2011 J Vineyards Pinot Gris, California
Often, when you see “California” as the appellation on a wine label, it hints at sub-par sourcing of the grapes. Not so here, as Clarksburg, Monterey, Russian River Valley and Napa are all prime sources for Pinot Gris — and, as with previous vintages, this wine delivers. Light straw color. The perfumed aromas evoke a summer fruit salad (banana, peach, crisp apple and cantaloupe). The viscous, fleshy cantaloupe comes to the fore in the mouth, showing a rosewater unctuousness. The wine also sweetens up in the mouth, as if a drizzle of honey had been poured over the fruit. It’s all held together with a nice thread of citric acidity. A versatile white that can hold its own with many foods. Try it with a spicy Thai mango salad.
MSRP: $15 (June 2012)
Wine Lines rating: 90
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RATINGS EXPLAINED
80-84 points: A sound wine that shows varietal character. 85-89 points: An unflawed wine that shows some depth and concentration of aromas and flavors. 90-93 points: A Gold Medal wine of its type, showing balance, depth and secondary flavor profiles found in the best of its style. 94-97 points: Hedonistic pleasure in a glass. Remarkable balance, aromas, flavor and length. A pure expression of the varietal or type. 98-100 points: A wine for the ages! Will drink sublimely for decades. Learn more here!
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