The 2008 Pinot Grigio is one of the more delineated, crisp wines in this line up. A gorgeous, well-articulated bouquet leads to layers of expressive varietal fruit as the Pinot Grigio opens up in the glass. The finish is long, pure and refined. Anticipated maturity: 2009-2011. Gianni Menotti makes some of the richest, most fully-flavored wines readers will come across in Friuli. The entry-level 2008 whites appear to be excellent across the board, but it is the 2006 Merlot Graf de La Tour that steals the show among these new releases.Importer: Empson, USA, Alexandria, VA; tel. (703) 684-0900

This Pinot Grigio is distinguished by good structure and strong alcohol. The wine delivers aromas of stone fruit, lemon zest and honeydew melon and all this fruit freshness is backed by a smooth, warming texture.——M.L.(11/1/2010)—— 87