What to serve with artichokes

[joeybishop1]

I want to start by saying that after I found this amazing Forum I have spent HOURS reading the entries that have been posted. I am a “weekend gourmet” that has enjoyed experimenting with new recipes for sometime now. I have been very frustrated when a recipe calls for “white wine”, giving no suggestions. As you might note, I live in Santa Maria, CA – in the heart of the Central Valley wine region and know nothing about wine. Recently our local community college has begun to offer a food and wine pairing class that I, along with a few friends, attended (featuring wines of Santa Barbara county). I am really excited about learning what wines to serve with a particular dish.

Our small group has decided to put together a tasting menu so that we can enjoy the experiences of our new knowledge. I have a recipe that I would like to include, but I need your help. The dish is called “Sautéed Shrimp with Orange Dust”. (The orange dust is finely ground dried orange peel). It is served over artichoke hearts simmered in “white wine”. After taking the class, I would have (based on very limited knowledge) gone with a Sauvignon Blanc, but after reading all of your responses, a Pinot Gris sounds like it would be more appropriate. I am looking, of course, for suggestions from the Central Coast for my first attempt.

Thank you in advance for your time and help.