Ruby Vineyard, Willamette Valley (Oregon) Pinot Gris 2024 ($21)

A small, family-owned winery that began in 2012, Ruby has lately been making news for its Pinot Noirs, but this Pinot Gris is also quite newsworthy. Made from two vineyards, the 40-year-old Merten Vineyard and the Ingus Row Vineyard, this wine was stainless fermented and aged. It did not go through malolactic fermentation and, at least partially as a result, is quite vibrant and crisp. Light straw in color, it offers an inviting aroma of freshly cut apple and tangerine with some hints of citrus and minerals. Firm, smooth and balanced, it delivers fresh fruit flavors led by nectarine and citrus wrapped in a crisp acidity. Enjoy this wine by the glass, but this is one Pinot Gris that is also food friendly.
91 Norm Roby