It is as though a
piece of Mediterranean winery architecture has materialized along the 290 wine
corridor. The look and feel of the Hill Country’s newest winery is quite
breathtaking. In addition to the main tasting rooms, are fantastic villas
for overnight stays. The interior of the tasting room is quite
astonishing. There are large vaulted ceilings, a spacious tasting room
area, and smaller semi private tasting rooms. We think you’ll feel quite comfortable
during your wine sipping session. It certainly sets the mood for a great
experience. The Chase brothers (Mike, Chris, and Marc) opened their
business in December 2015. Just in time for the holidays! Long time
Texas wine fans are probably familiar with their winemaker, Russell Smith, who
was also the winemaker at Becker Vineyards from 1999 – 2012. Barons Creek
is definitely in good winemaking hands! Some of the wines are made on
site and some are made in California. Grapes are sourced from California
and Washington. You’ll have two flights to pick from for tasting.
So, if you come as a couple, that would be the best opportunity to try all of
them. Between the two flights, you’ll have about a dozen wines to
sample. Since we could write at length about each one, let’s focus on a
few that will definitely peak your interest. The 2014 Chardonnay from
Sonoma is a nice buttery and not too oaky white. Quite refreshing! You’ll
be astonished by the neon-pink 2014 Rose! It’s got come crispness and it's dry
for when it gets 80+ degrees in January. The 2013 Hippo is a co-fermented
blend of Grenache and Syrah. You’ll be very pleased with the smooth and
pleasant finish on this one. It’s a more than one bottle choice! Now
let’s talk Zin! While Texas Zinfandel grapes may currently be a challenge
for winemakers, look no further than Dry Creek Valley for this 2012 Zinfandel
wine. It has great acids, good dark fruit flavors and just dances across your
taste buds. Consider it another multiple bottle buy, so don’t walk out the door
second guessing yourself. The best red has to be the 2012 Le Baron. It
has everything you ever wanted to enjoy in a red blend. Mixed with Cabernet,
Malbec, Syrah, Barbera, you’ll savor the toasted oak aromas, appreciate its complex
flavors, gasp at its full bodied texture and best of all you’ll want to repeat
the everlasting long smooth finish. Yes, it is that good. Walk out with a
case of this one. But wait...there's more! One red wine surprise is in
store from winemaker Smith. His very own Montsant from Spain! This 60/40
blend of Carignan and Grenache is why great wine deserves to be savored.
You’ll pick out nutmeg, jam, and chocolate…oh my! With great body and a nice
lingering finish, you’ll pack away more bottles than you thought you
would. The lone Texas wine is Sweet Dreams which is a port-style wine
with good cherry and chocolate flavors. You’ll be quite pleased with your
wine tasting experience. The staff is quite knowledgeable, very friendly,
and easy to sip and chat with during your visit. Do stroll around the
grounds and admire the scenery. If you get a chance, check out the tower
that has great views of the property as well as the Pedernales Valley. Cheers!
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