2023 Valli The Real McCoy Orange Pinot Gris, Central Otago

Valli The Real McCoy Orange Pinot Gris from Central Otago is an exciting and unique wine that pushes the boundaries of traditional Pinot Gris. Central Otago, known for its cool climate and dramatic landscapes, has become famous for producing high-quality Pinot Noir, but this Orange Pinot Gris from Valli showcases the region’s versatility and ability to produce exceptional white wines with real character. Valli Wines, led by winemaker Grant Taylor, is known for its commitment to producing wines that express both the terroir and the winemaker’s innovative approach.

The "Orange" in this wine’s name refers to the style of production, which involves skin contact during fermentation. This technique, which is often associated with “orange wines,” allows the juice to be in contact with the grape skins for an extended period of time, resulting in a wine with more texture, complexity, and a deeper, more intense color. The skin contact also extracts phenolics, which give the wine a slight tannin structure and earthy characteristics, making this Pinot Gris unlike any other you may have tried before.

The grapes for Valli The Real McCoy Orange Pinot Gris are hand-harvested from select vineyards in Central Otago, where the combination of warm days and cool nights allows for the development of ripe fruit with balanced acidity. After fermentation, the wine is aged in a mix of stainless steel and neutral oak, which helps to preserve its vibrant fruit while adding depth and complexity.

In the glass, Valli The Real McCoy Orange Pinot Gris has a rich, amber-hued color that reflects the extended skin contact. The nose is immediately expressive, with aromas of ripe pear, quince, and baked apple, layered with subtle spice, dried herbs, and a hint of orange peel. There’s a complexity and earthiness that comes from the skin contact, along with a touch of honey and floral notes that add intrigue.

On the palate, the wine is full-bodied and textured, with a round mouthfeel that’s typical of orange wines. The fruit flavors are vibrant, with pear and apple at the forefront, along with a touch of citrus zest and a subtle nuttiness. The tannins from the skin contact add a slight grip, giving the wine a bit of structure and making it feel more like a red wine in terms of mouthfeel. The finish is long and savory, with lingering flavors of citrus, spice, and a touch of earthiness, leaving you with a satisfying, complex aftertaste.

Valli The Real McCoy Orange Pinot Gris is a food-friendly wine that pairs beautifully with a wide range of dishes. Its texture and complexity make it a perfect match for rich, flavorful dishes like roast pork, grilled chicken, or roasted vegetables. It also works well with Asian-inspired dishes like Thai curry, sushi, or dim sum. The wine’s earthy and citrus notes also make it a great match for cheeses, particularly aged cheddar or Gruyère.