Thursday, December 27, 2012

Tempranillo – 2004; Stone House Vineyard; Spicewood, Texas

The lovely aromatic, bold flavored dry wine is just begging to be enjoyed with some juicy BBQ ribs!  The acidity is good, with moderate tannins, yet palatable to the all red wine lovers. The wine has a lovely depth to it and will compliment wild game, steaks and ribs nicely. You can swirl and watch the legs on the glass just for the enjoyment.  It has been difficult to keep this one in the cellar for so long and tempting to break out the cork screw earlier, but patience has paid off well.  The timing was perfect to open this bottle!

Saturday, December 15, 2012

Three Dudes Winery – San Marcos, Texas

Just to the east of the I-35 corridor in San Marcos, is a small winery nestled on the banks of the San Marcos River.  The Three Dudes winery has a unique location, so don’t be dissuaded by the trailers you initially see on the road. The name comes from the dudes that founded the place.  With grapes primarily sourced from Fort Stockton, Lubbock, and south of San Antonio (black Spanish grapes), there are about a half dozen wines you can try for tasting.   Their whites (Chenin Blanc and Texas White) are quite crisp and are perfect for those warmer days we tend to have in Texas “winters”.   Those looking for that sometimes hard to find white Zinfandel, make a note to stop in to taste theirs, as it is wonderful. You won’t be disappointed as it has all the flavors of a Zinfandel that you’ve come to appreciate.  The merlot is quite soft and easy drinking for all.  The Texas red is bit more peppery with a tart finish.  Their Black Texas port packs quite a punch, as well.  Keep this one handy for those rare arctic cold blasts in January.  Since our unofficial wine blog days, they’ve added a nice patio and mini-park that goes right up to the river.  They have picnic tables under a covered patio by the river and lots of seating outside next to the winery that is likewise covered, so you can enjoy a lovely sunset or midday break outside with friends and loved ones. Expect a non-traditional and laid back atmosphere when visiting and you will fit right in. Definitely worth a stop.


Wednesday, December 5, 2012

Raisin Wine – Comfort Cellars Winery; Comfort, Texas

This is good evening dessert wine that will help soothe your soul at the end of a busy or hectic day.  Don’t be fooled by the rosé color. A fruity aroma is a given, with a delightfully fresh fruit taste that is a little different than most wines. The raisin flavor is definitely there, but there seems to be a hint of port or sherry flavor, as well. This is a lovely wine that would make a great addition to the holiday parties and dessert tables. We’re thinking this would be good with some cheesecake.  May want to make a quick raid at La Madeleine and find out about that wine and dessert pairing! :)