County Line – 2018; Blackmon Wines; Mason, Texas

This is one of the earlier wines from Blackmon Wines, and this vintage red blend is still holding up quite nicely. Sourced from the Texas Hill Country AVA, this blend of 60% Malbec, 35% Merlot, and 5% Cabernet Sauvignon shows a garnet hue on that first pour, followed by raspberry and black pepper right up front. After that first sip, it has a nearly full body feel to it with notes of plum and cocoa coming through, complimented by good acidity and just the right lingering touch of tannins for that “ahhh” moment. Being very well crafted, this wine could keep aging for a few more years. Cheers!

www.blackmonwines.com

Cuvée de La Fourche – 2020 ; Calais Winery; Hye, Texas

This lively Carménère wine, sourced from the Texas High Plains AVA, has quite an inky appearance on that first pour followed by some enticing aromas. Dark berry fruits take the lead right away, joined by a little pepper, bright acidity, and just a touch of smoke to keep things interesting. Medium bodied and full of lively character, this is one of those Texas reds that feel worth every drop to savor. Cheers!

www.calaiswinery.com

Mourvedre – 2014; William Chris Vineyards; Hye, Texas

Have to say, this 12-year-old Texas Mourvèdre is both surprising and impressive. Sourced from Lost Draw Vineyards in the Texas High Plains AVA, it sits at 14.3% ABV and still has balance after all these years. Moderate cranberry and cherry notes remain, joined by a touch of blackberry. A hint of smoke leads into a lingering leather finish. This beauty is a strong example of both single-vineyard Mourvèdre and how well this varietal in Texas can age. Cheers!

www.williamchriswines.com

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