Pietra Santa Winery 2009 Pinot Grigio -- Wine Review
Cienega Valley, California
Our Selection for Wine of the Week September 13, 2010
Crisp Californian Wine Pietra Santa Winery
2009 Pinot Grigio California
Pietra Santa is a wine estate with an interesting history. Currently owned by John, Phyllis and Cort Blackburn, the property was first planted with vines in the 1850's by French vintner Theophile Vache. Just 25 miles from Monterey Bay, the estate enjoys a climate perfect for growing both wine and olives. In fact, 25 acres at Pietra Santa are planted with olive groves. Under the Pietra Santa label, the winery produces Cabernet Sauvignon, Chardonnay, Dolcetto, Gewürztraminer, Merlot, Pinot Noir, Sangiovese and Zinfandel as well as Pinot Grigio. The 2009 Pinot Grigio is made from hillside fruit fermented in stainless steel. The result is a clean wine with flavors that are reflective of the terroir. Its aromas and tastes are primarily grapefruit and lemon with a hint of cut grass, yellow peach and minerality on the finish. A zippy wine, it will make a nice accompaniment to late-summer produce like tomatoes, white peaches and squashes. Try it with a salad of heirloom tomatoes, arugula and roasted corn or pair it with poached chicken and a traditional ratatouille.