Tasting - “Mirassou Monterey County Riesling”

Mirassou Monterey County Riesling label

Name: Mirassou Winery Monterey County California Riesling

Variety: 100% Riesling

Region: Monterey County, California

Country: USA

Year: 2012

Price: $7.99

Unfortunately, I searched for a review on the 2012 Riesling and could not find a reputable one, so I had to settle for what Mirassou currently has on their website about their 2010 Riesling. It has the same characteristics listed as on the 2012 label, so it may just be a typo online.

Winery Review: Our 2010 Mirassou California Riesling is soft and approachable with fruit-forward aromas and flavors of peach, apple, and citrus notes. As a result of the naturally firm acid levels, this wine is crisp and delicately structured and pairs beautifully with richly sauced poultry or seafood. Because of its inherent sweetness, it also pairs beautifully with desserts that have both rich and fruity elements.

As you can see in the bottom photo, I poured myself a tasting portion (I eyeballed the amount) and left room for swirling. We learned in class last week that you swirl the wine in order to coat the glass, warm the wine, and release the aroma. It's notable to point out that my glasses are stemless, but still have the traditional shape. I quite like them, but they wouldn't be ideal for white wine if you had to hold the glass the entire time, because your hand would warm the wine and whites are better chilled!

My Review: I thought it was tasty for the price, but not something I would buy again. First, I swirled the wine and then I sniffed. It has a very fruity, fresh scent with hints of lemon and spice. When I tasted the wine, my initial thought was that it wasn't sweet, which I found odd for a Riesling. Then I realized it is sweet at first, but overwhelmed by a slightly sour tang that lingers. I also tasted bright citrus and green apple flavors.

Since Riesling can often be paired with desserts, I decided to have a bite of chocolate and finish off my glass. I was hoping to taste something different and I did, but only slightly. In my opinion, pairing it with the chocolate lessened the sour note at the end and made it much more enjoyable afterwards.

My glass of Mirassou Riesling