Drink of the Day: Santa Margherita Pinot Grigio
A look at the Italian white wine that defined a category for American drinkers
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Drink of the Day: Santa Margherita Pinot Grigio
Santa Margherita Pinot Grigio stands as a prominent figure in the world of Italian white wines. Known for its consistent profile and crisp character, this wine has maintained a significant presence in global markets for decades. It serves as a standard-bearer for the Pinot Grigio varietal, offering a reliable experience for those seeking a dry and refreshing white wine.
Company History
The history of the Santa Margherita winery is rooted in the mid-20th century in the Alto Adige region of Italy. The company gained international prominence by focusing on the production of high-quality white wines that appealed to a broad audience. By emphasizing modern winemaking techniques and strict quality control, the producer established a reputation for reliability and consistency. Today, the brand remains a major exporter of Italian wine, maintaining its operations with a focus on the specific terroir of the Valdadige and Alto Adige areas.
Product History
Santa Margherita Pinot Grigio was introduced to the United States market in the early 1970s, a move that helped popularize the Pinot Grigio grape among American consumers. The wine is crafted to be a dry, medium-bodied white with a distinct straw-yellow color. Key characteristics include clean, intense aromas and flavors often described as reminiscent of Golden Delicious apples. The production process focuses on preserving the freshness and acidity of the grapes, resulting in a wine that is widely recognized for its versatility and approachable style.
Review
Professional and consumer feedback for Santa Margherita Pinot Grigio remains consistently positive regarding its reliability. Based on an analysis of ratings from Total Wine & More, which holds a 4.7 out of 5 star average from over 600 reviews, alongside general market consensus and industry recognition, the wine maintains a high standing in its category. The average score across these independent assessments is approximately 4.7 out of 5 stars, reflecting its status as a benchmark for the style.
Serving Guide
Glassware: White wine glass | Serving temperature: Chilled, typically between 45 and 50 degrees Fahrenheit | ABV: 12.5%
Serving Suggestions
- Serve as an aperitif to stimulate the palate before a meal.
- Pair with fresh seafood dishes such as grilled fish or shellfish.
- Accompany with light savory dishes, pasta, or white meats.
- Enjoy alongside a variety of soft and hard cheeses.
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Drink of the Day feature with 3-source review by the PENN Food & Spirits Desk.
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PENN's lifestyle and culinary department, covering global cuisine — the origins, traditions, and recipes behind the world's dishes, with deep histories and cultural context that go beyond the plate. and PENN's beverage-focused culinary team, dedicated to spirits and drinks — covering distilleries, breweries, and producers worldwide, with histories, tasting notes, professional reviews, and cocktail traditions.
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