2016 King Estate Paradox Pinot Gris

Tasting Notes

This artisanal small-batch wine was crafted in the spirit of exploration and inquiry. Should oak never touch even a drop of great Pinot Gris? Or should we never say never? For King Estate, which has become synonymous with un oaked Pinot Gris, this wine is a contradiction – a paradox. Color is straw yellow. Peach, apricot, nutmeg, vanilla and almond greet the nose, followed by flavors that add cream, freshly baked bread and sweet oak. With pleasing fruit flavors up front, this wine shows great acid balance. New oak aromas are well integrated although not overpowering, resulting in a lightly oaked, balanced, food-friendly wine.

Vineyard Notes

King Estate Winery is certified by Demeter USA as the largest Biodynamic vineyard in the United States and has been certified organic since 2002. King Estate is situated on primarily two kinds of soil: Bellpine, a marine sedimentary soil and Jory, a volcanic soil. The large daily temperature swings of up to 35 degrees, for which western Oregon is known, serve to enhance flavor development in grapes and balance acidity levels. Elevations range from 700 to just over 1,100 feet with varying slope facings.

Winemaker Notes

This wine was fermented in 100% stainless steel temperature-controlled tanks. Aged three months in French oak barrels, 100% new, then aged sur lie for five months.

Technical Notes

• Vintage 2016
• Varietal
• Appellation Willamette Valley
• Alcohol 13.5
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