The village of Corrales lies just north of Albuquerque on the western side of the Rio Grande. Currently, three wineries reside in the village with more coming. Each is unique, offering a different experience for the wine lover. Best of all, all three are within easy driving miles of each other.
This reporter recently took selections from each of these wineries while holding a wine class and tasting in Santa Fe for Road Scholar, formerly Elderhostel. The response to these wines was dramatic, the best showing and acceptance of wines over the three years this reporter has taught these classes. Because these are all value-based wines, each winery and the wine or wines tasted will be summarized here and in a follow-up article.
Milagro Vineyards
Milagro Vineyard’s motto is “handcrafted from vine to wine”. Believe it. Rick Hobson grows his own grapes at the winery and elsewhere in Corrales and Rio Rancho, leasing land or contracting for grapes that he personally supervises. Although this has been a tough year for all of New Mexico with sub-zero freezes and early bud break followed by freezing temperatures, Rick has all but sat up with his vines to keep them viable. That’s dedication. The results are what this reporter believes are the best wines in New Mexico.
Milagro Corrales White NV, Corrales, New Mexico $15.00
The Corrales White is a prime example. Most of Rich’s wines are aged in French oak for a year or more and aged in the bottle an additional year to permit the wine to come together.
Winemaker notes: A table wine blended from Sauvignon Blanc, Riesling and Chardonnay. Barrel aged with creamy texture, tangy acidity and flavors of melon, apple and pear.
Milagro Corrales Red NV, Corrales, New Mexico$16.00
This is a great deal. All of Milagro’s red wines are popular and outstanding. The single varietals of these grapes are featured in many fine local restaurants. Here one gets to sample them in one package and also discover Rich’s skill at blending.
Winemaker notes:An everyday table wine blended from Merlot, Syrah, Zinfandel and Cabernet Sauvignon. The wine exhibits aromas and flavors of red berries and currant with round texture and pleasing tannins. Aged for 10 months in French and American oak.
These wines sell fast, so contact the Hobsons for a tasting. Check out the website here.
Comments