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Style Magazine

The Vine

Dec 31, 2008 04:00PM ● By Super Admin

Domaines Astruc Carignan 2007
Jean Astruc, a carriage coachman in the mid 1800s in Limoux, France, had a dream to one day own a domain. His dream came true in 1862 when he purchased a small vineyard in nearby Malras. In 2003, friend and former co-worker, Jean-Claude Mas, owner of Les Domianes Paul Mas, purchased it. This Languedoc wine is 100 percent Carignan from old vines (over 60 years old). Carignan was once one of the most planted varieties in France, but gave way to less difficult varieties. Benefiting from the shelter of the Pyrenees Mountains and both Atlantic and Mediterranean breezes, this area provides just what the Carignan grape needs. Domaines Astruc Carignan 2007 shows just how Carignan, from old vines and a warm climate can produce great character and depth in a wine. Matured five months in American oak, this wine is rich, balanced and long in finish. It shows dark berry flavors, with hints of cocoa and a touch of vanilla. This is a delicious wine to serve with cold weather fare like stews and casseroles, rich meats, game and cheese.
Rick Mindermann
Rick is a 30-year veteran grocer with Corti Brothers in Sacramento,
 personal assistant to Darrell Corti,
and “The Good Taste Guy” for oodleboxtv.com.

For more wine reviews  from Local Connoisseurs, be sure to pick up this month's copy of Style-Folsom El Dorado Hills edition. Click on the "Get Your Copy" link on the bottom of this page for some of our newsstand locations. Or, to order a copy of this issue, please email Gloria Schroeder at [email protected], or call her at 916-988-9888 x116.