Pinot Blanc (Pinot Bianco / Weissburgunder)

1. Overview

Pinot Blanc is a white mutation of Pinot Noir.
It is widely grown in Alto Adige, Alsace, Germany, and Austria, and is known for clean, subtle, mineral-driven wines.

2. Key Characteristics

• Neutral, delicate aromas (apple, pear, almond).
• Medium acidity; medium body.
• Best in cooler climates or high-altitude vineyards.
• Can be made in stainless steel, with lees ageing, or in light oak.
• Also used in sparkling wines (Crémant, Italian Metodo Classico).

3. Important Regions

Alto Adige (Italy)

• Crisp, precise, mineral Pinot Bianco.
• Some of the best examples come from high-altitude slopes.

Alsace (France)

• Often blended with Auxerrois; soft, round, lightly creamy whites.

Germany (Weissburgunder)

• Increasingly high quality, from fresh styles to rich, oak-aged “Reserve”.

Austria

• Mineral, balanced wines; sometimes lightly oak-influenced.

4. Winemaking Styles

• Stainless steel: fresh, pure fruit.
• Lees ageing: adds creaminess and texture.
• Neutral oak: subtle savoury depth.
• Sparkling wine base: used for Crémant and Italian metodo classico.

5. Summary

Pinot Blanc makes clean, subtle, balanced wines that show the character of their vineyard sites.
It is versatile, widely planted, and capable of high quality in cool or high-altitude regions.