Pinot Gris
The success of Pinot Grigios from the Italy and Pinot Gris from France are now rapidly translating themselves nicely into the coolest locations of Sonoma County. This “grey Pinot” grape—the berries actually have a brownish pink to black appearance—makes a white wine that is light to medium bodied, dry and very refreshing on a summer day.
Most of the Pinot Gris in Sonoma County is presently planted in the Russian River Valley, which makes good sense, because the best of the variety worldwide are planted in apple country. The Russian River Valley is world-famous for its Gravenstein apples, for eating, for juice and for applesauce. This cool appellation allows the grape to retain sufficient acidity to frame the fruit.
Often fermented in stainless steel, most Pinot Gris wines are bottled soon thereafter, usually bypassing any time in oak. The resulting wines have a refreshing acidity and fruit character that leads to all sorts of fascinating food match-ups. White grapefruit and lime are common fruit descriptors, but you’re also likely to discover floral components like honeysuckle and jasmine.
The whole of the “Pacific Rim fusion” cuisine is perfectly attuned to the brisk, “let’s get going” personality of Pinot Gris.” If you like the spiciness of Asian-inspired foods, from sushi and Thai-spiced dishes, this is exactly the wine you’ll want to get to know. It is also a sensational Sunday brunch or warm afternoon sipping wine.
