THE WINE:
The perfect trio of Chardonnay, Riesling and Pinot Gris, create this off-dry, medium bodied white wine. Fresh aromas of orchard fruit and delicate honey rise from the glass, while the palate sings with lively pineapple, lemon and stone fruit flavours combined with hints of apple, pear and honey. The zesty acidity in this wine balances the slight sweetness perfectly.
THE REGION:
Just east of San Francisco Bay rests Lodi California. Basking in a Mediterranean climate, Chardonnay grapes grow plump during the warm days and cool nights, maintaining refreshing acidity. Pinot Gris from Oregon’s Willamette Valley are protected from over-ripening by the cool nights while the valley offers mild, warm and sunny days for the grapes. The most northern of the three, Yakima Valley in Washington, is home to the oldest agricultural region in the state. Here, Riesling, one of the state’s most widely planted varieties, benefits from limited rainfall in the growing season creating crisp, fruit forward wines.
THE FOOD:
Pair this blend with lighter meats and fresh vegetables, perhaps linguini and grilled vegetables with shrimp in a light cream sauce. Sushi and lightly spiced Asian dishes and cheeses such as Brie, Camembert, and Gruyère complement this wine beautifully.
