LA CREMA TOASTS SPRING WITH NEW VARIETAL INTRODUCTION
2012 Monterey Pinot Gris pairs with sunny skies, hammocks and flip-flops
After decades of focus on Pinot Noir and Chardonnay, La Crema is adding new Monterey Pinot Gris to its selection. The varietal complements the winery’s offerings, providing a crisp, fresh alternative that pairs perfectly with warm weather, or with the light pastas, fish and salads of the season.
“We were intrigued with Pinot Gris because it gave us the chance to create a white wine in a different style, yet with the nuance, delicacy and texture for which we’re known,” said Elizabeth Grant-Douglas, winemaker. “It’s bright and juicy, with subtle floral hints – in short, the perfect choice for Spring.”
Grapes were grown in Monterey, where the cool, maritime-influenced climate leads to one of the longest growing seasons in California. The wine opens with aromas of white peach and lemon drop. On the palate, layers of yellow plum and ripe pear are punctuated with sweet spice and tropical notes. The finish is lengthy and elegant, with a broad vein of minerality.
“Pinot Gris expresses itself best when handled gently,” said Grant-Douglas. “That’s why our grapes were pressed without de-stemming, and the wine was fermented in 100% stainless steel to preserve the fruit flavors.”
Approachable and food-friendly, the popularity of Pinot Gris is on the rise. Retail trends reported by industry research group Symphony/IRI indicate sales of domestic Pinot Grigio/Gris are growing at a double-digit rate, three times more quickly than the overall white wine category.
La Crema 2012 Monterey Pinot Gris will be available nationwide beginning in May at a suggested retail price of $20.
Aimee Sands
Sr. Communications Manager
707.547.4703
About La Crema
La Crema is widely loved for handcrafted Chardonnay, Pinot Noir and new Pinot Gris. For more than 30 years, the family-owned and operated winery has focused exclusively on California’s cool climate coastal appellations, where ocean winds and fog allow grapes to ripen slowly on the vine. Winemaker Elizabeth Grant-Douglas continues to use boutique techniques to produce distinctively balanced and elegant wines. A leader in sustainable vineyard and winery practices, La Crema combines traditional farming methods with new technologies to conserve water, minimize energy use and naturally reduce pests. To learn more, visit www.LaCrema.com or follow us on Facebook (www.facebook.com/LaCremaWinery) or Twitter (@LaCremaWines). Watch the new La Crema Pinot Gris introduction video at http://www.youtube.com/lacremawinery.
Tags:
