Oregon produces great white wines

When most people think of Oregon wines, they tend to think of pinot noirs, but Oregon also has some wonderful pinot gris and rieslings.

So as a state, we've got something for the red wine lover as well as the white wine lover. The following are a few of our favorite pinot gris and reislings we've reviewed this past year.

RoxyAnn Winery 2007 Pinot Gris, $12. This is a delightfully vibrant, crisp and drinkable pinot gris with elegant flavors of green apple, pear, shortbread, honey and hay. This versatile wine is tasty enough to be sipped alone, but it also pairs well with pasta salads or pork roast.

Argyle Winery 2006 Willamette Valley Riesling, $25. The aromas is a vibrant mix of the tropical, the floral, and the tree fruit. The tropical really sticks out with all kinds of possibilities including guava, lychee, and guanabana aromas. The floral is dominated by a lovely West Indian lime blossom and honeysuckle. Finally, the tree fruit portion is dominated by fresh persimmon, pear, and nectar of peach. The flavor is racy yet juicy. Pay attention to the blend of mineral, citrus with ponzu, pear, and persimmon.

Bethel Heights Vineyard 2006 Pinot Gris Oregon, $16. Rich aromas of peach, apple, tropical fruits, hints of orange zest. On the palate citrus gives way to stone fruits, and firm acidity provides balance and a crisp, dry finish.

Chehalem 2007 Willamette Valley Pinot Gris, $19. Brilliant, light blonde, white gold color, with all things white in the aroma, from white spring flowers of daphne, gardenia, and citrus to hard Christmas candy, white peach, crisp pear, and white tea. There are spearmint, honey, and ambrosia hanging in the air and austere river rock, bright acidity, apricot, ginger, and golden plum complexity on the palate. The texture is broad and rich, rounded in the mid-palate, showing a borderline minor sweetness that turns on the salivation response. Ends with a spicy, tangy burst at the finish.

King Estates 2006 Riesling "Next," $12. Light, refreshing and drinkable, this Riesling has flavors of green apple, herbaceous notes and minerals. It is not a typical Riesling. Try it with a spicy dish.

Vitae Springs Vineyard 2007 Riesling, $20.25. Pink grapefruit, lemon, lime and pineapple fruit scents characterize this noble wine. These fruit notes continue onto the palate, then yield to the subtle flavors of Brazil nut and mineral.

Left Coast Cellars 2006 Pinot Gris, $15. Mouth-filling and opulent, the 2006 Pinot Gris simply waltzes on your tongue! Aromas of white truffle, honeydew melon and lychee greet before the wine finales in a caramelly smooth finish. With residual sugar of about 1%, this will please those looking for a sweeter wine. Perfect with with spicy Indian or Thai dishes.