This week’s inexpensive; potentially bargain wine comes from Mendoza, Argentina’s major wine-producing region. Mendoza boasts an unbelievable 300 days of sunshine per year. Glacial melt waters from the Andes “irrigate” the desert, and the soil is organically poor (just in case you don’t know, that’s fine for wine grapes). Given the large number of Argentines of Italian background, it’s no surprise that the grape is called Pinot Grigio rather than the French-English version, Pinot Gris. The Argento winery was established in 1998. It produces over a dozen wines from popular grapes; several are available at $10 or less in my bailiwick. Today’s companion wine is an Oregon Pinot Gris, at twice the price.
OUR WINE REVIEW POLICY All wines that we taste and review are purchased at the full retail price.
Wine Reviewed
Argento Pinot Grigio 2011 13 % alcohol about $9.50.
Let’s start by quoting the marketing materials. “Tasting Note: Pale straw color; peach and tropical fruit aromas; extra dry palate with medium body and crisp flavors. Serving Suggestion: Creamy pasta dishes, grilled shrimp or as an aperitif.” And now for my review.
At the first sips this wine offered harsh acidity and some apples. It had moderate length and rolled over Japanese rice crackers but a Wasabi pea took away some of its edge. My initial meal centered on an omelet spiced with black pepper, ground garlic, and basil. Harsh acidity still prevailed. When paired with zesty guacamole, this liquid became rounder but did not offer much fruit. In response to a chocolate mousse this libation offered some apples and now its acidity was light.
This review of Mendoza, Argentina Pinot Grigio continues on my website.
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