|
|
Wine Recommendation
Mirassou Vineyards
2005 Riesling(Monterey County)
For a long time, the Mirassou family laid claim to the title of “America’s oldest winemaking family.” Indeed, the family traces its winemaking history to Pierre Pellier, who arrived in the Santa Clara Valley from France in the 1850s. Although wine production was based in San Jose, the Mirassous, in 1961, developed the first commercial vineyard in Monterey County, near Soledad. But the Mirassou name was sold to E&J Gallo in 2002, and the old winery in San Jose has since been closed.
Under Gallo, the Mirassou brand continues to include some Monterey wines, including this Riesling. The wine is just off-dry and a little spritzy, with flavors of peach, lime, mineral and a hint of smoke. Firm acidity balances the sweetness and makes the wine very refreshing. Small amounts of Pinot Grigio, Viognier and Gewürztraminer in the blend add some floral and spicy notes to the wine. This Riesling would be a good choice to drink with spicy Thai or Chinese food, or it would make a fine aperitif. And, like all the current Mirassou wines, it’s affordably priced – in this case, $12.
Reviewed January 9, 2007 by Laurie Daniel.
Other reviewed wines from Mirassou Vineyards
The Wine
Winery: Mirassou Vineyards |
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. |