Monday, August 19, 2024

Peter’s Prairie Vineyard – Mason, Texas

This vineyard has been a well known source for a number of Texas wineries over the last 20 years.  Planted in 2000 and named after Major Joshua Peters, the history behind the prairie can be its own lengthy writing of itself. Fast forward to 2018 and you have Kim Henderson who gazed upon this land and the for sale sign, then realized dreams can come true. With her husband Curt, they have dived right into the world of Texas vineyards and the rest is still history in the making.

Many may remember their Mason courtyard tasting room that opened back in 2022. Now they have their own onsite estate tasting room that opened towards the end of June 2024. It is quite an amazing tasting facility that you should be on your “must do” check the box list. With high vaulted ceilings, a relic windmill, old vines, and comfy seating, there is much to sip and relax in there. But wait…there is also an outside patio for you to enjoy the gorgeous vineyard views and surrounding countryside. It is quite breath taking and you can see why Kim and Curt couldn’t say no to this place.

The estate vineyard has 12 acres planted of Nebbiolo, Pinot Grigio, Syrah, Zinfandel, Malbec, Albariño, and Malbec. They’ve taken the commitment to sustainable agriculture practices that will give life to this land for a long time to come as well as producing quality fruit.   They use a custom crush facility in Comfort to make their estate wines.

You’ll be quite impressed with the selection of wines they have.  All but the Tempranillo are estate wines, and all are Texas Hill Country AVA. Check out the 2022 Bubbly Syrah Rosé for starters. You get the best of a fine Rosé plus the classic sparkling sensation all in one with a touch of brut feel. If Rosé wine is your thing for the Texas 100 degree summers, then both the Mourvèdre and Syrah Rosé wines will add that refreshing chill factor for you. Peter’s Prairie has definitely helped put Pinot Grigio on the map for a go to Texas white. Their 2020 vintage has fresh fruit on the nose with hints of tropical notes.  A must start for the reds would be the 2020 Barbera. Barbera fans will be mesmerized by its light color, refreshing medium bodied texture, good red fruit notes, plus, it clocks in at 15.3 abv! Next up, are the Tempranillos. Do try to compare the 2019 and 2020 (assuming availability). Both are sourced from Tallent Vineyards in Mason County. With rich blackberry notes, good acids, and solid tannins, there is much anticipation as to which red meat you’ll pair with these. The Syrah has to be the star of the estate creations. As one of the oldest vines, you get a very rich flavor and smooth feeling from this red beast. You’ll be in for an extra special treat with the 2020 Chaparral Red. As a blend of Malbec and Barbera, its touch of sweetness feel along with fruit forward notes makes this a very enjoyable summer red wine.

The winery has a great team working there and will be more than happy to help you select the best sipper for you. Plus, with gorgeous views inside and out, you just might take up a semi residence here for your regular wine sipping days.  They’ve also done a great job at showing how well Mason County fruit thrives in the Texas wine industry. Cheers!


www.petersprairievineyard.com

No comments:

Post a Comment