Navarro Vineyards - 2006 Pinot Gris

2006 Pinot Gris
Anderson Valley, Mendocino

Solar power

We aren't surprised when the generosity or paucity of our Gewürztraminer harvest is mirrored in Pinot Gris. Both grapes are cool climate varieties and they grow alongside each other throughout the world. After four dispiriting years of decreasing yields we finally had a bumper Pinot Gris harvest in 2006. Lots of grapes translated into lots of wine so only the best of our best lots were considered for Navarro's Pinot Gris blend. The most exciting field is the Middle Ridge vineyard where the Pinot Gris is grown between 1100 feet and 1250 feet above sea level on a slope facing southwest. The slope, row direction and terraces were designed to maximize the efficiency of the grape canopy for solar collection. The ocean is visible at this elevation and maritime breezes cool the vines every summer day. Even with effective use of the sun this is often our last field to ripen. The berries from this mountain vineyard usually are smaller, have less sugar and a little more acidity than valley floor fruit resulting in wines that have a taut skin that stretches over the flavors that resonate below.

We use the same training system for growing Pinot Gris as we do for Gewürztraminer; it's the traditional training system used in Alsace. By arcing, we encourage growth in the middle of the cane otherwise this variety tends to be more vigorous near the trunk and at the tip of the cane with weak growth in the middle.

Middle Ridge vineyard at sunset. “Navarro, one of California's most perfect wineries, has a track record of nicely aging wines, including a number of the whites, and the 1995 Pinot Gris, which few people chose to age, has recently shown itself to be a fine example of why this is a grape that has a lot more potential than simply as an early sipping wine.” -Dan Berger, Appellation America, March 23, 2007.

The two clones in this field were harvested, cool-fermented then aged as separate lots in French oak ovals and represent 83% of this bottling. Two valley floor vineyards constitute the remainder of the blend and add a rich texture to the whole. The flavors are autumnal with the opulence of ripe pears and walnuts. Gold Medal winner. Best of Class.

Our gates are solar powered which saves a lot of jumping out of the pickup. Congressman Mike Thompson presented Navarro with an award from Fish Friendly Farming this summer. As part of Navarro's conservation plan we fence each vineyard site separately leaving wildlife corridors on most of the ranch.

Specifications

Harvested: Sept. 27 to Oct. 7, 2006
Sugars at harvest: 23.5° Brix
Bottled: May 2 & 3, 2007
Cases produced: 2390
Alcohol: 13.5%
Residual sugars: 0.25%
Titratable acidity: 7.5 g/L
pH: 3.16

2022 Pinot Gris, Anderson Valley

90 points. Editors’ Choice. “This Pinot Gris honors its Alsatian heritage, while truly speaking to its Anderson Valley terroir. Bright, engaging flavors of grass, grapefruit zest, just-ripe pineapple and a hint of capsicum make the mouth water alongside the generous acidity. A beautifully rounded, medium body fills the palate with a glossy texture. The finish lingers with additional notes of white peach and the floral-meets-spice of white pepper.” —Stacy Briscoe, Wine Enthusiast

96 points. Platinum. “Wow! This is always a great bottle, but this might be one of the best ever when it comes to Pinot Gris from Navarro. Just a faint hint of residual sugar serves to brighten everything in a way that amplifies. This is like drinking a beautiful flower arrangement with some stone fruit, apple and citrus mixed in – if you open one in a group of four people I would estimate it will be empty in about three minutes. Just another boffo wine from Navarro.” —Rich Cook, Wine Review Online

2021 Pinot Gris, Anderson Valley

92 points. “Subtle fruit flavors and a slightly tangy yet smooth texture highlight this well-balanced wine that's comfortable and appetizing at the same time. Bosc pear, white peach and subtle rose-petal nuances fill the palate.” —Jim Gordon, Wine Enthusiast

2020 Pinot Gris, Anderson Valley

92 points. Editors’ Choice. “Crystal clear fruit and floral flavors give this medium-bodied wine great focus and purity, while a polished texture and nicely balanced acidity keep it tantalizing. Fuji apple and white-peach notes keep developing on the sip.” —Jim Gordon, Wine Enthusiast

“This pale white gold colored Pinot Gris from Navarro opens with a mild white peach bouquet with a hint of cantaloupe and Meyer lemon. On the palate, this wine is medium bodied with nice balanced acidity. It is also smooth and nicely coats your mouth. The flavor profile is mild lemon and pineapple blend with notes of almond. We also detected hints of ginger ale, chamomile tea, and chalky minerality. The finish is dry and its flavors drift away nicely. The Panel would pair this food friendly Pinot Gris with grilled white perch or pan-seared scallops with asparagus risotto. Enjoy.” —Ken’s Wine Guide, October 1, 2021

2019 Pinot Gris, Anderson Valley

92 points. Editors’ Choice. “Very aromatic and bright, this charming wine overflows with aromas of lemon blossoms and crisp apples, offers fresh citrus flavors and great balance. It's refreshing and vibrant.” —Jim Gordon, Wine Enthusiast

