Erath

2009 Pinot Gris

Willamette Valley Oregon

While Oregon is best known for world class Pinot Noir, and more recently for excellent Riesling, the Pinot Gris varietal that was planted along with Pinot Noir has not received the acclaim it is justly due.

In 1969 Dick Erath was one of the first to recognize the cool-climate grape growing potential of Oregon's Willamette Valley. A firm believer that great wines are grown not made, he actively pursued vineyard development in Dundee's red hills. Now some forty years later Erath farms 115 acres, supplying about 70% of the winery's grapes for each vintage. The remainder comes from other vineyards in the Willamette and Umpqua Valleys. Owned since 2006 by Ste. Michelle Wine Estates, Erath today produces moderately priced Pinot Noir, Pinot Blanc and Pinot Gris wines. During a recent visit I found the winery has maintained it understated strength.

The 2009 Erath Pinot Gris has a mild bouquet, leading into appealing ripe hard fruit (apple and pear) flavors. Crisp and spicy, with good full body and a lingering flavor of dry savory spices, is balanced with just the right amount of acid..