Faith, Hope & Charity Vineyards, Terrebonne (Central Oregon) Frontenac Gris 2018

 Recently developed as winter hardy by the University of Minnesota, Frontenac Gris is grown in this estate vineyard alongside Frontenac, a red hybrid that has a longer history in the East Coast.  Of the several whites tasted at the winery, this Gris seemed more complex than the others.  Dark in color, amber more than yellow, it is loaded with ripe peach and orange character.  Round on the palate, it comes across with expansive orange rind, dried apricot flavors.  Some spiced fruit adds intrigue.  Another white hybrid tasted was the winery’s 2019 La Crescent.  While rich with pineapple character and slightly oily in texture, it was a wine that might appeal to die-hard orange wine fans.