THE TASTING BENCH Our weekly review of the best drink releases Mixed Pinot Gris Pinot grigio or gris, depending on the style in which it is made (or the name the marketing department prefers), may not have gained the foothold in the market that we have seen with sauvignon blanc, but it has become increasingly popular. There are some excellent and top value offerings available, a few which are more complex and intriguing, as well as a large number on the shelves made as fresh, crisp, pleasant easy-drinking styles. It is worth a little effort to shift through chaff to ensure you find the picks. Pinot grigio/gris is very much a grape that works best with food. Tomich Rhyme & Reason Pinot Grigio 2014 $20. Adelaide Hills. 12.5%. S/cap. Although this grape does well in so many different regions, if there was one where it does thrive in, it would have to be the Adelaide Hills. This wine opens up into a richer style, but initially, it is an attractive, slightly crisp style. Nicely perfumed; there are notes of spices, pears, river stones. More length than many. 89. Angove Long Row Pinot Grigio 2014 $10. South Australia. 12.5%. S/cap. Excellent value. Has that slightly bronze hint that is often found with this variety. Some bright pear notes. There is no subtlety here - just plenty of flavour and it does offer some genuine varietal character, which is very rare at this price level. It is an upfront and slightly broad style, but pleasant and enjoyable. 87. Smith & Hooper Pinot Grigio 2013 $19. Wrattonbully. 12.5%. S/cap. An extra year here has allowed this wine to build a little extra depth and richness. No doubt the wild ferment also contributes. Offers good focus and nice length. Notes of pears and minerals. Still quite pleasantly fresh. Exhibits the way this grape can shine in so many different locales. 90. West Cape Howe Pinot Grigio 2013 $17. Western Australia. 13.6%. S/cap. An attractive effort from the west. Some floral and spice notes to be found here. It is a mid-length style, which fans out towards the finish. The extra year in the bottle has done it no harm at all. A gentle style with pleasing aromatics. 88. By Ken Gargett
DrinksWeekly_October31
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