The History of Carignane Wine

Therese Vineyards Dos Anos Carignane

Carignane grapes originally were grown in the small village of Carinena in the community of Aragon, Spain. Today, this beautiful red-skinned grape is the most widely-planted grape in France. Up until the late 1970's, Carignane grapes were one of the most heavily planted grapes in the Central Valley of California. Many of these older Central Valley vineyards have been replaced with different variatials, and Carignane has made a comeback as a delicious, aromatic and velvety wine.

The Martin Ranch produces a fantastic Carignane under the Therese Vineyards label. This Carignane is called Dos Anos (a blend of two vintages) 2007/2008 and is 100% Carignane. The fruit is grown by the Blake Family vineyards in Corralitos and comes from ancestral vines that are over 100 years old. The nose begins with bright fruit, and on the first sip you experience raspberry and bramble-berry. The middle shows a hint of white pepper and this smooth drinking wine finishes with subtle oak tannins. This wine is perfect with all Italian dishes. Enjoy this video that shows Dan & Therese Martin sharing their tasting notes in the Winemakers Tasting Table video series. 

Denim to Diamonds Gala Benefit

The Martin Ranch Winery team got dressed up to pour their wines at the Denim to Diamonds benefit gala on Saturday evening. Proceeds from the event went to the Ronald McDonald House at Stanford. There was live music, an auction, Monte Carlo style blackjack and a fabulous sit down dinner. As you can see, Dan, Therese, Jackie and Fred enjoyed being a part of this important benefit evening. 

Come out to the Martin Ranch Winery on the 3rd weekend of the Month, when the Winery is open to the public and wine club members. We always look forward to seeing you!