Quality Oregon pinot gris for less than $15 – a fine way to start the new year
Few wines have suffered as much from premiumization as Oregon pinot gris. Not that long ago, there were a variety of quality brands selling the white for $15 or less. Now, those wine are almost all gone, and what’s left at that price is sweet or boring or both.
So when I saw the Westmount Pinot Gris 2021 ($13, purchased, 13.5%) on a local retailer’s shelf, I took the chance. And I’m glad I did.
This is a delightful, almost subtle Oregon pinot gris – all in all, much more than I dared hope for. It reminded me of the quality wines I used to buy at this price, before all those brands went over to the dark side (and since they know who they are, there’s no need to name them).
It’s not exactly classic Oregon pinot gris; there’s more pear than bright lime fruit and more minerality than most. Some of the tasting noteseven mention spice, which may be on hand if you’re looking for it. Regardless, a surprisingly complex wine for the price.
Chill this and drink it on its own or pair it with grilled chicken breasts. Now, sadly, the caveats: prices are all over the place (as much as $20), and the wine may be difficult to find (even though I bought it just a couple of months ago). But that’s the wine business for you.