Tasting takes off with "The Birdman"

“The Birdman” Pinot Grigio from Big House Wines made a soaring impression with Examiner’s Wine Tasting Panel.

“This wine has a very nice, subtle aroma with flowers and vanilla beans,” said one panelist at the blind tasting. “I get a lingering layer of stone fruit too.”

All were surprised at the low cost of the wine cask/box – $22 for 3L and $9.99 for 750ml bottle.

The 2010 wine is 100 percent Pinot Grigio from California.

“There is no mistaking this for a Chardonnay,” another remarked. “It is much milder and fruiter than a Sauvignon Blanc. I am shocked that it’s a box wine.”

Big House warden/winemaker Georgetta Dane said because of the long, cool year, the “inmates” were forced to wait until the grapes were ready to pick. This guaranteed that The Birdman is once again a plump avian, round and full and white unlike its Italian kin.

“This is the perfect ‘Bridal Brunch’ wine,” exclaimed another panelist as she looked at the opalescent varietal in the glass. “It would go deliciously with a grilled chicken salad with honeydew melon and iced mini cakes for dessert. I could make a serious impression if I served this wine.”

An attractive brunette said she caught an essence of kumquat and flavors of delicious sweet peaches and melon on the palate.

The five member panel had a final request: “Could we have another glass?”