Chehalem, Chehalem Mountains (Willamette Valley, Oregon) Pinot Gris 2019

 Pinot Gris, pale cousin of Pinot Noir, is the second most planted wine grape variety in Oregon.  Check out this great example with pale golden color, aromas of ripe Bosc pear, wisps of chamomile, with notes of dusty minerals, and flavors of pear and green apples that are bright and lively with vibrant acidity.  It is juicy in the mouth and lean in the finish, and will happily share a spot at the table with grilled halibut or roast chicken.  In 1982, Harry Peterson Nedry was the first to plant vines on Ribbon Ridge, located in the Chehalem Mountains.  He and his family bought the property in 1980 and they produced their first commercial vintage in 1990.  In 2018, Peterson Nedry sold his interest in the winery to Bill Stoller who had been an investor in Chehalem since 1993.  Katie Santora had been assistant winemaker since 2012, so she was the right person in the right place to become winemaker in 2018.  A native of Utah, she attended UC Davis, graduating with a degree in Enology and Viticulture.