The 2008 Pinot Gris Estate has an alluring nose of melon, mineral, and floral notes leading to a creamy-textured, rich, concentrated wine. The price is a steal. A visit to The Eyrie Vineyards and Jason Lett is always a highlight of my 2 weeks in Willamette Valley. Jason pursues his (and his late father’s) vision of viticulture and winemaking with little or no regard to what others are doing, and it seems to work out just fine. www.eyrievineyards.com

Sharp and driven with spicy pear and pineapple fruit, this challenging Pinot Gris is distinctive and tailored for food. The flavors seem to come from the grape skins more than the pulp, and there is no new oak to intercede. Fermented and aged in steel, put through malolactic, still showing plenty of acidity and spice.——P.G.(8/1/2011)—— 88