Hot off the heels of our last Trader Joe’s bargain bin special comes an even cheaper Pinot Grigio.  Well at least 18% of it anyways.  The other 82% is Trebbiano, a widely planted neutral grape better known for Cognac.  Based on this, I went into the experience expecting the Pinot to dominate.  (Think of it like Taco Bell, 18% meat, 82% filler)

Now, typically a Pinot Grigio for under $3 scares the ever living piss out of me.  Actually, any wine under that price is typically something I expect to find in Walmart with about as much depth as Megan Fox’s character in the first two Transformers movies.   Sometimes that’s certainly the case, and with an innocuous wine like Pinot Grigio, it feels like the risk doubles.  Does Vola miss the pitfall moment and elevate itself?

Sight:  A bit golden, not much green.  On the lighter side.

Smell:  Hey there green apple.  Did you bring anyone else?  Oh, green apple skin?  Any other friends?  Red apple and starfruit.  This seems crunchy.

Sip:  Yes, there is green apple.  In fact, I’m sure that underneath the green apple, their might be some green apple skin.  Aside from that, expect lemon and some grapefruit. Smooth, crisp, more elegant than it has any right to be, with a moderate mouth feel, most likely thanks to the Trebbiano. [A.B.V. 12%]

Savor:  Did you want an aftertaste?  Well, there’s a bit of lemon, and that’s about all.

Overall,  Vola is actually pretty good.  It’s not overly complex, but what it is actually a straightforward drinking wine that you could serve with lighter summer fare.  It might even be great for a picnic or just by the pool.  Definitely try it if the opportunity presents itself.

Price: $2.99
Italy