Heronhill_08pinotblancI have to admit that most of my experience with pinot blanc is with New York renditions — especially from Long Island where a few wineries produce it. I've had a handful from other regions too — Alsace of course and one or two from northern Italy — and I'm always surprised that the grape doesn't get more attention.

If nothing else, they are great summer sippers and I find it difficult to ever dislike them. They are what they are — sometimes austere to the point of being boring, but hardly offensive.

Heron Hill Winery 2008 Pinot Blanc ($18) is a mouthwatering wine that is vaguely reminiscent of sauvignon blanc — minus the grassy herbaceous quality.

Gooseberry, green apple aromas dominate a fruity-but-bright nose with a little lemony citrus in there too. 

Medium bodied it features snappy, citrusy acidity that brings tension and verve to citrus, kiwi and gooseberry flavors.

The finish isn't long, but doesn't drop off a cliff either, ending with more citrus and subtle wet stone quality.

Producer: Heron Hill Winery

AVA: Finger Lakes
ABV:
12.5%

Price: $28*
Rating:
86

(*Ratings Guide)