It’s becoming more common for hybrids developed in the U.S. to gather gold medals from knowledgeable international panels on the West Coast, yet there are few hybrids grown in the Northwest. Early in its history, fruit from Monkey Face Vineyards in the Central Oregon community of Terrebone was a factor. In the past decade, however, Cindy and Roger Grossman have grown the grapes for their winery. Last spring, Southern Oregon winemaker Linda Donovan wowed California judges with this bottling of La Crescent, and then came a Platinum for this winery that showcases eight winter-hardy varieties, including this University of Minnesota cross of St. Pépin and Black Muscat. Fresh-cut peaches, a dried floral bouquet and seabreeze aromas lead to a palate that scoops out yellow grapefruit segments and includes a sense of salinity, petrol, pineapple and lychee. While off-dry, there’s ample acidity to pair with spicy Asian fare. Qualifying award: Sunset International (double gold)
Rating: Platinum • 91 points
Production: 88 cases
Alcohol: 13.2%
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