What to Buy
'07 CRU Montage Pinot Noir Floral aromatics, black cherry, cranberry, forest floor, mushroom $23.99
Carmichael Grigio e Bianco Lavender, lanolin, mango, sweet pea, lemon, floral $17.99
Carmichael Satisfaction Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon Dried cranberries, white pepper, dark currant, black licorice $39.99
Getting There
From Hwy 99, take Exit 162 for Ave. 20. Turn left on Rd. 21. |
Everything about Mariposa Wine Company is a celebration of place, including the location of its enjoyable tasting room in Madera, California. Situated just north of the historic township of Berenda on Highway 99, Mariposa provides an oasis for thirsty travelers on the long stretch of road from Fresno to Sacramento.
Bringing together a collection of premium California wines, Mariposa boasts a portfolio of three distinctive labels under one roof: CRU, a collection of cool coastal appellation Pinot Noir and Chardonnay; Carmichael, an upscale selection of Euro-styled blended wine compositions; and Yosemite View, rustic hand-hewn varietals that showcase the Sierra Foothills region.
Cru is a French term that identifies and classifies prestigious vineyards and the wines made from them. This ranking embodies the notion that each vineyard site has a unique indigenous style, also known as terroir.
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| Mariposa Wine Company understands the intricacies involved in attaining this rare level of distinction, and their CRU brand focuses exclusively on producing cool climate Chardonnay and Pinot Noir from California's coastal appellations. CRU represents a marriage of site typicity and winemaking skill that elevates their wines to a level of artistry not commonly found.
Consulting Winemaker Larry Brooks who is considered a master with both Chardonnay and Pinot Noir, began working with Mariposa in January 2009 and considers his consulting work on CRU to be a brilliant opportunity. "I've worked in the Central coast area for many years and have developed specific techniques or recipes that bring out the maximum flavor and quality in Chardonnay and Pinot Noir," Larry says. "I'm excited about the focus and commitment to quality Mariposa is giving its CRU brand." Larry and Winemaker Ken Post have also been busy working on the blending and flavor profiles of Mariposa's Carmichael bottlings, wines produced in handcrafted, high-quality, small production lots. The wines are structured for immediate drinkability, but can also be cellared for a number of years. "Blending is an 'art form' that I take particular pride in. Ken and I are working in tandem to make the best possible wines," Larry explains.
Mariposa Wine Company's location, just 15 minutes north of Fresno, gives Central Valley wine lovers an ideal escape. The beautifully decorated tasting room is staffed with warm, gracious, knowledgeable people who believe wine tasting should take time. The gift shop has an assortment of wine gifts along with fun local ware, including one-of-a-kind gifts and local delicacies like honey. The outdoor patio, gurgling fountain, and attractively landscaped grounds were designed with leisurely picnics in mind.
For those not planning to visit Madera anytime soon, Mariposa's wine club gives members exclusive access to the entire Mariposa Wine Company portfolio. Every three months, members receive an intriguing selection of three bottles delivered to their home. Membership is free and joining is as easy as visiting the winery's website. Mariposa's rather unique location in Madera gives those in the Fresno and Sacramento area—and those passing through—a convenient, stress-free spot to visit and enjoy distinctive California wines. And considering Mariposa Wine Company's commitment to brand quality and its future, visiting seems like a very rewarding thing to do.
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