We’re living in scary times. The economy is a seesaw, terrorism still looms and people are drinking way too much Pinot Grigio. With literally 100’s of white wine choices, it’s a little bewildering why people choose this one. American versions are usually watery bland or have a pukish acidity to them. I’m a huge fan of the theory that if you like a wine, it’s good. But there are just SO many better and more interesting white wines that I just don’t get the Pinot Grigio popularity thing. So I’ll blame it on Ramona.

“The Real Housewives of New York” (the show Ramona’s on, in case you don’t know) is all kinds of Wine Awesome this season. LuAnn’s dating a wine distributor, Kelly went to a wine speed dating event where she proclaimed the wine “smells like wine” (which I actually found hilarious), and Ramona has elevated her Grigio game to the next level: she is making her own.

She told LuAnn it’s from the Veneto region in Italy, because that’s what she was told is the best region for Pinot Grigio (I’d argue Alto Adige). LuAnn had to then correct her pronunciation of “Veneto” which was amazing, but Ramona did finally get it down so good for her. It sells for about $12 and I have no idea what it tastes like, but this press picture of her with the wine just slays me. I mean, the feather-shouldered dress…the staged pose…the Pinot of course. Unreal.

If you’re a Pinot Grigio drinker, let me suggest trying a Pinot Gris instead. It’s actually the same grape, just has a different name and is made differently in different places. A Pinot Gris from Alsace in France is a little fuller and less acidic. In Oregon, they make really yummy ones that are also fuller and peachy too. I’ve never been a Grigio girl, but Gris me any day.

I do, however, admire the balls on anyone who tells people to have their wine of choice on hand at a party. That’s a girl who knows what she likes to drink. Thumbs up, Ramona.