Left Coast Cellars The Orchards Willamette Valley Pinot Gris 2009

A classic Oregon Gris that boasts lively fruit and balanced acidity, Left Coast’s 2009 The Orchards Pinot Gris makes its mark as a true crowd pleaser. Brightly robed, highly aromatic, and vibrant from start to finish, Left Coast’s Pinot Gris begins its seduction with a cornucopia of enticing aromas: quince, kiwi, Meyer lemon, and lime just for starters. On the palate, the 2009 The Orchards Pinot Gris simply explodes with flavor. Lemongrass, white peach, and quince, infused collectively with a soft subtle minerality, delight the tongue and tantalize the gullet as it begs for more. Add to this graceful repertoire a polished, wonderfully crisp finish that hints of fresh ginger, kiwi, and lime and the 2009 The Orchards Pinot Gris is hard to beat. And like West Coast’s other outstanding offerings, there stands to be a number of medals in the offering for this delightful Pinot Gris. For most tasters, moderate chilling (40º-45ºF) appears to offer optimal enjoyment. However, some may prefer this wine at a slightly more ambient temperature.

A wonderfully vibrant, crisp Pinot Gris to sit around and sip, and guzzle, too, the 2009 Left Coast The Orchards Pinot Gris needs absolutely nothing to shine, except a clean glass. With bright refreshing flavors and the perfect balance between fruit and acidity, this Pinot Gris carries its welcome with it. However, it also provides the perfect complement to seafood and chicken as well as a myriad of Chinese, Thai, and spicy Indian dishes. Scandinavian Salmon; Penang Pork, served with curried green beans; and Basmati Rice Salad with slivered almonds, fresh greens, and seasonal fruits, constitute just a few exciting choices with Left Coast’s charming Pinot Gris. A carefully chosen cheese platter with almonds, walnuts, and dried fruits pairs well, too. So, whether you are entertaining a crowd or planning an intimate evening with one special guest, the 2009 Left Coast The Orchards Pinot Gris aims to please. Enjoy!

Left Coast Cellars may not yet be on everyone’s radar screen, but the folks at this meticulously tended 300 acre Oregon estate do everything right. Located astride the 45th Parallel in the heart of the Willamette Valley, Left Coast devotes 100 acres of their pristine estate to the cultivation of the vine and the production of compelling wines that are at once subtle, complex, and downright awe inspiring. Given the winery’s prime location and the market’s penchant for full-bodied, highly charged Pinot Noir, it is indeed Pinot Noir that leads the charge at Left Coast Cellars. In fact, this sustainably farmed estate fashions three extraordinary Pinots: Cali’s Cuvée, Latitude 45, and Suzanne’s Reserve. However, Left Coast Cellars is hardly a one wine domain. With plantings in different soil compositions and at varying altitudes, this remarkable winery also turns out outstanding Pinot Gris, Chardonnay, Pinot Blanc, and Syrah. The remainder of the property at Left Coast Cellars supports fruit orchards, meadows, lakes, streams, and one of the last remaining stands of original old growth White Oaks in Willamette Valley. The estate’s park-like setting also attracts migrating birds and displays a surprising amount of biodiversity, including several acres of truffles, hazelnut trees, hollies, and roses. Left Coast Cellars also tends a grove of olive trees and cultivates an organic vegetable garden from which it stocks the winery’s Tasting Room Café. With such a wealth of exceptional wines and delicious organic produce, Left Coast possesses all the gustatory delights. So, is anyone up for a fieldtrip?