A little reason to celebrate
National Pinot Grigio Day
Drink ยท May 17
A day for pinot grigio, the light, crisp white wine made from the pinot gris grape, and the simple pleasure of a chilled glass.
National Pinot Grigio Day falls on Monday, May 17, 2027. That is 202 days away.
Pinot grigio is a white wine made from the pinot gris grape. The grape's skin is a dusky grayish pink, which is where the name comes from, since gris and grigio both mean gray. Grigio is the Italian name, and many of the best-known bottles come from northern Italy.
In the glass it usually looks pale straw yellow. The style most people know is light and dry, with crisp acidity and gentle flavors that often get described as lemon, green apple or pear. It is not a wine that asks for much attention, which is part of its appeal. It sits quietly next to a plate of food and lets the food talk.
That makes it an easy match for simple dishes. Grilled fish, shellfish, salads, soft cheeses and pasta with a light sauce all tend to get along with it. It is usually served chilled, and a bottle that has spent some time in the refrigerator is close to the right temperature.
The same grape goes by pinot gris in France, especially in Alsace, and in Oregon. Wines labeled that way are often a bit richer and rounder, so two bottles from the same grape can taste noticeably different. Setting one of each side by side is an easy way to notice how much winemaking style shapes the result.
Ways to celebrate
- Chill a bottle and pour a glass with a simple seafood dinner.
- Compare a pinot grigio and a pinot gris side by side.
- Try describing the flavors you notice before reading the label.
- Pair a glass with soft cheese and sliced pears.
- Look for a pinot grigio from a region you have not tried.
Dates
| Year | Date |
|---|---|
| 2026 | Sunday, May 17 |
| 2027 | Monday, May 17 |
| 2028 | Wednesday, May 17 |
| 2029 | Thursday, May 17 |
| 2030 | Friday, May 17 |
Also on May 17
Categories: Drink days