The short answer
Riesling has a little more acidity than Pinot Grigio. Riesling has a little more sweetness than Pinot Grigio.
Riesling originates in Germany and is most associated with Mosel, Rheingau, Alsace. Pinot Grigio originates in Burgundy, France, most associated with Alto Adige, Friuli-Venezia Giulia, Veneto.
Structure, side by side
Body
Tannin
Acidity
Sweetness
A 1-5 editorial judgement of the typical expression, not a measurement. Individual bottles vary more than the grape does — a warm-vintage example of the leaner wine can outweigh a cool-vintage example of the fuller one.
Riesling
White · Germany
Eat it with
- Spicy Asian food
- Pork
- Duck
- Sushi
- Cheese
Look for it from
- Mosel
- Rheingau
- Alsace
- Clare Valley
Pinot Grigio
White · Burgundy, France
Eat it with
- Grilled white fish
- Seafood risotto
- Prosciutto and melon
- Light salads
- Fresh goat cheese
Look for it from
- Alto Adige
- Friuli-Venezia Giulia
- Veneto
- Alsace
Questions people ask
What is the difference between Riesling and Pinot Grigio?
Riesling has a little more acidity than Pinot Grigio; Riesling has a little more sweetness than Pinot Grigio. Riesling comes from Germany; Pinot Grigio from Burgundy, France.
Which is drier, Riesling or Pinot Grigio?
Pinot Grigio is typically the drier of the two, but both are made across a range of styles — check the producer rather than the grape.
Which goes better with food?
Neither in general, both in particular. Riesling is a classic match for spicy asian food, pork, duck. Pinot Grigio suits grilled white fish, seafood risotto, prosciutto and melon.
If I like Riesling, will I like Pinot Grigio?
Both light and high in acid, and frequently chosen for the same occasions. Riesling is aromatic and can carry residual sugar; Pinot Grigio is neutral by design, which is exactly why some people reach for it.
Taste them side by side.
Pour both, then work through how to taste wine with our free tasting sheet. Or scan both labels and SomeWine walks you through a structured tasting for each.