Importer marquee selection. Locally distributed is DMV distribution.
Sokol Blosser Pinot Gris 2022
Willamette Valley, Oregon, $20
This was a whiplash vintage, with the first growing-season frost the Sokol Blosser family has experienced in the 50 years they’ve been growing grapes in the Willamette Valley, and the warmest October in Oregon history, ripening the grapes. Pinot Gris from Oregon has a unique flavor that lies somewhere between the weight of Alsace and the light freshness of Italian Pinot Grigio. Think flavors of Asian pear, crisp guava, and floral jasmine. While Pinot Gris has supplanted Chardonnay as the beloved white grape for Oregon winemakers, we salute Sokol Blosser for keeping it alive. Certified B Corp. Alcohol content: 13%. BW: 620 grams (average).
Locally distributed is RNDC.
Amador County, California, $25
This is your chance to experience a traditional style of Zinfandel, made from old bush-grown vines on the red mountain slopes of Amador County. Jane O’Riordan and Bill Easton specialize in the deep red wines of Easton Label’s Zinfandel and Barbera, as well as the Rhône varietals of Terre Rouge. Their style combines depth and power in a precise balance. This 2016 exhibits bright cranberry and raspberry flavors with a hint of sage herbs on the edge, making the wine age well. This is a delicious introduction to Amador His County His Gin, and may make you want to splurge on single-vineyard wines. Alcohol content: 14.5%. BW: 560 grams (average).
Locally distributed is Sarveto imported goods.
Prices are approximate.Check availability wine.com, winesearcher.com Also check out the websites and social media feeds of wineries, importers, distributors, and your favorite local wine stores. You can also ask your local retailer to order wine from their listed distributors.Have a wine question for Dave McIntyre? Send it to [email protected].
★ Good: The wine delivers what it promises at a fair price. When you say Chardonnay, it tastes like Chardonnay.
★★ Excellent: A wine with character and even more interest. Your first sip may raise your eyebrows.
★★★ Extraordinary wine: An exciting wine that stands out from other wines in its class. Fist pumps and banging on the table are also good.
★★★★ Sublime: Otherworldly. You might have thought, “So this is what they were talking about.”
