Picollo ‘Rovereto’ Gavi 2020 – nicknamed the ‘Chablis of Italy’.
The Winery was established in 1945 and is now run by third-generation Gianlorenzo Ernesto and is situated in the picturesque hills surrounding the town of Gavi. This is considered the most prestigious site in the appellation and is 260 meters above sea level taking full advantage of the sea breezes and Mediterranean climate keeping the vineyard cool. The grapes are sourced from a 16-acre site with vines aged about 60 years planted only with one of Italy’s most coveted white varietals.
This is 100% Cortese and is made with a minimal intervention approach, hand-picked, with no artificial pesticides or herbicides used. Add stainless steel to the mix and you have an excellent varietal showcased in its purest form.
Characterized by racy acidity, and mouth-watering appeal. The nose is enticing with lime, green apple, and subtly herbs. The mouthfeel is crisp clean and inviting. The palate showcases layers of green apple, pear, and lime, with cooking herbs, a slightly nutty, and a flinty mineral note to round things out.
Throw some seafood on the grill, sushi, seafood Risotto, Spinach salad with goat’s cheese, or with some crusty bread and some Italian cheese such as Brunet, Taleggio, Stracchino, Robiola di Roccaverano, and Capra Sarda.
This is meant to be drunk young so do not think about cellaring it for any length of time, there will be plenty next vintage.
Hyland Estates- Unsung hero of the Northwest.
The vineyards were established in 1971 by four families and is Oregon’s oldest and largest vineyard with 185 acres currently under vine. It is situated in the McMinnville AVA, south facing at an altitude of 600 – 800 ft on a mixture of volcanic, Marine sedimentary, and Marine bedrock. This site is ideal for Riesling and Gewürztraminer taking advantage of the cool ocean breezes being channeled through the Van Duzer Corridor.
Hyland Estates was established 10 years ago and with thirty-five 90+ point ratings suggesting unlimited potential in the future. Time will tell.
At the largely unknown 1985 Burgundy Challenge in Paris, panelists were unable to distinguish between Oregon and Burgundian Pinot Noirs. Three Oregon Pinots scored higher than their Burgundian counterparts, all made with Hyland fruit.
Hyland Estates Old Vine Riesling 2022
Beautifully balanced with an inviting mouthfeel and acidity, this could be the best Riesling I have tasted out of the Northwest.
The nose will give you a hint as to what is to come with layers of elderflower, lemon peel, beeswax, and ginger. The first sip will impress with a level of richness, depth, and complexity that can only come from aged vines- in this case, 50-plus years old.
There is a crisp freshness wrapped up in layers of lemon, orange peel, and honeydew melon, with secondary layers of pineapple, green apple, and white peach. This is an impressive wine and an absolute delight to drink.
Winemaker recommends pairing this with fried chicken and waffles, I would also think Pad Thai Chicken, your choice of White fish- Bass or Swordfish from the grill, and let us not forget Shellfish, prawns, and Scallops.
This will cellar out to 2030 without a problem.
Hyland Estates Old Vine Gewürztraminer 2022
Not as floral as an Alsace but enticing, nevertheless. Floral notes of elderflower are wrapped around ginger, melon, and white peach. The palate is inviting with balance, depth, and complexity evident showcasing layers of candied ginger, honeysuckle, and spices, with a hint of white stone fruits. Nice long finish with a slightly aggressive, racy attitude to round things out. Another Oregon Gem.
Parings should include pretty much anything from the sea. Thai and Indian food, spicy Sichuan dishes- chicken, and Duck. I would also Street Tacos- chicken from the grill.
This will cellar out to 2028 and possibly beyond.
Vine to Table 