This pink skinned variety is a mutation of pinot noir that is famously grown in the French region of Alsace and northern Italian district of Friuli. It is grown throughout New Zealand and Australia, with particularly fine examples emerging from cool climate regions such as Tasmania. While varietal characters include pear, apple and straw/hay, wines can be made in different styles at opposite ends of the spectrum. Grapes harvested early in the Italianate style make light bodied, crunchy wines reminiscent of nashi pear. Grapes that are allowed to ripen fully in the French mode produce rich gris styles with subtle perfume, spice and texture.