Dr. David Muhleman

The-Wine-Educator    WINE & SPIRITS EDUCATION AND CONSULTING SERVICES FOR THE CONSUMER AND THE PROFESSIONAL

Pinot Grigio - Summer in the City

In the ‘60s there was a song about “summer in the city.” But when I think of summer in Tucson, my mind focuses on cool refreshing wine; and for many people that means Pinot Gris (or Pinot Grigio).

Pinot Gris and Pinot Grigio are the same grape, but I believe they are made in two different styles. (My opinion) is that Pinot Grigio goes slighty better with food, whereas Pinot Gris’ goes slighty better without food.

So whether you are having a cool sip after a hot drive home from work, or a crisp, clean, glass to compliment your dinner salad, or cold soup, here are some of my favorites.

Elk Cove Pinot Gris, 2005, Oregon, $15.59 

Shows continuity of varietal expression with beautiful white flowers, such as honeysuckle, hinting of springtime freshness, while lending notes of crispness with citrus and grapefruit. Yet there is richness in the mouthfeel to give a full and satisfying balanced finish. Drink this lovely white wine as an aperitif or with a variety of food pairings from salmon and main-course salads to Asian and Thai influenced dishes.

Alois Lageder Pinot Grigio, 2004, Italy, $15.59

Brilliant straw yellow with a green shimmer. Quite pronounced and expressive aroma with flowery and somewhat spicy notes. Rich flavored in the mouth, with a slight smokiness at the back and a good, fresh finish.

McManis Pinot Gris, 2004, California, $10.39 

The color is of light straw. Aromas of grapefruit and pear fuse with a subtle flintiness and hints of green grass. The wine is medium bodied - yet crisp and refreshing. Citrus and mineral flavors found on the pallet lead to a clean, short finish.