Varietal Classics: Pinot Grigio
2015: Gold 2 Silver 2 Bronze 2 Commended 7
2014: Gold 3 Silver 0 Bronze 2 Commended 3
Pinot Grigio is like Strictly… not much critical credibility but popular with the masses. And while the trade might struggle to get excited about it, most somms are quite happy to see the money rolling in from it. As usual, this year was a straight fight between New Zealand and Italy, but the fact that honours were so evenly shared suggests the Kiwis are starting to really get the hang of this variety – and doing so at half-decent prices, too.
FOOTNOTE: The price limit for the Varietal Classics category is £12 ex-VAT. New World Pinot Grigio/Gris can also be entered in the relevant New World category.
From the Tasting Teams
‘There was quite a mix of styles in the New World flight – of Gris and Grigio. But there was some good subtlety at the upper end. More like from Trentino or Alto Adige.’ Neil Bruce, Studio Alto
‘Our customers look for Pinot Grigio. It’s a good wine by the glass. The pricier wines here were elegant and even subtle – not what you expect. But you can get the cheaper ones on the list for under £30, and you can sell a lot of it for that price.’ Matteo Malquori, Hakkasan Hanway Place
‘Joe Bloggs likes this style of wine. It’s a classic by the glass glugger.’ Charles Van Wyk, FJB Hotels
‘Considering the pricing started at just above house wine level, they showed pretty well. But I’m not sure people ask for Pinot Grigio in the way that they used to.’ Laura Rhys MS, team leader
‘We gave two Golds, one purely on value. [The Fairhall Cliffs] totally over-delivered for the price.’ Richard Bampfield MW, team leader
‘There was none of that maligned neutrality here, all of these Pinot Grigios really had lots of flavour.’ Richard Brooks, Caroline Catering