Wine of the Week

Pike Road 2022 Pinot Gris

There's Pinot Grigio and Pinot Gris. The same grape from two quite different places. If Pinot Grigio conjures up notions of overpriced, underfruited, ubiquitous Italian plonk for you, as it does for me, don't give up on the grape. Oregon Pinot Gris is a different creature entirely. If you have never had a truly brilliant example, here's the one to try. Pike Road is the sister winery to Elk Cove. The fresh, ripe, lively fruit flavors in this new release showcase fresh pears in particular, with further highlights of orange and grapefruit. The natural acidity adds a sleek 'cut' to the palate, accented with a hint of wet stone. This wine has an extra 'it' factor that ramps up its intensity and sheer deliciousness. It's a fruit-packed white wine that is perfect for sipping through summer and fall, right on up to that Thanksgiving dinner.

5000 cases; 13%; $17 (Willamette Valley) 93/100

https://www.pikeroadwines.com/product/2022-Pinot-Gris