I love my job. What other profession would allow me to research wineries all over the US and hunt down great bottles of wine to taste and report back on? Allow me to introduce my latest organic find: Girasole Vineyards in Ukiah, CA.
Girasole has been around for quite awhile, planted by Charlie Barra in 1955. Working in the vineyards came naturally to Charlie, as to his immigrant parents from Piedmont, Italy. Girasoles wines are all certified organic by the California Certified Organic Farmers (CCOF).
Last night, I had the opportunity to taste both the Girasole Pinot Noir and the Pinot Blanc. Both blew my socks off! First the '08 Pinot Noir:
The '08 Pinot Noir is light ruby in color with complex aromas of sandalwood, cherry, vanilla, and roasted nuts. This light to medium-bodied wine exhibits richly spiced flavors wrapped around a core of fruit and sweet toasty oak. The soft, pleasant texture in the mouth offers flavors of cranberry and cherry fruit followed by roasted nuts, cedar and a hint of black licorice that all seem to be in harmony. A versatile food wine that pairs well with a variety of cuisines and is also a great sipper. I have to say it was truly fantastic!
The '09 Pinot Blanc was also quite a find. Pale straw in color, this wine has very pleasant aromas of light honeysuckle, lemon citrus and almond husk. You just want to keep on sipping to experience the creamy and silky mouthfeel. The citrusy flavors are soft and elegant, yet balanced with a crisp, clean finish. This wine was just excellent and very enjoyable.
Both wines retail for under $25/bottle and are very much worth searching for. If you can't find them in your local store, visit their online store to have some shipped to you!
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