Riesling – 2023; Messina Hof Winery; Bryan, Texas

This 2023 Riesling, sourced from the Texas High Plains AVA, pours a delicate light yellow hue that catches the glass with a sunny glow. Off dry in style, it opens with inviting floral aromas and lively fruit notes that quickly brings citrus zest to your wine senses, followed by a touch of pear. Medium acidity keeps things energetic, giving the wine a tantalizing feeling. Well balanced, crisp, and pleasantly refreshing, this Riesling is a delightful treat that feels just right for warm weather sipping or an easygoing afternoon pour. Cheers!

www.messinahof.com

Estate Rose – 2023; Adega Vinho Winery; Stonewall, Texas

What a pleasure it is to have this Estate Rosé! Crafted from estate-grown Mourvèdre and Tempranillo fruit, this bad boy underwent full malolactic fermentation to yield a well rounded chilled glass of wine to savor. Nice floral sensations come out at first that lead to lots of cherry and strawberry notes, with a little bit of melon tucked in there for extra character. A good balance of acidity keeps everything lively and refreshing from start to finish, as well. It is definitely an all day wine affair to enjoy well. Cheers!

www.adegavinho.com

Mourvedre – 2016; Bending Branch Winery; Comfort, Texas

Sourced from the Texas High Plains AVA, this decade old Mourvèdre is drinking really well right now. The color has changed only slightly, while the fruit sensations still have a respectable presence, bringing inviting notes of strawberry and black cherry to each sip. Holding in at medium-bodied, it offers a great mouthfeel with wonderfully silky tannins that make each drink smooth and enjoyable. Cheers!

www.bendingbranchwinery.com

Syrah – 2017; Perissos Vineyard & Winery; Burnet, Texas

This vintage of Syrah is crafted from estate fruit of the Texas Hill Country AVA and blended with 93% Syrah and 7% Petite Sirah. Even after all these years, it still maintains a deep ruby red color and carries a bold feel in the glass. The wine is very smooth on the palate, with a touch of tobacco adding a bit of extra character to the overall experience. Cheers!

www.perissosvineyards.com

Sweet 16!

The magic 16 anniversary year has arrived, and Texas wine continues to show exciting momentum. Seems like Teroldego and Picpoul Blanc have been on the rise, while lesser-known varietals like Fiano are appearing and providing some pleasant surprises of their own. We pulled out a few classic “oldies” this past year that are aging quite nicely, offering even more proof that Texas wines can age well—especially a 2016 Picpoul Blanc that was a surprise standout winner. Looking ahead to year 17, keep an eye out for Petit Manseng, around-the-world comparisons on the horizon, and a resurgence of Texas Cabernet Franc making waves. With late Spring frost affecting some vineyards and hail sadly hitting a few favorites, it will be interesting to see how the second budding vintages play out for 2026. Here’s hoping the rains have ceased for the summer so 2026 can become another great Texas harvest. Cheers!

Albariño Reserve – 2023; Solaro Estate Winery; Dripping Springs, Texas

Harvested from the Texas High Plains AVA, this 2023 Albariño Reserve pours a pale straw color and opens with an enticing aromatic profile. Notes of peach and apricot lead the way, complemented by a touch of minerality that leads to a strong refreshing and balanced wine. It is one savory white wine to enjoy. Cheers!

www.solaroestate.com

Sangiovese Rosé – 2024; Kalasi Cellars; Fredericksburg, Texas

This 2024 Sangiovese Rosé from Kalasi Cellars is a fun and refreshing sipper made from their High Plains estate fruit at Narra Vineyards. Part of the Heritage Collection, it shows off a warm pink-orange color in the glass and brings enticing notes of cherry and strawberry right up front. With bright acidity and a clean, refreshing finish, this one is just right for kicking back on a warm day. Cheers!

www.kalasicellars.com