Where I live in DC, spring arrived very suddenly after a long and wild winter – one that could make anyone turn their attention to wines noted for freshness and verve. Pinot Grigio is certainly in that category, but it is also true that most renditions offer nothing but freshness, with almost no depth of flavor and no persistent and pleasing aftertaste. This wine has offered an exception in every vintage I’ve tasted for more than a decade. Although the 2025 vintage will presumably be arriving shortly, the 2024 still tastes exceptionally good, and may well be less expensive on account of tariffs. The fruit notes recall ripe Golden apples as well as autumn pears, with excellent palate weight that is balanced out by notable but not overly tart acidity. Kaltern is one of Alto Adige’s exceptional co-op wineries, and virtually everything they turn out is excellent in every vintage. Remember this producer.

Driven by green fruits like tart apple and under-ripe pear, this Pinot Grigio is bright and refreshing. The palate is crisp, with lively acidity and a crunchy finish that keeps it fresh and energetic, though slightly lean at the end. Pair it with a citrusy arugula salad or grilled seafood.

This heavily spiced Lagrein leaps out of the glass with aromas of black plum, tobacco, clove, white pepper and anise. The lush palate yields flavors of game, forest floor and macerated black cherries with a hint of cinnamon on the rounded finish.

Bright, medium yellow; delicate aromas of pear, apple and elderflowers. Medium-bodied, this is straightforward with good acidity, a clean, dry finish and nice harmony. This lacks complexity, but it a pleasant quaffer. Enjoy over the next 1-2 years.

The 2022 Alto Adige Pinot Grigio Soll (with 49,000 bottles made) is fresh, citrusy and mineral-driven. These are all the qualities you want in a northern Italian white wine at this price point. Soll offers soft freshness to help it grip to the palate with aromas of lemon leaf, honey and Williams pear.

This Pinot Grigio from Alto Adige opens with aromas of ripe pear, green apple, and a hint of citrus. On the palate, it presents a refreshing blend of orange and lemon peel and ripe orchard fruit flavors, balanced by a crisp acidity and a clean, mineral-infused finish.

Round orchard fruits take the lead, with a hint of melon adding a juicy touch. The texture is engaging, with a mineral edge that adds a lively contrast. A solid core of mixed fruits, reminiscent of a vibrant fruit salad, keeps the flavors dynamic, while a tart finish pops with energy.

Aromas of candied Bing cherries, cinnamon, and a hint of forest floor grace the nose. The palate reveals ripe red cherries and a touch of nutmeg, wrapped in fine, silky tannins. The fruit is polished and pristine, yielding an easy and forward wine that can be the go to wine for most any occasion.

Bright, medium deep purple; appealing aromas of black plum, blackberry, clove and purple orchid. Medium-bodied with impressive ripeness and typicity; medium-weight, round tannins, good acidity and a clean, nicely balanced finish. Enjoy now and over the next 2-4 years.

Sweet spices combine with almond custard and yellow apples as the 2022 Pinot Grigio Soll slowly opens in the glass. It's ripe in style with juicy acidity and crisp orchard fruits. This leaves a mineral tinge and the mouth watering as it finishes with medium length and a slight herbal tinge.

An exquisite white wine showcasing a balanced and elegant character with delightful citrus, orchard blossoms, and a touch of crisp green apples. The easy and fresh palate directly translates to a vibrant finish.

The 2022 Pinot Grigio opens with a rich blend of crushed yellow apples and gingery spice. This steps lightly, with supple textures and ripe pit fruits underscored by a sublet mineral tinge. Sour citrus combines with a salty flourish through the medium length and pleasantly fresh finale.