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Tasting today is from Pikes Vintners of South Australia’s Clare Valley.

It’s becoming ever more popular to see a Pinot Grigio produced in Australia, and with the Clare Valley being renowned for its Rieslings, a close cousin of Pinot Grigio, it should not be a surprise that a good Pinot Grigio should come out of the Clare Valley.

Pikes 2005 is really not a Pinot Grigio, despite the label (if casually glanced) might lead one to believe. Beneath the large Pinot

Grigio print, there is a small note to the presence of 38% Sauvignon Blanc and 3% Semillon grapes, leaving us with 59% Pinot Grigio.

But that is ok. It’s a very pleasant menage d’trois.

The nose is fruity, but not sickly.
The palate shows subtle apricot/peach tones. A little acidity ensures it is well balanced and not at all too sweet. The mouth feel is soft.

Pikes 2005 Luccio Pinot Grigio was paired on this occasion with Italian sausage pasta. A nice combination.

I cannot recall where or what I paid for this bottle, so cannot state if I felt it was good value, but can certainly say it was well enjoyed.