2009 Bottega Vinaia Pinot Grigio

     I was grocery shopping without a real dinner plan (I had already picked up some Milanese-cut chicken breasts and zucchini) when I came upon the older lady that hands out the cheese samples. She knows that I will partake so she immediately handed me a napkin with cheese cubes and crackers. It was a Dutch garlic cheese and it was delicious. I was immediately inspired to make macaroni and cheese with it. My pantry is fairly well-stocked so I knew I had everything else I needed except a bottle of Pinot Grigio to go with my newborn dinner plan. I chose a bottle of 2009 Bottega Vinaia Pinot Grigio from Italy's Trentino region for $12.99.
     In the glass, this wine was a pale straw color with a watery rim. It had surprisingly intense aromas of green apple, peach and orange peel with a bit of a floral note of honeysuckle. It was nicely structured with medium body, medium alcohol (13% abv) and a zesty medium+ acidity. Its initial fresh apple and melon flavor ended with a lightly lingering, crisp citrus finish. It paired perfectly with the marinated grilled chicken and vegetables as well as with the creamy macaroni and cheese. We really enjoyed this wine; I think it would work well with a lot of different meals and, at this price, it is one that I will definitely keep in stock.