2018 Pinot Gris

"Ripe and lively apple and pear flavors seem to light up this medium-bodied, fresh and well-balanced wine. It has a citrus tang supporting peach and crisp apple notes, and will be a perfect aperitif or pairing with seafood." Wine Enthusiast magazine

2017 Pinot Gris

"This white gold colored Pinot Gris from Navarro opens with a fragrant lime zest and green apple bouquet. On the palate, this wine is medium to full bodied, round and zesty. The flavor profile is a mineral infused Anjou pear with notes of saline and almond with a hint of green apple. The finish is dry and refreshing." KensWineReviews.com

"Though floral and fruity, this wine tastes absolutely dry and refreshing from the first whiff of crisp green apple to the generous white-peach and apricot flavors and through the lingering vibrant finish. Great acidity gives wonderful balance to this elegant wine." Wine Enthusiast magazine

2015 Pinot Gris

"Smooth and graceful, subtle and delicious, this wine comes from an old pro with Alsace varietals and shows a deft touch and great balance. Wonderful peach and Bosc pear flavors mingle on a smooth texture and linger on the finish." Wine Enthusiast magazine

2014 Pinot Gris

Yet another Navarro that impresses with its core characteristics, this well-made Pinot Gris reminds me of those coming out of Oregon. A bit light on color and aromas, it is more forward on fruit flavors that are well-balanced with attractive crispness.John Vankat, Arizona Daily Sun, January 11, 2017.

2014 Pinot Gris

Orange-blossom aromas and lush, broad flavors like banana and pineapple make a good combo in this medium-bodied, soft and richly textured wine. It fermented in oval wood casks and aged eight months on the lees. Jim Gordon, Wine Enthusiast, November 1,2016.

2013 Pinot Gris

A substantive wine, this is on the richer and more full-bodied side for a white. With floral, honeyed aromas and tasty, spicy apple skin and cinnamon flavors, it coats the palate with generous flavors that linger on the finish. Jim Gordon, Wine Enthusiast, May 1,2015.

A classic Alsace style that calls for a few years (2-3) to gain the depth to work as a complete wine. - Dan Berger’s Vintage Experiences, December 11, 2014.

2012 Pinot Gris

Rich but lively and dry, this wine packs a potpourri of spices and citrus fruits in its aromas and flavors, carrying them through to a lingering finish. Substantial and appetizing as an apéritif and excellent with seafood. Jim Gordon, Wine Enthusiast, August 1,2014.

This white offers appealing flavors of yellow apple and ripe pear on a medium body, with refreshing acidity. Features details of fresh ginger on the finish. Drink now. MaryAnn Worobiec , .Wine Spectator, June 30, 2014.

2011 Pinot Gris

This cool-climate Pinot Gris is balanced and light, and it offers refreshing layers of citrus, almond and peach. It will pair with goat cheese and seafood-based appetizers, and it will also be enjoyed on its own. Virginie Boone, Wine Enthusiast, April 1,2013.

2010 Pinot Gris

lively, fresh and fragrant Laurie Daniel, San Jose Mercury News , March 21, 2012.

2009 Pinot Gris

Almond, qumce and honey flavors have a lime-infused finish.- Editors of Food and Wine and Mary G. Burnham, 2012 Food and Wine Wine Guide, ,.

Honey and rose petal up-front, followed by grilled pineapple, orange and melon. Each smell and flavor is distinct. Each sip is divine.Ben Weinberg, Tasting Panel, October,2011.

A nutty pinot gris with pecan and pear flavors, this is a clean and simple white to chill for summer evenings on the deck.. - Wine & Spirit Magazines, Web Only.

This rich, sweetly fruity and creamy wine is almost dessert-like. It has vibrant tropical fruit and peach flavors that taste like they were baked into a pie. But it’s also very acidic, and the finish is dry. Great as a cocktail sipper; try with Thai and Vietnamese fareSteve Heimoff, Wine Enthusiast, March 1,2011.

This pale yellow colored Pinot Gris from Navarro won our first blind tasting for this grape. It opens with a fragrant tangerine and ripe Bartlett pear bouquet. On the palate, this wine is medium bodied and shows harmonious acidity. The flavor profile is a tasty Bartlett pear with notes of melon and just a hint of minerality. The finish is dry and refreshing. The panel thought this would pair well with chicken Caesar salad. Enjoy Ken Hoggins, KensWineGuide.com, November 14, 2010.

Delicate spice of stone fruit and dried pear; dry entry, but fairly rich. A superb cool-climate version. - Dan Berger’s Vintage Experiences, July 22, 2010.

2008 Pinot Gris

Nicely spicy, with ripe apple, pear and lemon flavors that have a crunchy acidity and good follow-through on the finish. Drink now. 1,706 cases made.Maryann Worobiec, Wine Spectator, Web Only 2010.

