How to Drink Pinot Grigio Without Embarrassing Yourself

Take any definition of a professional Pinot Grigio drinker with a pinch of salt, then add it to the dish you’re serving. This white wine is a craft of the Northern vineyards of Italy, where it is traditionally said to have a note of high acidity with an apple–citrus aroma. 

So what are some things you should know about versatile wine?

What is the best way to drink Pinot Grigio?

Pinot Grigio slightly cooled to between 45- and 55-degrees Fahrenheit, with or without food, when the taste is the best. 

But when considering dishes, think along the lines of light meals with white meats, seafood, and fish and think zesty with lemon or lime. In wine terms, being called “young” means the bottle life is within two years of the vintage date.

What should you avoid if you’re around seasoned Pinot Grigio drinkers?

A few simple things are not to over chill the wine and avoid, at all costs, any acidic or tomato-based dishes. Foods with heavy sauces or dishes with high levels of citric flavor may overwhelm the wine’s natural flavors. 

Likewise, avoid overly spicy or processed foods when drinking Pinot Grigio; better pair the wine with fresh foods, especially freshly caught fish.

When should you drink Pinot Grigio?

This white wine is perfect for the summertime, not just because it has that crisp, refreshing finish. 

Are you going for a picnic? Pack some salty crackers, some cheese (something like feta), and other salty snacks along with the fresh-caught grilled salmon seasoned and topped with a slice of lemon. Take a bottle of Pinot Grigio with you, and it will complement the food well.

Pinot Grigio is also suitable for those formal occasions when entertaining office guests or honored guests—served with good seafood, lobster cakes, or zesty pasta with garlic bread baked that day.

Of course, a friend’s dinner party works just as well. Either way, their home or yours, a bottle of wine is a welcomed gift. 

Here the wine provides a nice light beverage for talking around the table, lounging out on the patio, or even watching a movie with a few close friends on the couch.

How much Pinot Grigio should you sip each time you drink?

In the most formal settings, proper etiquette would say that one should sip Pinot Grigio. A guest would take in the aroma and taste the wine; some of the best tasters can tell the vineyard by doing only those two things.

Sipping, though recommended, is not required when it comes to the not-so-formal settings, like a dinner party. Moderation, as they say.

Final Thoughts on Drinking Pinot Grigio Like a Pro

Pinot Grigio is best at 45 to 55 degrees Fahrenheit with a portion of light food such as chicken, seafood, or lightly sauced portions of pasta.

Avoid anything that is overly spicy, tomato-based, or anything processed. Stick to fresh foods like freshly caught fish or freshly baked bread. Pinot Grigio is a versatile wine, perfect for summer activities such as picnics or quiet evenings.

Remember to sip informal settings, which will impress when/if you need to; Otherwise, enjoy your wine, In moderation.