Duchman Family Winery – Driftwood, Texas

Founded in 2004, this Italian style winery in Texas is making good, affordable wines.  Some Texas wine lovers will remember this place as Mandola Winery, which has since been sold. (Not to worry though, the Mandola’s have a restaurant conveniently located next door.)  One will first notice the vast vineyards that have been planted at the estate with a wide variety of grapes.  The wine selection is well balanced between white and reds.   The majority of the wines are crafted in a dry style, yet there are a few sweeter and dessert wines available in the mix. The Montepulciano should not be missed! An upscale restaurant on the premises has one of the more unique views of the vineyard and the Hill Country.  When visiting, sit back under the oak trees at one of the picnic tables with your favorite bottle and enjoy this “piece of Italy” in Texas. “Salute!”

http://www.duchmanfamilywinery.com/

Raspberry Wine – NV; Landon Winery; McKinney, Texas

This refreshing fruit wine has just a touch a sweetness and a classic raspberry aroma.  The wine has a very fruit forward taste and though sweet, has an ample burst of berry flavor.  Can definitely enjoy this in place of dessert!  Since spring time tends to come early in Texas, this would make a great pre-summer time drink to help prep you for those dog days of summer.

http://www.landonwinery.com/

Spicewood Vineyards – Spicewood, Texas

Nestled in the woody area of Spicewood, Texas is an established winery making wine primarily from 100% Texas Hill Country grapes.  Spicewood Vineyards has changed ownership over the years, and has been increasing the number of vines on the property to further enhance their estate grown grape varietals.  With a balance of red and white wines, a wine lover can enjoy a good tasting session while also enjoying the lovely hill country landscape.  This winery continues the original owner’s traditions of making great wines from area grown grapes and is moving toward producing more Spanish style wines. Be looking for continued expansion in the types of varietals in their blends and offerings in the future. (They’re now more than just Merlot!)

www.spicewoodvineyards.com

Cabernet Sauvignon – 1999; Draper & Esquin Wine & Spirits; Ukiah, California

If you’re looking for an affordable fine wine to enjoy for a special occasion, then give this cabernet a try.  This well aged and mature wine packs a full bodied, bold, rich, deep flavor.  This wine is very fruit initially, followed by some of the more tannic and tobacco flavored notes. As you let it “aerate” more flavors develop and the bouquet unfolds.  Though there are tannins, they are not overpowering and they add a nice balance to the wine. Definitely worthy of buying more than one bottle to enjoy.

www.draperandesquin.com

Stone House Vineyards - Spicewood, Texas

Sitting high on a bluff overlooking part of Lake Travis is a winery producing some outstanding wines from an experienced Australian wine maker.  While most of the grapes are from Australia, the wine is produced in Texas.  There are also a number of vines planted on the property that should be producing some fine Texas grapes in future vintages.  The award winning Claros is one of the more exceptional wines that you should try as well as a fine selection of their premium reserve reds.  A rarity in Texas, this place is also where you will find an exceptional 50 year old based Tawny Port.  Yes, 50 years old!  With a deep burnt umber color and luxuriously warm, syrupy and nutty flavor, it is one of the richer and delightfully tasteful ports available in Texas.

http://www.stonehousevineyard.com/

Château La Gravière Bordeaux – 2009, Earl Vignobles Thérèse Winery, Saint-Genès-de-Lombaud

Spring time is an excellent opportunity to open and enjoy a good bottle of Bordeaux as the cool evening air begins to waft of flowers and fresh grass. This Bordeaux is a nice introduction to this style of wine.  The aroma is classic Bordeaux with a taste that encompasses moderate tannins without overpowering its rich earthy bouquet. There is a nicely balanced mélange of fruit flavor with the earthiness to keep one’s palate happy.  Keep this one in your cellar as it will continue to age well.

http://www.vinogusto.com/en/place/72027/winery-vignobles-therese-earl-

San Martiño Winery and Vineyard – Rockwall, Texas

Hello Spanish wine lovers!  This is your place to be!!  If you’ve been looking and craving for traditional Spanish wines, then San Martiño is the place to hang out.  Reds, reds, reds…you just can’t go wrong here!  The red wines are big, bold, and full-bodied delivering on flavor and aroma. Additionally, the wine menu is pretty extensive, so be prepared to study the menu as you select which options to try. We think you will be equally impressed. The only question you’ll have is how many cases can fit in your car!

www.sanmartinowinery.com