Pinot Grigio continues to prove why it remains a staple on global wine lists, but the latest results from the London Wine Competition reveal a category that is far from predictable. Today’s top-performing wines balance freshness with texture, and accessibility with character—whether they come from New Zealand, Australia, or Italy. For buyers and beverage directors, this list offers a snapshot of Pinot Grigio’s commercial sweet spot: bright acidity, clean fruit profiles, and versatile food-pairing potential, with a few stylistic surprises along the way.

1. Specially Selected Freeman's Bay Gisborne Pinot Gris – 93 Points (Gold Medal)

A benchmark expression from New Zealand, this unoaked Pinot Gris delivers subtle aromatics with a focus on freshness and drinkability. Bright acidity carries the wine through a medium-bodied palate, while a slight green finish adds structure. Its broad appeal and clean profile make it a reliable by-the-glass option for high-volume on-trade settings.

2. Orizon – 93 Points (Gold Medal)

An unconventional standout from Italy, this non-alcoholic Pinot Grigio offers pale straw hues with delicate floral and green apple aromas. Subtle yeasty notes and fine, integrated bubbles give it an almost sparkling character, while balanced acidity and a lively finish position it as a sophisticated aperitif alternative in the growing no-alcohol segment.

3. Red Hut Pinot Gris – 90 Points (Gold Medal)

This vibrant New Zealand Pinot Gris opens with green apple and grassy aromatics, leading into a full-bodied palate that remains fresh and sapid. Citrus and floral nuances add complexity, while its crisp, modest finish makes it particularly suitable for seafood and light, seasonal menus.

4. Taylors Taylor Made Pinot Gris – 90 Points (Gold Medal)

From Australia, this wine leans into a more textural style, combining floral, citrus, and stone fruit aromas with a mineral backbone. The palate is balanced and full-bodied, supported by a silky texture and a medium-length finish that enhances its versatility across both casual and premium dining occasions.

5. Tempo Lungo – 89 Points (Silver Medal)

An off-dry expression from Italy, this wine showcases fresh floral and green apple notes with lively citrus acidity. Its crisp texture and clean, mineral finish make it a flexible option for operators seeking an approachable yet characterful Pinot Grigio with a hint of sweetness.

6. PepperGreen Estate 2023 Pinot Gris Single Vineyard – 88 Points (Silver Medal)

This single-vineyard bottling from Australia highlights a more structured, mineral-driven style. Vibrant citrus notes are complemented by fresh herbs and stone fruit, while an oily texture adds depth. The finish is concise yet persistent, appealing to consumers seeking complexity without heaviness.

8. Pete's Pure Pinot Grigio – 88 Points (Silver Medal)

A zesty, mineral-driven example from Australia, this wine delivers green pear, apple, lemon, and lime notes with high acidity and a clean floral bouquet. Its oily yet crisp finish enhances mouthfeel, making it a strong contender for both retail shelves and casual dining lists.

9. Annelise Pinot Grigio – 88 Points (Silver Medal)

This crisp and dry Australia offering focuses on citrus and floral aromatics supported by vibrant acidity. Mineral notes add structure, while the succinct, refreshing finish makes it an easy, crowd-pleasing option for by-the-glass programs.

10. Two Towns Adelaide Hills Pinot Gris – 88 Points (Silver Medal)

Rounding out the list, this Australia Pinot Gris presents lively citrus and stone fruit aromas on a medium-bodied frame. Balanced acidity keeps the palate fresh, while a crisp, short finish ensures immediate drinkability—ideal for fast-paced hospitality environments.

Consistent performance across scale and vintages, along with clarity in style is what stands out across these winners. Whether leaning toward bright and zesty or textured and mineral, Pinot Grigio is increasingly being shaped by drinkability and precision—qualities that resonate strongly with both buyers and modern consumers.