On Saturday night we served a lovely Pinot Noir from J. Hofstätter to 500 guests (see my previous post). I thought it was elegant and representative of a light, flavorful style of Pinot Noir that seems only to come from Alto Adige. To my delight, others enjoyed it as much as I did and it received rave reviews. The next day, as I perused the wine aisles at Whole Foods, I was immediately drawn to another J. Hofstätter wine: the 2010 Pinot Grigio. My impression of this popular Italian varietal was equally positive.
The nose is forward and appealing with great pear, minerality, and melon aromas. Carambola (honestly this is the first time I can remember getting starfruit on the palate in a wine) and citrus added interesting dimensions to the pear and apple flavors. This Pinot Grigio is rich and satisfying without being oaky or cloying. In fact, it has a lanolin viscosity that is reminiscent of Sémillon. Medium acidity. The finish has lingering pear and acidity. Elegant and totally enjoyable. Very good.
At Whole Foods on River Street, Cambridge for $19.99.
