Vintage: 2023
Appellation: Columbia Valley AVA, Washington State
Vineyards: Benches Vineyard, Lawrence Vineyard
Varietal: 100% Pinot Gris
Alcohol: 13.2% ABV
Residual Sugar: 0.4 g/L (Dry)
Total Acidity: 6.3 g/L
pH: 3.30
Closure: Screwcap
Production: 2,500 cases
Aging Potential: 2-3 years
Sourced from select vineyards in the Columbia Valley, primarily Benches Vineyard on the eastern slopes of the Cascade Mountains and Lawrence Vineyard in the Royal Slope AVA. These high-elevation sites (1,200-1,400 ft) benefit from warm days and cool nights that help maintain bright acidity while developing rich flavor profiles. The 2023 growing season in Washington featured moderate temperatures with minimal heat spikes, allowing for extended hang time and ideal ripening conditions. Soils are predominantly sandy loam with basalt deposits, providing excellent drainage and modest vigor.
Grapes were harvested in the cool early morning hours and immediately whole-cluster pressed to preserve fresh aromatics. The juice was cold settled for 48 hours before being racked to stainless steel tanks for fermentation at cool temperatures (55-58°F) using selected yeast strains that enhance varietal character. A small portion (15%) was fermented in neutral French oak barrels to add textural complexity. The wine spent 4 months on fine lees with periodic stirring before being blended, gently filtered, and bottled in early 2024 to capture its vibrant fruit character.
Appearance: Bright, clear pale straw with slight green reflections.
Nose: Expressive and aromatic with fresh pear, green apple, and white peach at the forefront. Secondary notes of lemon blossom, honeysuckle, and a hint of ginger add complexity. A subtle mineral undercurrent reflects the high-elevation vineyard sites.
Palate: Medium-bodied with a crisp, refreshing entry that leads to a round mid-palate. Flavors of Anjou pear, crisp nectarine, and Meyer lemon are balanced by mouthwatering acidity. The subtle barrel-fermented portion adds a whisper of creaminess and texture without obvious oak character. The finish is clean and persistent with lingering notes of citrus zest and wet stone minerality.
This versatile Pinot Gris pairs beautifully with Pacific Northwest cuisine, especially freshwater fish like trout or walleye with lemon and herbs. Also excellent with shellfish dishes including crab cakes, shrimp scampi, or clams in white wine sauce. The wine's bright acidity complements creamy cheeses and works well with light poultry dishes, summer salads, and Asian-inspired cuisine featuring ginger and citrus elements.
Nine Hats was founded in 2007 by Long Shadows Vintners, a collection of world-renowned winemakers who came together to create Washington wines of exceptional quality. The Nine Hats wines are crafted using fruit that doesn't make it into the Long Shadows flagship wines but still meets their exacting standards. The name "Nine Hats" refers to the nine renowned winemakers who have collaborated with Long Shadows founder Allen Shoup. Under the direction of director of winemaking Gilles Nicault, these wines offer exceptional quality at approachable price points.
Serve chilled between 45-48°F (7-9°C). While ready to enjoy upon release, this Pinot Gris will maintain its vibrant character for 2-3 years when properly stored.
