2021 Mari Vineyards 'Beastiary Ramato' Skin-Contact Pinot Grigio Old Mission Peninsula

While Ramato wines have become popular in recent years—notably reviving in the Friuli region of Italy, they actually represent ancient Georgian winemaking techniques that persisted until considered rustic against advancing technology. The term “orange wine” can be misleading, and many variations wax philosophical but lack joy. Not trying to make an art film that you have to talk yourself into liking, Winemaker Sean O’Keefe aimed to preserve and balance the joy of the fruit against a pleasing astringency.

Flavor Notes

Our third vintage of Bestiary Ramato, this unique wine captures your attention with tea-like notes and bright fruit flavor. Pinot Grigio, being a mutation of Pinot Noir, features hints of clove—a trait often overwhelmed by the red grape’s fruit. The Ambra, a blend of Malvasia Bianca, Tocai Friulano, and Sauvignon Blanc, brings pomegranate and tropical fruit flavor that meld perfectly with the Pinot Grigio. The final blend is reminiscent of a fruity steeped tea with delicate tannins.