Writer: Zac Brown

“Ramato” Pinot Gris gets its name from the copper color of the wine that comes from extended skin contact with rose-gray colored grapes prior to fermentation. This style of wine was made popular in northeastern Italy more than a century ago due to the more intense aromatics, flavors, and body that comes from the method. The same process can be used at home to add more character to this often nondescript grape variety.

Hybrid grapes are bred to combat growing conditions vinifera grapes have trouble with, including cold temperatures, diseases, and more. Hybrids also have their own nuances when it comes to turning them into wine. Learn how to get the most from white hybrid grapes.

Making red wine from hybrid grapes can sometimes be a challenge, but the rewards are also tremendous. The first steps? Forget what you know about making wine from vinifera grapes and embrace the unique characteristics hybrids often have.