Drink This Now: Zind-Humbrecht Pinot Gris Grand Cru Rangen de Thann 2008

With most of my friends and family falling into the "white wine only" camp, finding crisp wines for warm-weather is simple, but the transition to winter-appropriate bottles can be difficult. When it's cold outside, I'm no longer looking for a refreshing drink; rather, I want to sip something rich and warming. This year, my solution is a rich, full-bodied pinot gris from Alsace: Zind-Humbrecht's Pinot Gris Grand Cru is a mouthful, both in name and in flavor. The producer is certified biodynamic, and the grapes are grown atop volcanic soils, providing a bright, mineral backbone to the wine. With its round, ripe nose that hints of honey and walnut dust, a sip will richly coat your mouth, its sweetness brightened by a slight sensation of effervescence. Lovely with a range of dishes, I've particularly enjoyed it with richer foods like butternut squash ravioli or roasted quail with savory mushrooms.