Wine of the Week: Willow Crest Yakima Valley Pinot Gris

Some wines you just want to sit and smell ad infinitum. But even with such a gorgeous, expressive floral/fruit nose, that would be a mistake with the Willow Crest Yakima Valley Pinot Gris ($15). This Washington white fairly assaults the palate with juicy, seriously tasty citrus and tropical fruit flavors, but there's plenty of acidic backbone to provide balance on the midpalate. The finish is somehow both dry and rich. The Minick family sells off most of the grapes from its 300 acres of vineyards, but obviously keeps some of the best for themselves. With spring on the way, this is not only a swell patio wine, but it also would pair well with fresh salads, with or without cheese or protein, as well as grilled chicken and Tex-Mex dishes.

Available at McDonald's, Old Vine Liquor, North Loop and 1010 Washington.

Bill Ward