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J Vineyards 2012 California Pinot Gris

J Vineyards and Winery is a small independent producer of quality wine located south of Healdsburg in the Russian River Valley AVA of Sonoma County.  J was first known for sparkling wine, but now is also known for Pinot Noir, Chardonnay and Pinot Gris.  J produces three different Pinot Gris wines and the California Pinot Gris is the lowest price point version.  The grapes for the California Pinot Gris do not come from the Russian River Valley estate vineyards but come from assorted appellations throughout California.

This wine has a very unique flavor profile, beginning with ripe pear and pineapple and finishing with sweet honey.  You may really like this unique wine but it was just not my favorite.  I prefer the traditional Pinot Gris often produced in Oregon.  You will not know if you like this wine unless you give it a try.  I found this wine at Costco for $12.99.


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