Pinot Blanc

Buy Pinot Blanc – elegant white wine with Burgundian finesse

Pinot Blanc is one of the finest white wine varieties in Europe and impresses with its versatility, freshness and elegant aromas. This grape variety, also known as Weissburgunder in Switzerland, comes from a natural mutation of Pinot Noir and is part of the renowned Pinot family, which also includes Pinot Gris.

Pinot Blanc produces wines that impress with their clear structure, pleasant acidity and delicate fruit notes. Particularly in Switzerland – for example in the AOC Graubünden – wines with a pronounced terroir character are produced, which are characterised by their complexity and ageing potential.

The origin of the Pinot Blanc grape variety

The origins of Pinot Blanc can be traced back to the 14th century. The variety is a genetic variant of Pinot Noir and shares many ampelographic characteristics with it, such as the shape of the leaves, the structure of the bunches and the preferred sites.

While Pinot Noir is known for its deep red wines, Pinot Blanc produces a light, straw-yellow colour, often with greenish highlights, depending on the vintage and how it is aged. Its fine, balanced acidity and subtle aromas of pear, apple and sometimes white peach make it an ideal companion for food or as an aperitif wine.

Pinot Blanc in Switzerland – terroir with identity

Pinot Blanc plays an important role in Swiss viticulture, particularly in the AOC Graubünden region, where it develops its full potential under the cool climatic conditions. The mineral soils, precise vineyard management and controlled harvesting result in wines that impress with their elegance, purity and complexity.

Compared to internationally renowned Pinot Blanc regions such as Alsace or South Tyrol, Switzerland produces a very different style: finer, more minerally, with a touch of Alpine freshness.

Aromas and character in the glass

Pinot Blanc is known for its delicate yet distinct aromas. The nose is often characterised by fruity notes such as green apple, pear, citrus and white stone fruit. There are also floral hints and occasionally a touch of almond or hay.

On the palate, the wine has a clear, straightforward structure. The acidity is fresh but not aggressive, making the wine very pleasant to drink – both young and with a little maturity. A Pinot Blanc can gain in complexity through storage, but always retains a certain lightness.

Culinary harmony – Pinot Blanc and food

Pinot Blanc is an ideal companion to a wide range of dishes, as its restrained aromas allow it to complement the food without overpowering it. It goes particularly well with white meats such as veal or chicken, with fish dishes – whether fried, poached or steamed – and with vegetable dishes featuring asparagus, fennel or mushrooms.

This white wine also harmonises wonderfully with goat's cheese, fresh ricotta or creamy fresh cheeses. It shows its full class in combination with truffles, foie gras or light pasta dishes with a butter or cream sauce.

As an aperitif wine, Pinot Blanc impresses with its freshness, clear fruit and ability to stimulate the palate without dominating.

Pinot Blanc in the cellar – versatility

Depending on the winemaker's philosophy, Pinot Blanc can be aged in stainless steel tanks, large wooden barrels or barriques. Stainless steel brings freshness and clarity to the wine, while ageing in wooden barrels gives the wine more volume, depth and storage life.

The ageing process also influences the aromas: while the steel tank emphasises the fruit, the use of wood can add aromas of vanilla, toast or nuts – without losing the typical Pinot Blanc lightness.

Vintage and storage life

A good Pinot Blanc is very accessible even when young, but depending on how it is aged, it can also be stored for several years. With a little maturity, different notes emerge – from fresh fruit to honey, nuts and dried apples.

The best vintages produce wines that gain in depth and develop their bouquet further with each passing year. For lovers of aged white wines, it is worth reserving a few bottles in the shopping basket for the next few years.

Price and value – Pinot Blanc as a discovery

Compared to other Burgundy varieties, Pinot Blanc offers an attractive price-performance ratio. Many wines in this category show remarkable quality and diversity without reaching the price levels of the great Chardonnay or Pinot Gris.

Whether as a table wine for lunch or as an upscale companion for a festive dinner – Pinot Blanc impresses with its quality, complexity and stylistic range.

Why buy Pinot Blanc?

If you are looking for an elegant, fresh and versatile white wine, Pinot Blanc is an excellent choice. As part of the larger Pinot family of grapes, it offers Burgundian finesse without being overpowering. Whether from Switzerland or other regions, a well-made Pinot Blanc is always a worthwhile discovery.

Frequently asked questions (FAQ)

What is the difference between Pinot Blanc and Pinot Gris?

Pinot Blanc is a mutation of Pinot Noir with light-coloured skins, while Pinot Gris has reddish-grey skins. Pinot Blanc is often fresher and lighter in character.

Is Pinot Blanc a dry wine?

Yes, Pinot Blanc is usually vinified dry, although some winemakers also produce semi-dry varieties.

What dishes does Pinot Blanc go well with?

It goes well with white meat, fish, vegetable dishes, goat's cheese and also with truffles or cream sauces.

Where does the Pinot Blanc grape variety come from?

The grape variety originates from Burgundy and is a natural mutation of Pinot Noir.

How long can Pinot Blanc be stored?

Pinot Blanc is very accessible when young, but depending on the type and quality of the wine, it can also be stored for several years. Over time, it develops more complex flavours.

A Pinot Blanc brings clear structure, delicate fruit and a pleasantly lively character to the glass – a white wine worth discovering.