and handpicked to create full-bodied wines that have an expressive fruit and mineral-like character.
The grapes, once plucked, are divided into two batches. While one batch is fermented in wooden barrels, the other one is fermented in stainless steel tanks. Both the batches are then stirred on the lees for approximately a year, followed by blending and bottling the wine. Terlato Pinot Grigio is known for its creamy texture and floral taste with a fruit palate consisting of pears and almonds.
Honorable Mention 2
- Name — Elena Walch Pinot Grigio Alto Adige Castel Ringberg
- Winery — Elena Walch
- Country/Region — Italy, Trentino-Alto Adige
- Type — Italian Pinot Grigio
- Aroma — Lychee, Lemon, Peach, Apricot, Apple
- Grapes — Pinot Grigio
- Taste — Sweet Apples, Yellow Plums, Peach, Vanilla, Baking Spice
- Alcohol Content — 13.5%
- Sugar — Dry
- Pairing — Green Chicken Curry, Seared Halibut, Parmesan Focaccia, Seared Scallops
Elena Walch is a leading and well-known producer of wine in Alto Adige and is considered to be a part of the elite Italian wine production. One of the major principles of Elena Walch is that the wines produced reflect the various terrains they have originated from. Like the other wines produced in Alto Adige, Elena Walch Pinot Grigio Alto Adige Castel Ringberg (to give its full name) is known for its high quality and the sustainable practices that have been used to produce it.
Elena Walch Pinot Alto Adige Castel Ringberg is famous for its subtle aromas that remind one of honeydew melon, white stone fruit, and the Alpine wildflower. Moreover, the wine is also known for its spicy taste and notes of ripe yellow pears, lime, and white almond. Overall, the wine is said to be structured and well-bodied, along with having a creamy fullness and density.
Conclusion
Pinot Grigio wines are considered to be among the best white wines in the world. They are known for their fruit-like taste, aroma, and the fact that they are neither too sweet nor too acidic. Most of the wines can be paired with any type of food, and can also be had as a refreshing drink.
