Varietal:Â 76% Pinot Grigio; 24% Aromatic White Varieties
Region:Â California – USA
Cost:Â $8 (SRP)
Winemaker’s Notes:Â Delightful aromas of lime and fresh citrus make our 2011 Pinot Grigio a delicious choice to enjoy on a summer afternoon on its own or with a wide variety of dishes. Originating on Italy’s northern coast, locals have long paired Pinot Grigio with seafood and other light, fresh foods. Our smooth but crisp Pinot Grigio nicely complements mahi mahi tacos with avocado, fresh summer salads or grilled chicken skewers. Best served well chilled.
My Review:Â Pinot Grigio is one of those grapes that I used to drink more of but in recent years have trended away from as my tastes have evolved. That being said, it’s usually one that you can find a great value on, something that’s of extra importance this time of year as being able to buy wine in larger quantities for cook-outs, parties, and weddings must be balanced with putting out a passable wine. With that in mind, when I was offered a sample of the 2011 Woodbridge Pinot Grigio I decided to give it a try as we’re entering into the miserably hot portion of the year here in Virginia and anything that’s crisp and will help cut the heat and humidity is worth looking into.
On the nose of the wine I initially got very little, but as it warmed ever so slightly in my hand I got more aromas of citrus and a hint of peach. In the mouth I had a similar problem at first with the wine, not picking up much in the way of distinct flavors beyond a generic citrus note, but again as the wine opened up a bit from sitting in the glass and bottle I was able to pick out lime most notably.
Paired with a dinner of pasta, a cream sauce, and some grilled chicken sliced up and tossed together, the wine was adequate. The crispness of the wine did a nice job of countering the creaminess of the meal, and if it didn’t add a great deal to the food, it certainly didn’t take anything away from it.
I’m not going to sit here and write that this is some amazing wine that will change your views on life, the universe, and everything, including Pinot Grigio and white wine in general. That being said, this is the perfect wine for this time of year – a good price point and possessing flavors that will appeal to a wide range of tastes and pair with a wide range of meals. Also, it’s super easy to find in your local store, making it easy to get your hands on a bottle for any occasion no matter where you are.
