COR Cellars Alba Cor Celilo Vineyard Gewurztraminer Pinot Gris 2014
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With hundreds of white grape varieties to choose from, winemakers have the freedom to create a virtually endless assortment of blended white wines. In many European regions, strict laws are in place determining the set of varieties that may be used in white wine blends, but in the New World, experimentation is permitted and encouraged. Blending can be utilized to enhance balance or create complexity, lending different layers of flavors and aromas. For example, a variety that creates a soft and full-bodied white wine blend, like Chardonnay, would do well combined with one that is more fragrant and naturally high in acidity. Sometimes small amounts of a particular variety are added to boost color or aromatics. Blending can take place before or after fermentation, with the latter, more popular option giving more control to the winemaker over the final qualities of the wine.
Straddling the Columbia River Gorge with vineyards in both Washington and Oregon, this 40 mile stretch of vineyards, starting about an hour drive east of the city of Portland, grows a wide variety of grapes, including everything from Syrah to Gewürztraminer.