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Review: R. Stuart & Co. 2012 Oregon Pinot Gris


Big Fire = everyday drinking.

Last summer I met winemaker Rob Stuart at his McMinnville, Oregon winery. It was a surprise to learn that I first enjoyed his wines more than 20 years ago when he was winemaker for a now defunct Washington winery - Staton Hills. When I first began to take wine seriously, Staton Hills was one of my favorite Washington wineries; and the winemaker too of course.

photo: Rob Stuart.

Rob and his partners founded R. Stuart & Co. in 2002; yes he continues to make delicious wines. It was a taste treat and a trip down memory lane sampling his Oregon wines last year. He and his lovely wife Maria were wonderful hosts.

Stop by their wine bar in McMinnville and enjoy Rob's Pinot Gris, his Pinot Noirs and his Rosé d’Or sparkling wine; they are all favorites now. 


Tasting Notes: R. Stuart & Co. 2012 Oregon Pinot Gris

Color: Pale Straw.
Nose: Wet rock, mineral, lychee, hint of sagebrush in bloom, almost cinnnamon.
Palate: Fresh, creamy, pear, almond, a gentle brightness on the tongue focused to the front, finishing with mandarin orange.

This was a very easy drinking white wine, almost delicate in structure. I envisioned a garden party with pitched white tents on a well groomed lawn; and many bottles of R. Stuart & Co. Pinot Gris poured by waiters in black tie. I also saw a sailboat moored in a secluded sunny cove, a driftwood fire on the beach, grilled dungeness crab and wild prawns, along with several bottles of R. Stuart & Co. Pinot Gris enjoyed by good friends. I like this wine. Recommended.

Closure: Screw Cap
ABV 13.2%
Sample provided by the winery
Winemaker: Rob Stuart, since 2002
Total Annual Production about 16,000 cases

R. Stuart & Co.
528 NE Third St.
McMinnville, Oregon
Phone: 866.472.8614
Winery is located in a converted Granary in downtown McMinnville, Oregon.
The Wine Bar is also in downtown McMinnville. Call 503/472-4477 for hours
www.rstuartandco.com

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