A to Z Wineworks, a winery whose clever slogan is “aristocratic wines at democratic prices”, is a partnership of some of the best talent in Oregon’s Willamette Valley. If you’ve tried (and enjoyed) wines from Penner Ash, Rex Hill or Chehalem, you’ll love what’s in bottles of A to Z. A fun “negociant” brand, the team buys grapes from all over the state to craft their wines. It allows them flexibility during bad vintages, as well as exploration of grapes grown around the state. And, it allows them to make mind-blowing wines at incredibly low prices. Basically, these are people having fun.
The A to Z 2007 Riesling is Germanic in style: Medium-bodied and fruity with loads of slate minerality on the first part of the sip, then slips into flavors of unripe peaches and lemon. Finishes crisp, dry and refreshing. Incredible quality for the price.
Sweetness: 2 out of 10
Rating: 5 out of 5
Price: $14 – $16
Occasion: Tasted at a professional wine trade event
Food pairing: With strong sheep’s milk cheeses, spicy Asian cuisine, sipping wine
Availability: On restaurant wine lists and at high end wine shops
A to Z 2008 Pinot Noir Oregon is restrained in its fruitiness, a departure from many rich, extracted and heavily cherried Oregon Pinots. Fresh with high acidity, it sings with sour cherry, cranberry and a slightly dirty, earthy finish. This is a Pinot Noir for food. Serve chilled.
Sweetness: 2 out of 10
Rating: 5 out of 5
Price: $16 – $20
Occasion: Tasted at a professional wine trade event
Food pairing: Thanksgiving dinner, roasted duck breast, chicken with brown sauces
Availability: On restaurant wine lists and at high end wine shops
Available online at B-21.com
The last time I had A to Z was the 2006 vintage and it just didn’t do it for me. Granted, it was tasted at an event without food and like many higher acid wines, it just didn’t show that well on that day. Based on your comments here, I’ll have to keep my eyes out for this and give it a try. Sounds like 2008 Oregon Pinots are generally of superior quality.