Soave and Pinot Grigio are two of the most popular white wines in the world. Both are made from the same grape variety, but they come from different regions and have distinct flavour profiles. In this article, we will compare Soave and Pinot Grigio side-by-side to help you understand the differences between these two wines.
The History of Soave Wine
Soave is a white wine that comes from the Veneto region in northeastern Italy. The name “Soave” comes from the town of Soave, which is located in the heart of the Soave wine-producing region. Soave has been produced in this region for over a thousand years, and it was once considered one of the best wines in the world. In the Middle Ages, Soave was a favourite wine of the Venetian Republic, and it was often served at the tables of the wealthy and powerful.
The history of Soave wine is closely tied to the history of the Veneto region. The region has a rich winemaking tradition that dates back to ancient times, and it is home to some of Italy’s most famous wines, including Valpolicella, Amarone, and Bardolino. The Soave region is located on the hills between Verona and Vicenza, where the grapes can benefit from the ideal climatic conditions and soil.
The Production of Soave Wine
Soave wine is made from the Garganega grape variety, which is native to the Veneto region. The grape is known for its high acidity and delicate aromas, which make it well-suited for producing white wines. The grapes are hand-picked, and the wine is made using a traditional method called “appassimento,” which involves drying the grapes before pressing them. This process concentrates the flavours of the grapes and gives Soave its characteristic nutty and floral aromas.
Soave wine is typically fermented in stainless steel tanks at a low temperature to preserve its delicate aromas. The wine is then aged for at least six months before it is released to the market. Soave wines are generally light-bodied and have a crisp acidity, which makes them a perfect pairing for seafood, pasta dishes, and white meats.
5 most popular types of Soave wines
1. Soave Classico: This is the most traditional and well-known type of Soave wine, made from the Garganega grape. It is characterized by its dry, crisp, and mineral-rich flavour profile.
2. Soave Superiore: This is a higher-quality version of Soave Classico, made from grapes grown in the best vineyards and aged for a longer period of time. It has a more complex and nuanced flavour profile than Soave Classico.
3. Soave Recioto: This is a sweet, dessert-style wine made from partially dried grapes. It has a rich, honeyed flavour and is often paired with desserts or cheese.
4. Soave Bardolino: This is a red wine made from the Bardolino grape, which is grown in the Veneto region of Italy. It is a light-bodied wine with a bright, fruity flavour and is often enjoyed with pasta dishes or grilled meats.
5. Soave Spumante: This is a sparkling wine made in the traditional method and often made from the Garganega grape. It is a dry, light-bodied wine with a crisp, refreshing taste and is perfect for celebrations or special occasions.
The History of Pinot Grigio
Pinot Grigio is a white wine that comes from the northeastern region of Italy known as Friuli-Venezia Giulia. The grape variety used to make Pinot Grigio is known as Pinot Gris, which is the same grape variety used to make the French wine called Pinot Gris. The history of Pinot Grigio is relatively recent compared to Soave, as it was first produced in the region in the mid-20th century.
Pinot Grigio quickly became popular among wine enthusiasts and is now the most widely planted white grape variety in Italy. The region is also home to other famous wines, such as Friulano and Ribolla Gialla.
The Production of Pinot Grigio
Pinot Grigio is made from the Pinot Gris grape variety, which is known for its high acidity and delicate aromas. The grapes are hand-picked and fermented in stainless steel tanks at a low temperature to preserve their delicate aromas. The wine is then aged for a few months before it is released to the market.
5 most popular types of Pinot Grigio
1. Italian Pinot Grigio: This is the most well-known and widely produced type of Pinot Grigio. It is known for its crisp acidity, light body and flavours of green apple and citrus.
2. French Pinot Gris: Often considered a more complex and nuanced version of Pinot Grigio, French Pinot Gris is known for its rich, full-bodied flavour profile with notes of honey, apricot and spice.
3. California Pinot Grigio: The Californian version of Pinot Grigio tends to be more full-bodied and fruit-forward than its Italian and French counterparts, with flavours of tropical fruit and melon.
4. Oregon Pinot Gris: The Pinot Gris from Oregon is known for its rich, complex flavours and aromas, with notes of pear, apple and spice.
5. New Zealand Pinot Gris: This Pinot Gris is known for its bright acidity and flavours of citrus, apple and peach. It is often considered a more floral and aromatic wine than the other types of Pinot Grigio.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Soave and Pinot Grigio are both white wines that offer unique and distinct flavours. Soave, hailing from the Veneto region of Italy, is known for its crisp acidity, minerality, and subtle almond notes. Pinot Grigio, on the other hand, originates from the northeastern regions of Italy and is characterized by its light body and delicate fruit flavours, such as pear and apple.
