July 09 - Pinot Blanc and Sushi

Sushi

I have mentioned that Pinot Noir is one of the most mutation prone grapes around. One genetic mutation away is Pinot Gris, or Grigio in Italy. Two mutations away is Pinot Blanc. This grape is grown throughout Europe and produces a full-bodied, acidic and somewhat neutral white wine. The leaf structure and the grape clusters so resemble Chardonnay that they are often  unknowingly planted side by side. We often feel obliged to try and follow the wine and food pairing rules of Europe. But the neutrality of Pinot Blanc is a great vehicle for uncharted waters, say sushi. In Japanese cuisine, sushi is the rice that can be topped with fish or vegetables. On its own, sliced raw fish is called sashimi and is distinct from sushi. Modern sushi was invented at the beginning of the 18th Century and was perhaps the world's first "to go" food.