Elk Cove Vineyards 2012 Pinot Gris, Willamette Valley, $19
Second-generation winemaker Adam Campbell crafts simply stunning Pinot Gris. This might be as good as it gets year in and year out. In fact, we have a difficult time remembering the last time we didn’t give it our top rating in a blind judging — and on Nov. 7 it was voted Best White at the inaugural Great Northwest Invitational Wine Competition. This opens with aromas of pear, Golden Delicious apple, lime and clove. On the palate, it is loaded with flavors of ripe orchard fruit, especially pear and apple. The round midpalate is beautifully balanced with bright, right-on acidity. The finish is simply sublime. Pair this with seared scallops, salmon, halibut, crab, clams … well, you get the gist.
Rating: Outstanding!
Pairings: A versatile white, this Pinot Gris should work with most dishes on your table, especially creamed onions, green bean casserole and dark turkey meat.
Production: 15,500 cases
Alcohol: 13%
Leave a Reply