After missing out on a 2007 vintage through the impact of bushfires, one of Australia’s favourite Pinot Grigios has made a welcome return to shelves around the country.

Brown Brothers was one of the early pioneers of Pinot Grigio in Australia, having produced its first vintage in 1994 and is now one of the country’s most purchased Pinot Grigios in the category.

“The secret to this wine’s success is our decision to concentrate our plantings in our cool climate vineyards at Whitlands and Banksdale,” said Brown Brothers CEO Ross Brown.

“We don’t believe that growing Pinot Grigio in warmer areas does the wine any favours at all, as the fruit really needs cool ripening conditions to bring out all of the acidity and minerality that this wine should be showing when at its best.”

The family-owned company has invested a lot of time talking with wine makers in the wine’s spiritual home in North Eastern Italy, and found that many of the region’s distinctive climatic conditions could be replicated at its high altitude vineyards in the King Valley.

“At around 800 metres for Whitlands (one if the highest in Australia) and 485 metres for Banksdale, these vineyards are now producing fruit of remarkable quality and I’m pleased to report that this 2008 Pinot Grigio is amongst the best we’ve ever produced,” added Ross.

Brown Brothers 2008 Pinot Grigio boasts fresh aromas of citrus and pear, while the palate offers some distinct savoury characters and a crisp finish full of delicate acidity thanks to the cool climate fruit.  Unlike the French style Pinot Gris – made from the same grape but generally more rich and full on the palate, Pinot Grigio is crisp, fresh and savoury.

Try this wine with smoked trout ravioli topped with an extra virgin olive oil infused with capers and crispy pancetta, or as a great match to an antipasto platter containing artichokes, olives, asparagus and prosciutto.  

Brown Brothers 2008 Pinot Grigio is widely distributed throughout Australia. RRP $18.00.

For media information, images and interviews please contact Scott Darkin on 03 5720 5467 or spdarkin@brownbrothers.com.au