The Book: After a brief, yet transformative, encounter with a giant Pacific octopus named Athena, naturalist Sy Montgomery sets off on a quest to better understand these clever creatures. She befriends more octopuses at the New England Aquarium – Octavia, Kali, and Karma – and learns to scuba dive. Montgomery discovers “a new way of thinking about thinking,” and along the way, experiences how an animal so unlike ourselves can bring people closer together.

The Wine: An unconventional red wine made from 100% Pinot Gris grown in Oregon’s Willamette Valley. Old vines, cool vineyard sites, dry farming, and wild yeast contribute to a sense of place. Juicy and refreshing. Grippy tannic structure. Tart and red cherries, ripe strawberry, fruit punch, blood orange juice and peel, crushed gravel, with a hint of spice. 12.81% ABV. Serve chilled or at room temperature.

Why it works: Expressive and full of personality, this wine channels the spirit of Montgomery’s octopuses. Grippy tannins evoke the pull of their arms, while aromatic and flavor intensity hints at how it might feel to “commune” with a wild animal. Both Montgomery and winemaker Barnaby Tuttle approach nature with curiosity, respect, and a desire to immerse themselves in its mysteries.