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Wine Recommendation
Mariposa Wine Company
2005 Carmichael "Grigio e Bianco"(Monterey County)
Carmichael has been around for more than 10 years and now resides under the umbrella of parent company Mariposa Wine Co., based in Madera, in California’s Central Valley.
The Carmichael philosophy is to create blends from Monterey based on Mediterranean grape varieties. In addition to this blend of primarily Pinot Grigio and Pinot Blanc (bianco) – hence the name – Carmichael produces two reds, Sa Vini (Sangiovese, Syrah, Cabernet Sauvignon and Grenache) and Sur le Pont (Syrah, Mourvedre, Carignane and Grenache).
The Grigio e Bianco is a blend of 45 percent Pinot Grigio, 43 percent Pinot Blanc, both of which are fermented in stainless steel, and 12 percent Chardonnay, fermented in older oak barrels. It’s a crisp, refreshing wine that’s a little flinty, with flavors of white stone fruit and almond paste. The winery suggests drinking this modestly priced white ($15) with lighter pasta dishes, fish or chicken. I think oysters would be a lovely match.
Reviewed October 24, 2006 by Laurie Daniel.
The Wine
Winery: Mariposa Wine Company |
The Reviewer
Laurie Daniel
Laurie Daniel, wine columnist for the San Jose Mercury News, has been reviewing wine for more than 10 years. She doesn’t use numbers, preferring to describe her recommended wines and let consumers decide for themselves. Laurie believes that bigger isn’t necessarily better; she’s partial to wines of balance, finesse and character. Her particular interests are Pinot Noir (versions that really taste like Pinot, that is) and aromatic whites like Sauvignon Blanc, Riesling and Gewürztraminer. |