Unlike many labels that lure you in with clever labels (this one is designed by Ralph Steadman), the juice inside this bottle isn’t plonk. The Hugel family brand from France’s Alsace region (read more about this area) is known for its quality, 370 year history and dedication to the land. On their estate, they grow mostly Riesling and Gewürztraminer, but this Pinot Gris is sourced from vineyards in and around their property. Refreshingly dry with wet stone minerality, ripe pear and golden apple, it’s fuller-bodied than Pinot Gris from the New World (Oregon, California) and Italian Pinot Grigios (same grape, different region). Rich with soft acidity on the tongue but finishes tart bone dry. Pretty delicious.
Sweetness: 1 out of 10
Rating: 4 stars
Price: $14-$16
Occasion: Sent as a sample from the winery and tasted blind with other wine professionals. They liked it too.
Food pairing: Aromatic dishes, especially shrimp in a creamier sauce and heartier white fish steamed with herbs
Availability: At fine wine shops
