When
one sees Robert Clay Vineyards (RCV) as the fruit source for a Texas wine, then
you know for sure exceptional quality is in store. For the few Texas wineries
that have had this fruit in their wines, you know what “damn good” is! Now with their own tasting room in Mason,
Texas, one can taste RCV wines and truly appreciate what greatness is. Mason County has been known as one of those
special unique places for Texas high quality grape growing within the Texas
Hill Country AVA. Originally planted in 1996 by Paul and Nancy Buist, Robert
Clay Vineyards (named after their two sons) sits within one of those ideal
microclimate locations for vineyards.
Located along Hickory Sandstone formation, the soil, climate, and 1700ft+
elevation have been ideal for key varieties.
During the “pioneer” days of Texas grape growing, The Buists planted 16
acres on their 50-acre land, most notably planting Touriga National. Dan McLaughlin came along in 2012 and assumed
caretaking that the vineyards badly needed. By cutting back the vines and
focusing on natural farming practices, the grapes being yielded are out of this
world. Dan added some more vinifera bringing
the vineyard sections up to about 20 acres. In addition to Touriga and the original
plantings, he is growing Chardonnay, Viognier, Barbera, Cabernet, Merlot, Mourvèdre,
Grenache, Syrah, and Tempranillo. Dan’s meticulous hands-on job is central to his
farming practices. That, along with
holistic and sustainable methods, nature has certainly rewarded his hard work
with incredible fruits of life. Dan uses
the same hands-on approach to his winemaking techniques. With quality fruit,
great wine will follow! Already sourced from the vineyard, the rest of the minimal
intervention approach to winemaking is just making sure that natural
fermentation and aging goes as it should. If you’ve been to some Mason events,
then you may have already been graced with tasting some of Dan’s wines. For the wines in the tasting room, you will
be treated with a fantastic selection.
The 2018 Chardonnay is proof that Texas can grow and make top quality
Chard! Blind taste if you need or pinch yourself if you think you’re dreaming,
but it is the real deal. For Rosés, both
the 2018 CGSM and Barbera are quite refreshing for those hot Texas summer and
fall days. Recently, a 2018 Barbera sparkling was released in a Rosé style
using Pet-Nat methods that is worth your bubbly sipping time. You may have already tried the 2015 Merlot at
Mason events and at a few “undisclosed” restaurants, but this three-year barrel
aged wine and over three years aged in the bottle is one you will cherish! The
2015 Sangiovese is the only one on the list not from the estate vineyards.
Sourced from Mandola Vineyards, this six-year barrel aged red wine has great
color depth, flavor intensity, and an end-to-end after taste that will
certainly make you crave more. There is
a 2016 vintage of Touriga National, a vintage that you can buy and perhaps
taste, as well. It is rich, bold and can easily be on par with many top-notch
wines produced from this grape. Additionally,
on the tasting menu is an RTM. Made from 75% Ruby Cabernet, 15% Touriga, and
10% Merlot, this 40-month French oak aged jewel has great balance, good acids,
and an exceptional fruit profile. There
is more to say about this place, but on-site experience is the best way to
enjoy. Time has already judged these wines to be setting the high bar and the
future looks very bright. Robert Clay Vineyards grapes and the wines are a true
labor of love in good hands with a dedicated focus on growing quality fruit and
crafting fabulous wines that express Mason County well!
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