Pinot Gris is quickly becoming the hot white grape in New Zealand, and this is a fine example. Ripe, honeyed pear and apple fruit provides plenty of weight, but there’s also crisp acidity to provide balance. Going by taste alone, it may have a touch of residual sugar to help round out the mouthfeel and counter the zesty acids, but the hint of sweetness will only make it partner even better with many Asian dishes.——J.C.(11/15/2003)—— 88