I've been following Attems Pinot Grigio (non-Ramato) for over a decade. It is always strikingly good, true to variety and place and well-distributed. For so many reasons, it is an easy-to-recommend wine in this country, where distribution is highly unpredictable.

So, I was deeply interested in the chance to taste the Ramato, or copper, wine, which is made as a skin-contact rosé. It has been produced for years, but it has somehow evaded my glass. Not so this year, and thank goodness for that! At the same time, I was happy to refresh my acquaintances with the latest releases of Pinot Grigio and Sauvignon Blanc. All very enticing wines, Attems remains an excellent go-to winery. 

Now, make haste and find some of the 2020 Pinot Grigio Ramato! 

89*
Attems 2020 Pinot Grigio Ramato 12.5% $20
The Attems Pinot Grigio Ramato is deeply flavorful and notably spicy. While a pale, ballet-slipper pink in color, this is no wallflower. Aside from the enticing aromatics, there are some geeky structural elements, too. The acidity is supremely well-integrated and the lightly viscous texture makes the wine glide across the palate. Mild tannins give this rosé additional, structural vigor. The aromas and flavors range from tomato leaf to rhubarb to tangerine peel. Incredibly unique and distinctly fresh, this is so, so delicious and easy-to-finish by any standard.
Drink: 2021-22 

89
Attems 2020 Pinot Grigio 12.5% $20
This is a flavorful Pinot Grigio with impressively floral top notes. Starting with aromas of lime pith and peach peel, the palate segues into a compelling mix of citrus fruits, heather and spicy ginger. Medium in body despite only 12.5% abv, there is a pleasant roundness that hints at the portion that was fermented and aged in barrel. Lifting and refreshing acidity carry this dry wine into the rather substantial finish of yellow apple and lingering hints of fennel/anise. Truly lovely.
Drink: 2021-22

87
Attems 2019 Sauvignon Blanc 12.5% $20
This is a light and breezy Sauvignon Blanc with ample citrus notes of pomelo, yellow grapefruit and Meyer lemon. Plus, there's a very compelling flinty, chalky note that starts on the nose and persists through the moderate, lightly dry and granular finish. A whisper of glycerol on the mid-palate nicely counterbalances the zippy acidity. Elegant and without the sometimes polarizing herbal tones of lower alcohol Sauvignon Blancs, this white wine should make many friends.
Drink: 2021-22