Norm's Tasting Notes: 2014 Au Contraire Pinot Gris

Norm's Tasting Notes

by: Norm Bentley

normwine@bellsouth.net

The North Georgia Wine Advisor

2014 Au Contraire Pinot Gris

#nb-26-16

We recently had friends join us for a seafood dinner, who are fans of Pinot Grigio. Since I had just received a highly recommended sample of a Pinot Gris, we paired it up with our fish and shellfish spread. Of course, since I had not tasted it previously, I had another bottle on hand, just in case. No backup was necessary! The 2014 Au Contraire Pinot Gris was delightful, and prompted a few comments about the difference between Pinot Grigio and Pinot Gris.

In the past, the general definition of Pinot Gris referred to a Pinot Grigio which had some oak aging and was slightly more dry, as opposed to those aged in stainless steel. However, the Au Contraire, like the last three Pino Gris wines which I have sampled has no oak. So just think of it in terms of two different names for the same grape. The same is true for California Sauvignon Blancs which go by the name Fume Blanc. At any rate, the Au Contraire is a good choice regardless of its grape name.

The Au Contraire opens with a fragrant bouquet of fresh flowers and a mild trace of citrus. The flavors abound with the presence of stone fruit backed by melon and a hint of citrus in the background. The finish is crisp, clean and very refreshing. Norm's score is 90.

We enjoyed the Au Contraire with a platter of fish and shellfish for a memorable repast. The wine would pair well with a variety of foods during all seasons. However, this style of wine really shines during the hot summer months, and would make an excellent "back porch sipper".

price : $14 - $19

score: 90

Norm

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