SOLD OUT! I know, I know, I know. You’re saying “Pinot Grigio is boring, over-produced, and void of flavor” to yourself. Yes, that is often the case, but that is not the case here.
When Team Table Wine tasted this one a few weeks back, we were completely blown away. Awesome aromatics, fuller and richer flavors, and lovely texture…….it’s eerily reminiscent of the Punggl Pinot Grigio and it costs a lot less.
2016 Raetia Pinot Grigio
Rich, ripe, and plump Pinot Grigio!
SOLD OUT
Experts (myself included) agree that the best Pinot Grigios come from the northeastern part of Italy, specifically the regions of Alto Adige and Friuli. Located in the foothills of the Alps, a very special combination of factors contribute to the quality of the wines produced here. The rocky soils contribute complex mineral notes, the warm and sunny days allow the fruit to ripen perfectly, and the cool nights allow the wines to maintain their zesty acidity.
Of course, region and grape only give you so much in a wine — the producer is most important. This one comes from the Viticolori Alto Adige, one of the top cooperatives in the region. Unlike some of the larger coops of the Italy, this one is composed of just 7 growers, and all are committed to quality versus quantity in their production.
I was immediately impressed by the bouquet of this wine — ripe pear, peach, tropical fruits and white flowers jumped out of the glass. The palate was equally impressive. Loads of ripe orchard and tropical fruit notes are buttressed by zesty acidity. I honestly wanted to drink the whole bottle, but that would not be responsible! See if you can exercise that same restraint.
Josh Spurling
Owner, Operator, Wine Monger
Table Wine Asheville