Sokol Blosser's current collection includes one white wine, the 2009 Pinot Gris. The wine is whole cluster fermented and raised in tank with no malolactic fermentation. It displays an attractive nose of apple blossom, citrus, and white peach leading to a smooth-textured, spicy, savory offering with good balance and length. Drink it over the next 1-2 years. The 2008 may still be on some shelves; don't hesitate as it is essentially the same quality. Sokol Blosser was established in 1971 making it one of the pioneer wineries of Willamette Valley. However, their wines had not been reviewed in this journal since 2002 when they decided to no longer submit samples to critics. When I learned that they had changed their position I arranged a visit to the winery located in the Dundee Hills AVA. The next generation is now operating the winery with siblings Alex and Alison Sokol Blosser having succeeded their parents. Production stands at 65,000 cases, about half of which is their extraordinarily successful Evolution white blend. Sokol Blosser releases their wines later than most so that 2007 is the current vintage. Sokol Blosser's 2008s are all in bottle and, not surprisingly, a significant step above the 2007s (a statement which applies to almost every Willamette Valley producer - although many 2007s seem to have gained weight over the last year).www.sokolblosser.com

The opening of ripe pears and apples seems right on the money, however, the palate is a bit overzealous and spritzy, with sharper than expected orange, grapefruit and lemon flavors. This wine exemplifies the overt, lively style of Pinot Gris, but it’s one-dimensional and lacks subtlety. —M.S.——M.S.(12/31/2002)—— 85