Portal da Calçada Brut Cuvée Prestige – NV; Calcada Wines; Amarante, Portugal

From Portugal’s Vinho Verde wine region, this sparkling wine is a Loureiro and Arinto blend that pours a moderate yellow hue, with medium-to-fine bubbles rising in the glass. Pear and apple notes lead the way, accompanied by a slight citrus sensation. It comes across a bit softer on the Brut side, but still quite firm. Some creaminess is notable on subsequent sips, as well. This bubbly also expresses great acidity and that magical crisp moment to bring everything together for a pleasant finish. Saúde!

www.calcadawines.com

Arcadia – 2022; Pedernales Cellars; Stonewall, Texas

What an intriguing Niagara-led blend this is! Crafted from Texas High Plains fruit, this wine brings together 62% Niagara, 26% Roussanne, 7% Riesling, and 5% Viognier for one satisfying white wine blend. It has quite an expressive aromatic sensation that reveals lemon, melon, and a delicate touch of honey. Vibrant acidity lends a crisp, refreshing character from start to finish, so enjoy well on those infamous warm Fall Texas days. Cheers!

www.pedernalescellars.com

Mariposa del Alma – 2023; ReRooted 210; San Antonio, Texas

This heavenly red blend of 85% Tempranillo, 10% Touriga Nacional, and 5% Cabernet Sauvignon is served from the growler through the winery’s kegged wine system. The first pour delivers an appealing fruit sensation, with ripe berries inviting you to sip, savor, and relish each note. A touch of boldness and subtle leather adds character, while the slightly fuller medium body style, medium-plus acidity, and pleasing after-feel make for a satisfying finish. Cheers!

www.rerootedwine.com

Picpoul Blanc – 2023; French Connection Wines; Hye, Texas

Sourced from the Texas High Plains AVA, this lovely wine displays a touch of golden hue in the glass on that first pour to help set the tone. It opens with floral and citrus notes, followed by hints of apple and noticeable minerality. Excellent acidity keeps it lively, crisp, and wonderfully refreshing. Santé!

www.frenchconnectionhye.com

Mourvèdre Rosé - 2023; Elisa Christopher Wines; Johnson City, Texas

Crafted from Bingham Family Vineyards fruit of the Texas High Plains AVA, this Rosé wine received extended skin contact, lending the wine a deeper, more expressive hue. The nose opens with wild strawberries, layered with some citrus zest and a lovely floral lift. Vibrant acidity, a refreshing clean feel, and subtle minerality, gives this one a happy smile all day. Cheers!

www.elisachristopherwines.com

Captivating – 2023; Invention Vineyards; Fredericksburg, Texas

Crafted in a Bordeaux white style, this wine blends 81% Sauvignon Blanc with 19% Viognier sourced from the Texas High Plains AVA. A touch of yellow hue in the glass is your first pleasant sight that leads into an enticing floral aroma, followed by bright citrus and subtle minerality. Light to medium bodied, the wine is easy drinking and well balanced, with a soft, satisfying finish. Cheers!

www.heathfamilybrands.com/invention-vineyards

Cava Brut – NV; C.V.N.E; Alava, Spain

When Cava is in the house, it’s time to rejoice! This lively bubbly is a blend of 40% Xarel-lo, 30% Macabeo, and 30% Parellada. It pours a pale lemon color and brings fresh pear and apple notes, medium sized bubbles, and a light, crisp feel. With a medium body feel, bright acidity, and a refreshing finish, it’s an easy one to enjoy. ¡Salud!

www.cvne.com