How
can one not do a wine trekking adventure in New Mexico without stopping at the
oldest winery in the state? This small family run winery in the Rio Embudo
Valley was founded by Michael and Patrick Johnson. Named after the original
site ranch meaning “stroke of luck”, they have transformed this ponderosa into
a top-notch wine producing winery. Vines were originally planted on the estate
in 1977 and the tasting room was opened in 1981. In addition, grapes are also
sourced from the Mimbres Valley near Deming, New Mexico. In 2020, the Johnsons
gave full winemaking reins to Katie Hagan who had been working there for a
while. Yes, that Katie from some of your favorite 90’s movies! She has made an
impressive list of wines to choose from and best of all, tastings are free!
With at least two dozen wines to choose from (or all of them), there will be a
style of wine for you to enjoy. Below was our selection for the day. First up,
was the 2021 Chardonnay. With just 3% Muscat in this one, notes of apples will
delight your wine senses for this light and crisp wine. The next white was the
2021 Winemakers Select. This blend of Vidal Blanc, Seyval Blanc, Chardonel,
Riesling, Pinot Grigio, and Viognier may pack a lot of different varieties, but
you’ll be pleased with the fruit forward sensation and mixed palate feel. There
is also a great apple wine on the list that you absolutely must try called
Embudo Blanco. With 10% field grapes added, you’ll be very pleased with the
fruit forward apple freshness and crisp texture of this fruit wine. For the
reds, we started off with the 2018 Winemakers Select. This 50/50 blend of
Shiraz and Ruby Cabernet has great pepper and raspberry notes along with some
smokiness and good tannins. Next up is the Rio Embudo red blend. This mix of
Leon Millot, DeChaunac, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Shiraz will envelop your
wine senses with berry aromas and a smooth mouthfeel. Getting into the bolder
reds, the 2020 Vintners’ Reserve is a blend of 30% Cabernet Sauvignon, 20% Ruby
Cabernet, 25% Tempranillo, and 25% Petite Sirah. What you get for this two year
American and Hungarian Oak aged blend are great cherry notes and a super dry
feel for you hard core red wine drinkers. Not to be left out, the 2019
Tempranillo also shines with delicious blackberry notes and leather. Petite
Sirah fans will be thrilled with the 2019 release. It punches you with rich
plums and a good tobacco feel with a bit more tannins than the previous reds.
Save their 2019 Cabernet Sauvignon for last and relish this old-world style
wine with cherries and vanilla to delight your palate. Fear not, port lovers
are not left out! First, try the 2019 Vino de Oro. This white dessert wine
beast from Muscat grapes is not only fortified with some fine Brandy but will
shine with a luscious mouthfeel and great mango and peach flavors. For the
finale, dive into the 2018 New Mexico Port. This fortified Ruby Cabernet
monster not only reflects its Hungarian oak aging but is also silky smooth. No
worries if you missed something during your tasting session, just come back,
try again, and don’t forget to retaste your favorites from the last time. You
will also be impressed with the lovely native designs on the labels too. Many
of these wines have taken top awards at several recognized wine competitions.
Currently in the works are a dry Rosé, Merlot, and a Gewurztraminer. Next time
you’re on your way up HWY 68 to Taos (or back from), take a quick detour
through Dixon and check out this winery. Cheers!
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