I have been playing a wine game with restaurant sommeliers and wine nerds across town where I show up with a mystery bottle and ask them to review it blind. By not knowing what the wine is or who represents it, hopefully, an honest-no-bs-review is achieved. ~ PK
Come inside and read the review of our next contestant…
^ Mr. Owen Knowlton, wine director of West Restaurant + Bar.
2008 La Stella Vivace Pinot Grigio
ABV: 13.9%
Category: Pinot Grigio
Country: Osoyoos, BC Canada
Winemaker: Lastella
Varietal Character/Distinctiveness: 4.5 ~ “Varietal correct. Floral. Peachy. Very fresh and clean.”
Expression: 5 ~ “Delicate and classy nose. Sweet, ripe fruit on the palate. No oak.”
Complexity: 3 ~ “Simple style. Easy to drink. It is not trying to be something it’s not.”
Balance: 3.5 ~ “A little lacking on the acidity. Very fruity, almost off dry.”
Value: 3.5 ~ “Not bad. Great little wine for the summer.”
Further Notes: “Would be great with spring salmon off the grill. The sweet, rich fruit on the palate would be a crowd-pleaser.”
Score: 19.5/25
Availability: direct from the winery, Firefly Fine Wines & Ales, Viti, Dundarave Wine Cellars
Pricing: $25-32
Wine review by Owen Knowlton, wine director of West Restaurant + Bar.
