Wines Worth Exploring: Pinot Bianco from Alto Adige

Pinot Bianco doesn’t always get the spotlight, but it’s a varietal worth seeking out. Often overshadowed by Pinot Grigio, Pinot Bianco (Pinot Blanc in France) has its own character. It’s very versatile and can be more textured, more structured, and complex. Despite not being as well-known as other white varietals, it’s one of northern Italy’s quiet standouts.

• The Region

The bottle highlighted here is from Cantina Terlano, a winery cooperative from Alto Adige in northern Italy that has been dedicated to making high quality DOC wines since its founding in 1893. Steep alpine slopes and cool mountain breezes give the wines freshness while still allowing fruit to ripen fully. The region is known for producing some of the country’s most elegant whites, and Pinot Bianco thrives here.

• The Wine

What I loved about this wine was its balance. Aromas of stone fruit, apple, and pear, with additional flavors of almond, wet stone minerality, fresh acidity, and a touch of creaminess. It’s medium bodied and not as crisp as some of my usual summer go-tos, which made it a perfect choice for a cooler late-summer weekend.

• Food Pairings

Pinot Bianco is wonderfully versatile. Try it with all types of seafood, rich and creamy risotto, or nutty aged cheese which highlight the almond notes in the wine, or enjoy it on its own. And, be sure to add it to your list of aperitifs.

• Why It’s Worth Knowing

For anyone who loves northern Italian whites — like Pinot Grigio or even Chardonnay — Pinot Bianco is a natural next step. It has elegance, character, and a food-friendly style that makes it easy to love. And Sadie may not have tasted it, but she was definitely intrigued.

Interested in more Wines Worth Exploring? Discover Barbaresco from Piedmont, Italy.