Pinot Blanc
Pinot Blanc is a white grape variety that is part of the Pinot family. It is grown in many regions around the world, but is most notable in Alsace, France, and the Alto Adige region of Italy. It is considered a less glamorous member of the Pinot family, but is known for its medium to full-bodied style of wine with good acidity, and responds well to oak maturation. Pinot Blanc's varietal characters include apple and almond, and sometimes a touch of smokiness. It is relatively fruitful variety, but is vulnerable to mildew diseases. It is also grown in Burgundy, where it is thought to have originated, as well as in Germany, Austria, the United States, Canada, Argentina and Uruguay. In these countries it is used to make sparkling wines and ice wines.