Review: Wines of A to Z, 2021 Releases
A to Z Wineworks is one of the best-known producers of Oregon wines, and today we’re looking at three of their flagship releases, all dropping in 2021.
2020 A to Z Pinot Gris Oregon – Pinot gris doesn’t get fresher and more effusive than in this wine, a floral and fruity number that starts with bright applesauce notes then folds in silky coconut, vanilla custard, and lemon curd notes. Rounded and semisweet throughout, the lush finish is juicy and enduring. A to Z Pinot Gris is always an approachable and enjoyable wine, but the 2020 vintage shows off a depth of flavor that the wine doesn’t always have on tap. A- / $16
2020 A to Z Chardonnay Oregon – Reportedly America’s best-selling unoaked chardonnay, this vibrant bottling is full of lemon, pear, and applesauce notes, lightly spiced and quite creamy — though more acidic on the finish than the fruitier pinot gris. The lemon curd-infused finish hints at a sweet vanilla custard kick, though, again, this is driven exclusively by the grapes, not a barrel. A- / $16
2018 A to Z Pinot Noir Oregon – Straightforward with a somewhat gummy profile, this pinot noir presents itself as rather anonymous on the whole, offering restrained notes of cherry, rhubarb, and some baking spice on the back end. It’s slightly tart on the finish, but short of immersive and lacking in depth, showing gentle chocolate notes on the fade-out. Fair enough, but also fairly anonymous. B / $20
2020 A to Z Pinot Gris Oregon
$16
