Most of the pinot gris coming out of the Finger Lakes (or Long Island for that matter) is mediocre at best, barely a step up from the lemon-water pinot grigio that you'll find at most every bar and restaurant.
As with every wine generalization, there are exceptions of course. For instance, I almost always like Channing Daughters Winery's Pinot Grigio and now I can add a second wine to the "good New York pinot gris/grigio" list: Red Newt Cellars 2007 Curry Creek Vineyards 2007 Pinot Gris ($24)
Right out of the fridge (when the wine was over-chilled) this wine wasn't giving up much on the nose or palate. But, as it warmed just a bit, the nose opened up, showing ripe, juicy pear and apple flavors with nutty-almond and citrus blossom accents.
On the palate, this is medium-to-full bodied and broad, filling the mouth with bright apple and almond flavors, with hints of succulent sweet melon and flowers. Bright acidity cuts that broadness, bringing near-perfect balance. The The finish is medium-long and ends on a clean minerally note that definitely invites another sip.
After my tasting, I enjoyed a glass of this with an assortment of artisan cheeses and it worked wonderfully. Dry riesling is still my go-to for cheese, but this was delicious as well.
Producer: Red Newt Cellars
Price:
$24
ABV: 14.1%
Rating: (3.5 out of 5 | Very good-to-Delicious).