Tehuacana Creek Vineyards & Winery – Waco, Texas

This family owned winery located just outside of Waco produces Estate-grown Blanc du Bois, Norton, and Black Spanish varietals.  In addition to some good reds and whites, you’ll also find one of the more hard to find Roman style wines the Mulsum.  Made in the traditional white wine method, the Mulsum is sweetened with honey, but not as sweet as you would think.  A classic sweetish Glögg can be found here as well as the Norton based wines.  And oh yes, the self proclaimed first Central Texas produced Sherry wine, Flamenco, can be found here as well. Tastings are still free here and you should not overlook the garlic goat cheese that is also available for your enjoyment.

www.wacowinery.com

Bernhardt Winery – Plantersville, Texas

Who says “mom & pop” wineries can’t produce some quality wines?  If you think that’s true, then this place will set you straight!  This winery not only offers some high quality wines but also has a fun tasting experience.  The Pinnelli white wine is the perfect blend of Pinot Grigio and Muscat Canelli.  All of the reds - Cabernet Sauvignon, Valentine, and Crimson wines will leave your taste buds happy as they have depth and character one expects from rich reds. When you get to the ports, all we can say is “Oh wow!”  The port reserve and Tawny Port will make you believe in happy endings. With a Tuscan-style setting, you’ll want to enjoy a glass or two of your favorite selection for the rest of the evening.

www.bernhardtwinery.com

Spiced Apple Wine – NV; Chaddsford Winery; Chadds Ford, Pennsylvania

This apple wine can make a great refreshing summertime spritzer.  With hints of cinnamon flavor, you’ll feel cool and content on a hot summer day. This is a lovely semi-sweet wine, with a bit of apple crispness and a lovely blend of cinnamon spiciness to dazzle the palate. Save a bottle for the winter as a warm version is equally pleasing and delightful for holiday entertaining.

http://www.chaddsford.com/

Valley Mills Vineyards – Waco, Texas

This new and upcoming Texas winery is producing some excellent wines of the European varietals of France, Italy, and Spain.  The two reds currently available, BinNo1 and Mammoth, are bold and favorable.  BinNo1 has a bit more tobacco and smoky flavor, whereas Mammoth is a dry yet more fruitful blend. They should pair well with any red meat of your choice.  If you are a patient wine lover, then do let them sit in your cellar a while longer to enjoy one of those “wow” wines. This winery has been open to the public since November 2010 and is making a great start with Texan wines.  The winery also has a nice little gift shop and allows you to bring your own snacks to enjoy if you like with some of their wines in their cozy tasting room.

http://www.valleymillsvineyards.com/

Blanco Ducle – NV; Bernhardt Winery; Plantersville, Texas

Global warming, climate change, act of god….call it what you wish, but the heat of Hades has arrived!  What better way to combat the coming months of scorching hot weather than this nice chilled wine.  Made from the white native Muscadine grape, the hints of fruit and honey aroma make for a lovely smooth sweet white wine that is very refreshing during the ominous heat of summer.

www.bernhardtwinery.com