Slate Theory Winery – Fredericksburg, Texas

“That cave…oh, that wine cave!”  This will likely be one of the lasting first impressions you’ll have after visiting this place. Randy Jones, who also owns Slate Mill Wine Collective, has transformed the former Torre di Pietra location into something incredible. Many Texas wine trekkers up and down HWY 290 may have noticed the somewhat lengthy construction at the site. It has been a long time coming, but patience has paid off. The uniqueness and artistic quality of this new winery is certainly a one of kind. The original tasting room of Torre di Pietra has been transformed into an open free flowing concept and the 14+ acre vineyard in the back is still there. There are now some additional covered and open patio locations, a huge production facility and…And…AND a wine cave! It is definitely a real treat just to walk through, but yes, you can wine taste in cave, as well.  With huge arched ceilings, living walls (aka plants growing on it), and a lot of barrels aging future wines, this is certainly and place that can ease the mind and soothe the soul. To bring even more uniqueness to this winery is the theme of mental illness awareness. More like an effort to destigmatize some of the preconceived characterization of mental health. This effort is done very well with not only the label names of the wines, but also the surrounding artistry at the location. Speaking of the wines here, they are all 100% Texas sourced from estate locations Randy owns as well as partner vineyards. For the whites, there is a white blend called the Psychiatrist that has an elegant tropical like feel to it. Yes, they do have a Roussanne! This 2020 High Plains sourced fruit has a touch of vanilla and fresh ripe fruit notes. To make their “stamp” on Texas Rosés is an incredible crisp and dry 2020 Cinault. For the reds, start off with The Narcoleptic, 2017. This Syrah/Grenacne/Mourvedre blend has a touch of earthiness and rich cherry flavors. Next up is The Paranoid, 2018. With 80% Souzao and 20% Aglianico, you’ll pick up on notes of vanilla with mature dark fruit. Did someone say Malbec? Their 2017 release packs some intense berry flavors with notes of pepper. In winery’s own take of a Bordeaux-style wine, The Schizophrenic takes the show! This 2017 release is very well balanced, end-to-end mouthfeel, a hint of leather, and some fine lingering tannins. You can be the judge if it’s “left or right bank” material. The warm and family-oriented hospitality here will make you feel more than welcomed to come back again. This is truly a unique Texas winery with a focused and much needed goal on mind and soul, plus great wine! Allora, cin cin ragazzi, alla vostra salute!

www.slatetheory.com