Soléna Willamette Valley Pinot Gris 2022

The Willamette Valley in Oregon may been mostly known for Pinot Noir, but they also make terrific Pinot Gris whites like this one from Soléna. Pinot Gris (aka Pinot Grigio but a different style) is actually Pinot Noir’s sibling grape, and both thrive in this area. Soléna showcases how good Oregon Pinot Gris can be. Made by French winemaker Laurent Montalieu who has lived in the Willamette for decades with his American wife.

This Pinot Gris strikes that elusive balance of creamy, refreshing, and fruit-forward. It is refreshing and delicious on it's own, but goes nicely with a variety of foods. The wine begins with aromas of honeysuckle blossom and crunchy apple. Upon first sip the palate is luscious and juicy. Flavors of lemon zest, lychee and pear turn into a clean mineral finish. This Pinot Gris is perfect for pairing with summer salads, seafood, and creamy pasta. Made of 98% Pinot Gris and 2% Gewürztraminer. Alcohol: 13.5% Aging: Sur Lie, 6 months. 

Soléna is a combination of Spanish and French words Solana and Soleil, celebrating the sun, the moon and cycles of life. Launched in May of 2000 when owners Laurent Montalieu and Danielle Andrus Montalieu purchased an 80-acre estate which became the Domaine Danielle Laurent vineyard. Furthering their successful careers in the Oregon wine industry, Laurent Montalieu and Danielle Andrus Montalieu gifted this vineyard to each other for their wedding, and began making wine under the label named Soléna after their daughter. Soléna Estate showcases the beauty of terroir in site-specific wines crafting delicious wine from their own estate vineyards in Yamhill-Carlton and McMinnville AVAs, as well as iconic single-vineyards around the Northwest. They are becoming known for consistent Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, Pinot Gris and Cabernet Sauvignon.