Kfire Winery & Vineyard – Bertram, Texas

This hidden gem on the western side of US HWY 183 in Bertram is worth your wine trekking travel stop.  Owners Gail and Kenny Fowler opened their tasting room five years ago. Long time Texas wine fans might remember them from the Lakeway Winery at the Oasis. Retired firefighter, Kenny, developed the theme for the winery and the décor with firefighter paraphernalia such has a fire hydrant out front, and interior walls decorated with fire patches, helmets and even some firehoses curled up on the floor.  Not to mention that many of the wines’ names are firefighter related. Their grapes and juice are sourced from the Texas High Plains as well as from other areas across the state.  There is an A-to-Z selection from white, rosé, red, and sweet wines. On this visit, we started off with the two whites on the menu, both of which will help quench a very hot Texas summer thirst.  The Viognier is dry and crisp with a bit of oak on the nose.  The 2019 Engine 12 is a Rhone style blend of Viognier, Roussanne, and Marsanne. It is very well balanced and floral with some citrus notes and a bit of oak on the finish. The Rescue Rosé is Cinsault based and will fill your palate with fresh ripe strawberry and black currant flavors - a wine great to sip or pair with a variety of food options. For the reds, we started with the Engine 39. This red beast is a Barbera with rich cherry and blackberry notes and a hint of vanilla. The wine had good tannins and acids (should pair nicely with meaty pasta dishes). We tried the Cabernet Franc called The Specialist.  Cherry and plums dominated this red gem. Most everyone knows how dominant Tempranillo is in Texas wineries and the 2019 Ignite is their take on this Texas varietal. It is quite bold, with firm tannins, bright acids, and plum aromas with a bit of nut on the finish. Bring on your best ribeye with that monster!  For the sweet wines, check out the Cadet.  It has a rhubarb flavor with strawberry bouquet and makes a light sweet summer sipper.  For port lovers, they save the best for last with the Extinguisher.  Twelve years in the making (part barrel and bottle aged), this crown jewel is rich in pecan, caramel, and dried fruit. On the horizon, they should be releasing a Sangiovese in the future. With a very nice quiet setting in the country overlooking the vineyard, this is a good spot for chilling and sipping. Check them out when in the area or planning a wine outing and be on the lookout for their food wine dinners. Always a treat to find new wineries and tasting rooms, so explore and enjoy!

www.kfirewineryandvineyard.com