What to Drink: Trimbach Pinot Gris Réserve 2004
Pinot grigio has grown hugely popular over the last decade, but few of its fans have tasted the “original” style, of which the Italian version is but pale imitation. This grape is native to France, where it is called “pinot gris,” and is a particular specialty of the Alsace region along the German border. Here, this grape gets riper and far more flavorful than anywhere else in the world. Pinot grigio may be known for its delicacy, but Alsace pinot gris delivers opulence and flavor intensity.
Among Alsace wineries, Trimbach is not the largest, but it certainly has the greatest reputation. Long a leader in the region, this house is run by the 12th generation of the Trimbach family and honors regional tradition over modern wine fads. Their pinot gris is opulent in texture and displays a hint of sweetness. Aromas of orchard fruits, like peach and nectarine, mingle with floral hints of honeysuckle. A lovely partner for spicy foods, like chicken curry, this $18.99 pinot gris is also outstanding with cold summer dishes like poached salmon or cold roast chicken.