The “Other” Wine from Oregon
Its wines like this that make me scratch my head and wonder why so many American white wine drinkers opt to consume trillions of gallons of so-so imported Pinot Gris (i.e., Pinot Grigio) and overlook the magically delicious domestic offerings provided by several Oregon producers for around the same price or less.
Although Oregon is most recognized as a producer of high quality Pinot Noir, I was recently reminded of how good Oregon’s “other” wine truly is when I had the pleasure of sampling Willamette Valley Vineyards, 2008 Pinot Gris. (Retails <$15)
Willamette Valley Vineyards is best known for well…Pinot Noir. But, I soon found out that they also make a pretty spiffy Pinot Gris that’s also deserving of some attention.
This white wine was like “two peas in a pod” when I paired it up with a slab of pan-seared salmon over an arugula salad. I have to admit though, if you prefer your white wines blazin’ with acidity, this white doesn’t quite get to that high altitude on its own. It’s definitely a wine that requires food like say – poached salmon, pan-seared salmon, broiled salmon, smoked salmon, breakfast, lunch and dinner salmon… or any other “Fresh Catch of the Day” for it to shine and show you what it’s all about.
If you don’t crave over-the-top acidity, but love multi-dimensional layers of tropical flavors then this Pinot Gris is a great alternative to some of the Pinot Grigio you may have been drinking.
3 Stars out of 4.
Posted in 3-Star, Reviews-Wine | 
Tags: 2008, 3-Star, Oregon, Pinot Gris, White Wine, Willamette Valley Vineyards, Wine Reviews, Wines under $20
3 Responses to “The “Other” Wine from Oregon”
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Mmmm that looks like a delicious combination. I went to a few wineries in Oregon and enjoyed Gewurtztraminer there, but other than that have not tried many Oregon whites.
It really is a great "salmon wine" Meghan. Definitely give it a shot. I have not made the journey to Oregon yet, unfortunately. And I don't believe that I've ever tried a Gewürztraminer from Oregon. Are there any that you would recommend?
[...] Oregon Pinot Gris. They’re usually very clean, crisp, and possess racy citrus qualities that pair perfectly with these (salmon) fish tacos – and Oregon definitely knows a thing or two about Salmon. Consider trying King Estate Pinot Gris or Willamette Valley Vineyards Pinot Gris. [...]