Disclosure: I received two bottles of Porter and Plot wines for review purposes, but what truly intrigues me is the story behind the wines.
If I were a wine brand I’d do exactly what Porter & Plot is doing. Where I’d seek out those small-lot wines and bring them to center stage. Not necessarily just focusing on making one significant varietal of wine year after year, but instead, educating others about the new vintages and varietals available within the US.
Rather than attempting to replicate a popular wine year after year Porter & Plot focuses on providing a diverse array of wines with the aim to continually bring consumers new regions and varietals with every vintage.
I was lucky to receive a sample of Porter & Plot’s 2013 Pinot Gris from Columbia Valley, WA along with a bottle of 2012 Pinot Noir from Edna Valley, CA.
Edna Valley, CA is located within the San Luis Obispo area of California, and very much apart of Central Coast’s AVA, an area that is garnering more and more attention for their extraordinary wine, particularly when it comes to their Pinot Noirs and Chardonnays.
Columbia Valley AVA is located in Central to Southern Washington and accounts for 99% of the vineyard area planted in the state of Washington. The AVA covers 11Million acres. Grapes found within this AVA include: Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Chardonnay, Riesling, Syrah, Pinot Gris and Sauvignon Blanc. Wines I am very well familiar with thanks to California.
So, how does the Pinot Noir fare? For just 13 dollars a bottle, this Pinot has a lot of flavor, and showcases a wonderful quality to it. But it truly showcases its quality when paired with a meat hearty dish.
What to pair with this Pinot Noir:
Mushrooms
Duck
Salmon
Roast Pork Loin (always my favorite pairing!)
Just a few examples, but always a good companion to cheese and crackers along with your favorite charcuterie plate.
And how about the Pinot Gris?
I honestly never given enough credit to Pinot Gris. As big of a white wine fan that I am I’m always partial to Sauvignon Blancs, however, when I have the opportunity to enjoy a Pinot Gris, I always do.
This white wine is always a favorite to enjoy during the summer months. Whether alone or mixed in with fruit, or making your own summer sparkler, it’s one of the best wines to mix with.
This particular wine coming out of Columbia Valley offers a fresh crispness with hints of pineapple and lemon. Very different kind of Pinot Gris from others I have tasted before because of these distinct flavors.
Some pairing recommendations include: halibut, salmon, chicken and asian cuisine.
But, to be honest, a nice Pinot Gris is often enjoyed one glass at a time.
For more information about Porter and Plot wines please be sure to visit their site here.