Suggestive of the Vendange Tardive ("late pick") wines of Alsace, Pinot Gris at Chalk Hill thrives on the coolest, north-facing slopes which foster long hang times and optimum ripeness.
Barrel fermented, but following Alsatian convention, in neutral oak, the wine is complex and concentrated, but without any introduced oak flavors to confound Pinot Gris’ inherent fruit aroma, already evocative of wood. Malolactic fermentations are suppressed to avoid compromising the wine’s bright acidity.
Two Pinot Gris clones are planted on the North Sloppe of the Estate, which is the highest and coolest of the vineyard block. There is very limited production of this wine due to strict adherence to viticultural standards. This is a wine of flavor and balance.
| > 2005 North Slope Pinot Gris | $40 |
| > 2004 North Slope Pinot Gris |  |
| > 2003 North Slope Pinot Gris | |
The small size of the site suitable for Pinot Gris naturally limits the production of this wine. Each year, this wine proves to be a sommelier favorite for its affinity to a wide variety of exotic cuisines.
