Our Grapes

About Pinot Gris

Pinot gris is a cousin of pint noir. Both varietals are best suited to climatic conditions and soils of the Russian River Valley. Pinot gris is interesting in that the color is a leather-brown or tawny color, unlike most wine-grapes which range from green/yellow to red or deep purple. Clusters are small and compact with great concentrations of flavors at harvest time. Historically the wine has been produced in the Alsace region of France where it was traditionally made in a dry and crisp style. In recent years many producers have made the wine off- dry, producing a rich and sweet beverage attractive to some palates. We prefer the wine dry with no oak and no malolactic fermentation. This allows the natural fruit and spice flavors of the grapes to best express themselves and, when combined with sur-lie aging and a cold fermentation, produces a smooth and refreshing wine which compliments any food.