Etude, Carneros – Napa Valley (California) Pinot Gris 2020

 Many American wineries will produce a wine from a grape variety that is not in keeping with either the bulk of their portfolio or the favored grapes of the region.  Sometimes it’s a Chenin Blanc or a Petite Sirah or a Riesling that an owner or a winemaker can’t bear to give up.  With Carneros-based Etude, it’s Pinot Gris, which the winery was producing before Pinot Grigio became such a big import sensation.  The 2020 vintage is a nicely made wine, very enjoyable, but not something anyone would get too excited about.  It has very enjoyable honeyed aromas and tastes that linger for a while, along with savory spices, a white cheese note and medium acidity.