Friday, July 23, 2010

Pinot Gris/Grigio from California: Francis Coppola Diamond Pinot Grigio 2008


Popularized in Northern Italy where seafood is abundant, Pinot Grigio is a varietal that requires a temperate climate and delicate handling. Our Pinot Grigio is grown in California's cool climate appellations, where the grape performs its best. Picked in the early morning hours, fermented at cold temperatures and finished in stainless steel, Francis Coppola Diamond Collection Pinot Grigio is bright and crisp with an accent of minerals.

The 2008 vintage was tricky across California—severe spring frost damaged the vineyards and a heat wave in late August prompted harvest to begin a few weeks early. On the upside of this, the frost that occurred early in the year diminished the overall fruit yield. Having less fruit on the vines meant that the grapes that remained had more flavor concentration because the vines didn't need to nourish as much fruit. So, in spite of uncooperative weather, our Pinot Grigio delivers good body and balance and beautifully aromatic fruit flavors that pair perfectly with spring rolls, oysters, and barbecued shrimp.

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