It’s summer, when an oenophile’s heart turns to… well, yes… white wines (among other things). But when temperatures are on the rise, those big, bold, buttery, lethally alcoholic, over-oaked, overwhelming, and usually overpriced California chardonnays just don’t make it. For warm weather imbibing, most wine lovers want wines that are crisp, cool, and refreshing; wines that complement lighter summer cuisine or are suitable for casual, quiet afternoon sipping.
I’ve always found that Italian white wines, particularly pinot grigios, fill the bill quite nicely. My personal favorite for everyday quaffing is the one produced by the Kris Winery in northeast Italy.
Three years ago, I reviewed the 2007 pinot grigio, which I thoroughly enjoyed and highly recommended. This time around, it’s the 2010 that is currently available; and, like previous vintages, it is equally up to the mark. And, also like its predecessors, it was fermented in stainless steel tanks to produce an unadulterated wine that is clean and invigorating on the palate. Quality-wise, it is totally reliable year after year.
And this wine is extremely versatile. If you’re heading out to a BYOB restaurant, for example, this is a pinot grigio that is always a safe bet to tote along. It marries extremely well with Chinese, Japanese, and Mediterranean cuisines; and cools down fiery Indian and Mexican fare. In other words this isn’t a wine for aging… this is a wine for drinking. So it always pays to have a bottle or two chilling in the fridge.
Exhibiting a host of bright citrus flavors, the 2010 Kris Pinot Grigio also sports a marvelously refreshing acidity and beautifully balanced 12.5% alcohol. The best part, however, is the modest price tag. Depending upon the state in which it is purchased, this wine retails for between $12.00 and $15.00.
Cheers!
TAD
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