A Great Summer Chiller

Buena Vista Carneros Pinot Gris, California, 2007

Cost: $21-23

What: This delightful, refreshing, flavorful wine has become one of my summer favorites. I first discovered it on a trip to the winery last year, and now I try to keep several bottles of the current vintage on hand at all times. It shows delicate aromas of lemon and orange, with flavors of citrus (primarily lemon and lime), peach, melon and minerals. The acidity keeps it well balanced. Served well chilled, it is a perfect summer sipper.

Winery: Buena Vista is California’s oldest winery, founded in 1857 by Hungarian count Agoston Haraszthy, who is regarded as the father of California’s wine industry. Buena Vista has the largest bloc of land in Carneros, at the southern tip of Napa and Sonoma Valleys. Wind and fog sweep in daily from the San Francisco Bay to cool the vines and make for a long growing season. The legend is that after returning from Europe with 100,000 grape vines in 1861 (which he shared with other wineries), the count left for Nicaragua to explore rum interests. Unfortunately, he died crossing a crocodile-infested river. The tasting room is in a California Historic Landmark, just outside of Sonoma, inside the restored 1862 Press House. It’s a beautiful grey stone building, with tastings taking place at an elegant, long wooden bar. They produce Chardonnay, Merlot, Pinot Noir, Syrah and Pinot Gris.

Goes with: This is a great wine for brunch, or served with delicate fish and seafood dishes. A good pairing would be with crab ravioli in a light cream sauce or pan-seared scallops. I had it with fried shrimp and it was fantastic.