Bethel Heights Pinot Gris 2006
Pinot Gris/Grigio
from Willamette Valley, Oregon
winemaker's notes:
This Pinot Gris comes from several
vineyard sites. Bethel Heights, Elton, and Lewman are all in the Eola
Hills region of the Willamette Valley. Del Rio is in the Rogue Valley
of Southern Oregon. The Willamette Valley provides brightness and
purity of fruit; Southern Oregon fruit gives a more lush, often floral
note to the final wine. The wine was fermented cold, exclusively in
stainless steel, and finished without malolactic fermentation.
Rich aromas of peach, apple, tropical fruits,
hints of orange zest. On the palate citrus gives way to stone fruits,
and firm acidity provides balance and a crisp, dry finish.
Pinot Gris is
an excellent choice for almost any first
course you may choose. Its bright, crisp
flavors are an inviting palate cleanser,
pairing well with a light soup, or lightly
spiced Thai dishes featuring shrimp or
pork. It is excellent with richer fish, such as
salmon and halibut balanced by the acidity
yet ripe flavors of the wine. Pinot Gris is
versatile with pork, chicken, and even duck
seared and served with greens as a lighter
salad entrée.
