Juicy tangerine, fresh wildflowers, grapefruit zest. Ripe nectarine, forest floor, Mexican papaya. A surprisingly exotic and expressive procession of lemon peel, guava nectar, and cherry pit shines with complex and captivating luster within an unexpectedly layered and multidimensional display. Notes of hibiscus and white blossoms softly emerge to complement clean floral overtones juxtaposed against intriguing forest hints of tree bark and undergrowth. A delicate pinch of cinnamon and white pepper expose subtle flecks of spice that rise above pleasant earthy impressions of loamy soil. Charmingly fresh, peppy, and youthful on the palate while also remaining impressively deep and complex; exhibiting an elegant and gently expressive presentation that is incredibly unique and fun. Medium minus in body with just under moderate tannin kept fresh by elevated acidity. This 2020 Willamette Valley Pinot Gris by Big Table Farm is an unconventional yet alluring orange wine from Oregon.

Though it is most often made into simple white wines known for being fresh, crisp, and primary, Pinot Gris boasts grapes that have a greyish-pink skin color which, if allowed extended contact with their juice, can help create orange wines that have tremendously unique flavor profiles. This bottling, crafted by Big Table Farm using Pinot Gris sourced from within the Willamette Valley, is an outstanding example of the energy and complexity skin-contact Pinot Gris can express. This wine generously emits diverse yet delicious fruit containing everything from citrus to berry to tropical fruits, and it backs them with pretty forest tones, clean florals, gentle spice, and a touch of earthiness. It carefully and intriguingly tows the line between characteristics typical of red and white wine, and makes for a thoroughly enjoyable drinking experience both on its own or with food. Awesome.