The Tasting Breakdown – Figure Skating Precision
This wine opens clean. Not loud. Not showy. Just focused.
Pear. Fresh apple. A little citrus snap. There’s a mineral line running through it that reminds me of cold Lake Michigan air in February — crisp, sharp, refreshing.
No heavy oak makeup. No overripe sweetness. It skates clean programs.
Mid-palate? Balanced. Not thin. Not syrupy. Acidity holds it upright like a speed skater coming out of a tight turn. That acidity is your medal moment. It keeps this wine food-friendly and Michigan-true.
Finish is dry and refreshing. Makes you want another sip. That’s always a good sign.
Olympic Comparison – Speed Skating vs. Snowboarding
Big California Pinot Gris often feels like snowboarding halfpipe. Flashy. Big air. Crowd noise.
Filkins is more Olympic speed skating. Measured. Technical. Built on repetition and control.
You don’t win medals by being wild. You win by being consistent.
That’s what this bottle does.
Value Check – Let’s Talk Scorecards
Regular price at $34.99?
I’d say solid, but you’re competing with serious international players at that tier — Alto Adige, Alsace, Oregon.
At $26.49 sale? That’s competitive.
At $23.84 if you buy six? That’s where it hits the podium.
For estate-grown Lake Michigan Shore fruit, that’s real value. Especially when you compare to comparable small-production whites from Oregon sitting $28–$35 right now.
If you’re building a case for summer or planning ahead for beach season in Grand Haven? Six bottles makes sense.
Pairing Playbook – Biathlon Strategy
You need balance. Like skiing and shooting.
Try it with:
- Grilled whitefish from Muskegon
- Your girlfriend’s garden zucchini boats
- Lemon chicken
- Shrimp tacos
- Soft goat cheese
The acidity cuts clean. The fruit doesn’t overpower. It plays team ball.
The Local Hero Factor
Filkins isn’t a billboard brand. They’re not buying Super Bowl ads.
They’re farming here. Betting on Michigan.
That matters.
When you buy this, you’re supporting:
- Local agriculture
- Michigan labor
- Regional identity
- Future vineyard plantings
That’s long-game strategy. Like investing in a youth hockey program and watching it grow.
Honest Critique
Is it revolutionary? No.
Is it overblown? No.
It’s precise. Clean. Michigan-authentic.
If you love high-alcohol, tropical, buttery whites — this isn’t that.
If you appreciate tension, acidity, and place-driven wine? You’ll respect it.