Wine of the Week. A complex pinot gris with bright aromas and flavors. Notes of lemon, lime, mineral and spice. Lush texture. Peg Melnik, Press Democrat, , February 24, 2010.

2007 Pinot Gris

If you like Pinot Gris with lots of character and flare this offering will impress you. It opens with a light green apple like bouquet. On the palate, this wine is medium bodied, balanced, and slightly creamy. There are irresistible Anjou pear flavors with a touch of pineapple and minerality blended in as well. The finish is dry and mouthwatering. This very food friendly wine would pair very well with halibut. Enjoy – Ken Hoggins, KensWineGuide.com, May 13, 2009.

Perfectly fills the need in California for a bone-dry, racy white wine. Acidity is the star here, enriched with savory lemon and lime zest, grilled pineapple, pepper and mineral flavors. After all the oak and super sweetness of too many wines, it makes you want to sing and dance. Steve Heimoff, Wine Enthusiast, October, 2008.

2005 Pinot Gris

THREE STARS - It has gorgeous tangerine, grapefruit and mineral aromatics and a palate that's medium-full and dry, with green apple, pear and citrus flavors. There is a softness of fruit and a firmness of acidity that gives it intriguing balance. Available at the winery only. - Linda Murphy, San Francisco Chronicle, August 3, 2006.

Exceptional. Spiced (a bit like Gewürz) with peach and other stone fruit, and a very rich entry that’s nonetheless dry. A near-perfect rendition of an often-thin wine. - Dan Berger’s Vintage Experiences, June 22, 2006.

2004 Pinot Gris

Top 100 Wines of 2005. The nose is subtle. Yet has true depth of flavor – melon, fig, mint, muskmelon and tangerine. Complex and balanced. - San Francisco Chronicle Magazine, December 4, 2005.

Exceptional. Faint copper hue in color; a simply astounding aroma of pear, spiced melon, and a hint of clove. Succulent but dry entry, medium-bodied, and great for Asian foods. - Dan Berger’s Vintage Experiences, July 21, 2005.

2003 Pinot Gris

Exceptional. Elegant tropical fruit and pear aroma with hints of white pepper and other spices. Dry, yet succulent. - Dan Berger’s Vintage Experiences, August 26, 2004.

2002 Pinot Gris

Refreshingly vibrant, with lovely floral aromas of creamy nectarine, with a touch of fresh grain and fennel. Crisp, dry and intense, with pear and orange fruit and a finish that fans out. - Wine Spectator, May 15, 2004.

2001 Pinot Gris

Once again, Navarro comes through with the best Pinot Gris in California - and one of the best anywhere. They grow this beautiful wine to a potent ripeness, while the harmony and balance keep it all of a piece. It's generous, yielding an apple-blossom scent, assertive white peach flavor, absinthe complexity - a wine that chardonnay drinkers would love, even if it is not oaky, and not at all like chardonnay. Instead it is like biting into a fresh fruit up in the Anderson Valley hills. - Joshua Greene and Patrick Comiskey, Wine & Spirits, December 2002.

2000 Pinot Gris

Just what you want Pinot Gris to be. Tart and apple-lemony, but with enough richness to satisfy. Strikes the perfect balance of sugar and acid, with an ultraclean finish that leaves a fresh, spicy feeling on the palate. - Steve Heimoff, Wine Enthusiast Magazine, December 15, 2001.

But the best pinot gris we found this month came from Anderson Valley, where Navarro grows the grape in its Philo vineyards. While their 2000 whites show beautifully across the board, this pinot gris is a standout for its richness and spice, in parallel with an Alsace style. - Wine & Spirits Magazine, February 2002.

Bright citrus and nectarine flavors. Very aromatic and pretty. - Laurie Daniel, San Jose Mercury News, August 29, 2001.

Amazingly bright pear, clove and gardenia aroma in a round, soft, and yet still crisp white wine. Nearly bone dry with rich blossom-y notes in the finish. To be released in November and not to be missed. - Dan Berger's Vintage Experiences, July 26, 2001.

For the first time, a white won the competition. It's the lean, vibrant and refreshing Navarro Vineyards 2000 Anderson Valley Pinot Gris, which shows with a crisp and angular fruitiness that this struggling Italian variety may have a future in California after all, especially when the grapes are grown in a cool area such as Mendocino County's Anderson Valley. - Sacramento Bee, August 22, 2001.

Navarro’s white wine vineyards were blessed in 2000 with a cool, late harvest- this pinot gris came in on the 20th of September. The modest, slowly maturing crop provided the sort of richness of an Alsace pinot gris that you rarely encounter in the grape from the Pacific coast, unless you open this bottle. It has that texture, and the fruit to fill it completely. You’ll find brown spices, nutmeg and mace adding complexity to the golden ripeness of the grapes. And to balance the almond paste density, there’s a brisk, saline acidity that keeps the wine racy. A great pour with choucroute while people-watching in Strasbourg or with knockwurst watching the Giants. - Joshua Greene, Wine & Spirits Magazine, February 2002.