SANTA MARGHERITA PINOT GRIGIO 2012
Alto Adige region of Northern Italy
$23.99
For many years Santa Margherita Pinot Grigio has been the standard for a certain style of Pinot Grigio: a dry (fruity, but not sweet), light, crisp white wine, with hints of apple, pear, and citrus fruits; this style is produced primarily in Italy and California. Examples of this style with which you may be familiar: Pighin, Kris, Ecco Domani. Stainless steel vats (no oak) help to maintain its lightness and freshness. A different style is exhibited by Oregon Pinot Gris. Both Grigio and Gris refer to the same grape. It's a matter of different styles, not different grapes. A to Z, Erath, King Estate, are examples of Oregon Pinot Gris. Oak vats impart a fuller body, a creamy feel, with a hint of butter. The best way to tell the difference is to taste a Grigio and a Gris side by side. I enjoy both styles, and the particular style is determined by the food I am eating. A tossed salad on a hot day cries out for a Grigio; a quiche needs a Gris. But, your own taste buds, as always, are the final judge in determining what wine goes with what food.