King Estate Pinot Gris: A Refreshing Wine Discovery at Perry's Steakhouse in Vernon Hills
- Marshelle Sanders
- 1 day ago
- 3 min read
Some wines make a lasting impression from the very first sip. During a recent visit to Perry's Steakhouse & Grille in Vernon Hills, Illinois, I had the opportunity to experience King Estate Pinot Gris, a beautifully crafted white wine from Oregon's renowned Willamette Valley that perfectly demonstrates why the region has become a destination for world-class Pinot Gris.
King Estate Pinot Gris is celebrated for its vibrant, fruit-forward character and balanced structure. The wine opens with inviting aromas of bright citrus, ripe white peach, and delicate floral notes. On the palate, refreshing acidity is layered with crisp orchard fruit flavors, leading to a clean, lively finish that leaves you ready for another sip. It is elegant without being overwhelming, making it equally enjoyable for seasoned wine enthusiasts and those just beginning to explore white wines.
One of the qualities that makes King Estate Pinot Gris so memorable is its versatility. Its crisp acidity and refreshing finish allow it to pair effortlessly with seafood, seasonal vegetables, buttery sauces, and herb-forward dishes. Rather than competing with the food, the wine enhances every flavor, creating a balanced dining experience where each course complements the next.
To showcase the wine's versatility, Perry's Steakhouse paired it with a thoughtfully curated selection of dishes that highlighted its bright, refreshing profile.
The tasting began with Perry's Signature Fried Asparagus, a full appetizer featuring jumbo asparagus lightly coated in Italian breadcrumbs and flash-fried until golden. The dish is topped with generous portions of jumbo lump crab and finished with warm herb and garlic butter. Rich, savory, and full of texture, the appetizer found the perfect partner in the King Estate Pinot Gris.
The wine's citrus notes and crisp acidity balanced the buttery richness while enhancing the sweetness of the crab and the freshness of the asparagus, creating a refreshing finish after every bite.
The entrée featured Perry's Pan-Seared Sea Bass, marinated in cilantro oil before being pan-seared and butter-basted to a delicate, flaky finish. It was served with creamy corn, vibrant red pepper coulis, and garnished with cilantro oil and micro cilantro. This pairing showcased exactly why Pinot Gris has long been a favorite companion for seafood. The wine's bright acidity complemented the richness of the butter while its fruit-forward profile elevated the delicate flavor of the sea bass without overpowering it.
Another standout was the Spaghetti Squash Primavera, available as either a side dish or an entrée. Roasted spaghetti squash is combined with seasonal vegetables, sweet peas, and pine nuts before being finished with San Marzano marinara, fresh basil, and cracked pepper. The freshness of the vegetables paired beautifully with the lively citrus profile of the wine, resulting in a light, flavorful combination that would appeal to diners looking for a fresh seasonal option.
What stood out throughout the experience was the intentional approach to pairing. Guests can begin with the fried asparagus as a shareable appetizer before choosing either the sea bass or the primavera, creating a meal where every course is elevated by the wine. It served as a reminder that the right pairing can transform a great meal into a memorable dining experience.
While Perry's Steakhouse is widely recognized for its signature steaks, this tasting showcased another side of its culinary program—its ability to thoughtfully pair exceptional wines with fresh seafood and seasonal dishes.
King Estate Pinot Gris was more than just a beverage served alongside the meal; it became an essential part of the experience, bringing harmony, freshness, and balance to every course.
Whether you're discovering Oregon wines for the first time or adding a new favorite to your collection, King Estate Pinot Gris is a bottle worth exploring. Its approachable style, vibrant fruit profile, and crisp finish make it an excellent choice for seafood dinners, outdoor gatherings, celebrations, or simply enjoying a glass with good company.
Have you discovered a favorite wine pairing at Perry's Steakhouse or tried King Estate Pinot Gris? We'd love to hear about your experience.
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