Winery: Olsen Family Vineyards
Wine: Viridian Pinot Gris 2007
Location: Willamette Valley, Oregon
Purchased: The Corkscrew
Price: $14.99

Sometime, I get too caught up with sampling my favorite varietals in hopes of finding a new favorite or everyday drinker. In general, I’m more of a red drinker and in particular a Cabernet Sauvignon LOVER! However, there are times when I prefer a white….certain food pairings and most summer days. Every now and then, I’ve got to remind myself that I need to keep trying some of my less favorite varietals. Such is the case with the Olsen Family Vineyards Viridian Pinot Gris. I haven’t tried or enjoyed many Pinot Gris in the past, but if I keep trying them I might just find one I like.

 

The Olsen Family Vineyards Pinot Gris showed colors of hay or straw. On the nose, we noticed aromas of melons, grass, pine, minerals and citrus. On the palate, this wine seemed harsh and rough compared to other white wines. It needed some help to smooth out those edges. It was light like other whites, making it refreshing.

 

The history of Olsen Family Vineyards dates back to the 1800s when the Willamette Valley was first settled. Five generations of the Olsen family have farmed and maintained the nearly 11,000 acres between Portland and Eugene, Oregon. The family’s main crop is grass seed, but they produce a variety of agriculture products including wine grapes. Vineyard manager Dean Underwood oversees 450 acres, covering five vineyards. Winemaker Bill Kremer joined Olsen Family Vineyards in the summer of 2008, overseeing the production of their flagship varietals, Pinot Noir and Pinot Gris. They also dabble in Riesling, Chardonnay, Cabernet Sauvignon, Viognier and Gewürztraminer.