Fruit for FEL’s varietal Pinot Gris is harvested from Hein Vineyard, near Navarro. The grapes were fermented in about equal parts neutral French oak barrels and 900-gallon French oak tank, and the wine enjoyed five months of aging sur lie prior to bottling.
The pale yellow robe offers aromas of yellow apple, Bosc pear, cream, and wet stone. The oak aging is noticeable in the wine’s earthy character, which complements flavors of tart pear and baked apple spiked with spice. The texture is both silken and weighty, and it lights up with glittery acidity at the finish.
It’s a terrific choice for a mixed cheese course, as its heft will meet aged cheeses while its freshness will balance younger ones. Also good for fish, poultry, curries, pilafs, and other lightly spiced cuisine. Don’t serve it too cold.
2019 FEL Pinot Gris Anderson Valley
13.9% abv | $25 (sample)
