Not all wine is created equal, especially Sauvignon Blanc vs Pinot Grigio. So, what’s the difference between these two white wines? Let’s dive into the different flavor profiles.
Which is better Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc?
It depends on what you like! If you want a dry wine with high acidity and a bit tarter, ask for a Sauvignon Blanc. If you want a sweeter style of wine, but still on the drier side, you may want to ask for a glass of Pinot Grigio. They're some of the most popular white wines and for good reason! Let's get into the main differences.
Let’s talk about Sauvignon Blanc
Sauvignon blanc is a type of wine made from Sauvignon Blanc grapes.
Is a Sauvignon Blanc sweet or dry?
Sauvignon blanc wines tend to be drier due to the higher acidity. If you like dry white wines, this varietal could be for you.
Sauvignon Blanc flavor profile
The familiar fruity flavors you'll find in a glass of sauv blanc is green apple, stone fruit like white peach or apricot, tropical fruit like pineapple, notes of citrus fruits like grapefruit or lime, and even some grassy notes. These, among other flavors, make for a crisp wine that is a great choice, especially in the summer.
Where is Sauvignon Blanc from?
Sauvignon blanc is typically from the Malborough region in New Zealand, the Bordeaux region of France, or the Loire Valley in France. You can also find Sauvignon Blanc varietals from the United States, California to be specific or South Africa.
Sauvignon Blanc food pairings
Sauvignon blanc goes great with seafood dishes, white meats like chicken or sauces, and dressings made with fresh herbs, like pesto.
Recipes to try with Sauvignon Blanc
- Mediterranean Grilled Shrimp
- Air Fryer Shrimp Tacos
- Air Fryer Pistachio Crusted Salmon
- Baked Crispy Chicken Tacos
- Air Fryer BBQ Chicken
- Pesto Tortellini Pasta Salad
Let’s talk about Pinot Grigio
Pinot grigio wine is a varietal made with pinot gris grapes. Pinot gris grapes are descendants of the pinot noir grape. So, unlike a traditional white wine grape, the pinot gris grape actually has a blue-ish hue.
Is Pinot Grigio white dry or sweet?
Pinot grigio is a type of white wine style that perfectly balances a drier taste while still being a light body, sweet wine. It isn't as sweet as varietals like riesling wines. If you like dry, fruity wines that aren't as tart as the Sauvignon Blanc varietal wine, you may want to try this.
Is Pinot Grigio a good white wine?
I'd say yes! It's a great everyday wine that won't break the bank. It's a great option and you can get a fairly nice bottle for under $20, easily.
Where is Pinot Grigio from?
Pinot Grigio originated in the Burgundy region of France, then made it's way up to Switzerland and eventually became incredibly popular in northern Italy, specifically the Lombardy, the Veneto, Friuli, Trentino and Alto Adige regions.
Why do wine snobs hate Pinot Grigio?
The Pinot Grigio debate, is it too simple? Some wine experts and enthusiasts dislike Pinot Grigio because they claim it is too simple and not complex enough compared to other white wines, like a glass of chardonnay.
Pinot Grigio food pairings
Pinot grigio has a lot of similar pairings to Sauvignon Blanc. You'll want to pair a cold bottle of Pinot Grigio with lighter seafood dishes, stay away from the cream sauce, chicken dishes, fresh salads and it pairs really nicely with citrus-forward dishes, like chicken limone.
Recipes to try with Pinot Grigio
Let's compare: Sauvignon Blanc vs Pinot Grigio
Aside from them both being very drinkable white wine varietals, let's compare.
Sauvignon blanc vs Pinot Grigio for cooking
Pinot grigio is the more neutral of the two. So, if you're looking for a neutral, subtle white wine flavor, I recommend going with Pinot Grigio. However, if you want to add a tinge of acidity, cook with a Sauvignon Blanc. It's especially good in heavy cream sauces to cut the fat.
Is there more sugar in Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio?
Both wines are incredibly low in residual sugar coming in with less than 1g of sugar per glass on average. It's safe to say that both wines are low in sugar.
Which has more alcohol Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc?
Sauvignon Blanc has 12.5 to 14.5 percent ABV whereas Pinot Grigio has about 12.5 to 13.5 percent ABV. The alcohol level of both are incredibly comparable, you'll just have to look at the bottle you are buying!
Overall, here's what I recommend.
Sauvignon Blanc
Sauvignon Blanc is one of my go-to summertime wines. The tropical fruit and stone fruit flavors make it so crisp and refreshing. If you like a bit of tartness and tropical fruit flavors, opt for Sauvignon Blanc. If you're lost as to what to buy, look for a Sauvignon Blanc from New Zealand.
If you like sweeter wine and want to venture out from sweet rieslings and beyond, I recommend starting with Sauvignon Blanc. Some people even enjoy it as a dessert wine. It may be considered dry, but it is made with such a range of fruits that you will be able to find a bottle on the sweeter side that you will enjoy.
Some of my favorites include Bread & Butter, Kim Crawford, Kirkland (yes, Costco!) and Oyster Bay.
Pinot Grigio
Pinot Grigio is a great year-round drink and pairs with nearly everything, incredibly neutral and user-friendly wine. Plus, it's very affordable. I drink Pinot Grigio probably the most when comparing Sauvignon Blanc vs Pinot Grigio. If you haven't cooked with wine before, I recommend starting with Pinot Grigio.
Some of my favorites are Chloe, Ecco Domani, and Josh Cellars.
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