Synopsis, Our Opinion: A disappointing Pinot Gris.
Producer/Winery: Kim Crawford Wines; Huapal, New Zealand.
Grape Variety: Pinot Gris.
Geographic Appellation: Marlborough, New Zealand.
Vintage: 2016
Price: $14.25
Purchased From: Bistro B; Kernersville, North Carolina.
Paired With: Salad of mixed baby greens, romaine and kale, dressed with artisan oil and vinegar.
Tasting:
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He said: Chilled before drinking. Clear wheat straw color. Strong citrus and grapefruit aroma. Smooth, fruity and off dry, full of Florida grapefruit flavor that ends with pronounced bitterness and a medium-length finish. WOW if I was blind tasting this I would have instantly said “New Zealand Sauvignon Blanc”, never Pinot Grigio/Pinot Gris. It was OK with the salad, but totally lacking in the crisp acidity I expected. Under $15, but a disappointing Pinot Gris.
She said: Clear, pale yellow color, thin irregular spaced rapid moving legs. When I have a Pinot Gris I expect fresh crispness and this is not what this one has to
offer. That is not necessarily bad but it is a warning. The aroma and taste feature strong grapefruit scents and flavors accompanied by an almost creamy off dry mouth-feel and medium body. The finish was long but it leans toward tartness rather than flavor. If you are okay with a not crisp Pinot Gris with plenty of grapefruit flavor this is the one to consider. At $14.25 it’s drinkable and is a good choice for vegetables, grilled chicken or anything else that pairs well with a New Zealand Sauvignon Blanc, which this one resembles.
Alcohol Content: 13.5%
Closure: Screw cap.
UPC Code: 6 89352 00990 1
Imported by: Constellation Imports’ Rutherford, California.
Photo from Kim Crawford Wines.