This light red wine is
well-suited for summer enjoyment. Sourced from Farmhouse Vineyard in the Texas
High Plains AVA, it features low tannin and offers ripe red berry notes,
creating a pleasant wine sensory experience. For optimal appreciation, serve
chilled to accentuate its cranberry profile as well. This wine selection
provides some fine satisfaction throughout the day. Santé!
Blackmon Ranch, located in Mason County within the Texas
Hill Country AVA, has been growing some incredible wines for a very long while.
This estate crafted blend of Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon stands out as a bold
red wine to enjoy. This robust wine is best enjoyed after decanting for a good
hour, allowing its excellent balance between tannins and acidity to shine. On
the nose, you'll find enticing berry aromas, while on the palate, blackberry
and blueberry flavors dance together, creating a memorable tasting experience.
Cheers!
This classic French white wine shows off quite well the
power of the Texas Hill Country AVA, and hopefully one day Hickory Sands AVA.
This Mason Country grown fruit holds up nicely with inviting notes of apples
and peaches, complemented by subtle hints of flower aromatic sensations. The
wine has a light-tinted golden hue to entice your visual wine sipping
experience, as well. It is a bit lighter body than previous vintages from the
winery but still holds up well to its well known elegant character. Cheers!
Located just off the Old San
Antonio Road near Fredericksburg, one of the newest wineries has joined the
Texas Hill Country family. This venture has been a longtime dream realized for
owners Mike and Rosann Mitrione, who went from tinkering with the idea, to
planning, to developing, and now truly living their dream. Their first vineyard
was established in the Texas High Plains in 2018, where they planted around 15
varietals across 27 acres. In 2021, they began designing and planning their new
38-acre Texas Hill Country vineyard. They started planting their estate
vineyard in 2022 and have now expanded to 9 acres of vines including Albariño,
Petite Sirah, Montepulciano, Syrah, and Aglianico. Since opening to the public
in summer of 2023, they’ve maintained a steadfast commitment to producing
quality 100% Texas wines and delivering an exceptional customer experience. When
you enter the tasting room, you will immediately notice the impressive Texas
granite structure adorned with a symbol that reflects the Ross family’s core
values: Faith, Family, Friends, and Fellowship. The two-story, eco-friendly
tasting facility is semi-circular and built into the hillside – reminiscent of
a piazza in Italy. It has an upscale vibe, high-end design, and comfort in mind
lending to its artistic flair. Facing east, the tasting room stays cooler both
inside and out, enhancing the guest experience. Another notable feature are the
large tables made from old pecan wood, repurposed from trees found right on the
property.
Well known Texas winemaker Tim Drake has been assisting in
the crafting of some very fine wine from Texas grapes here. Most of the focus
has been primarily on Italian style wines which reflects the owner’s wine
travels. Most grapes are sourced from the High Plains vineyard estate with some
future Hill Country estate wines to come. First to sample was the 2023
Sauvignon Blanc which is sourced from the estate vineyard in the Texas High
Plains AVA. Citrus and melons will be the first notes to light up your wine
palate followed by zesty acidity and a refreshing feel. The second white wine sampled
was the 2023 Bisaccia. This Italian style blend, named after Michael’s
grandfather’s Italian town that he came from, was crafted with 57% Trebbiano,
39% Albariño,
and 4% Pinot Grigio. It is dry and you will pick up on the dried apricot and
minerality in addition to the clean crispness of this wine. An extra white wine
treat was the Windswept. This Rhone style blend (yes, departure from the
Italian theme, but that’s ok) is a blend of 52% Viognier and 48% Roussanne. It
is a lovely lighter Rhone style wine with buttery notes, a tango between
apricot and pear, and a hint of minerality. Moving to the Rosé wines, the first
to sample was the 2024 Sangiovese Rosé. This was also sourced from the estate
High Plains vineyard. It had a pink colored hue with notes of watermelon and
strawberry coupled with good acids and balanced minerality. It also had more of
a Provence style feel to it for an added pleasant surprise. The next Rosé wine
sipped was the 2024 Vega. It is Malbec based with some raspberry notes and a
nice soft and refreshing feel. Moving into the reds, the first to sample was
the 2023 Grenache. This pizza lovers red wine was aged in Russian oak (yes, for
real), exhibited a deep brick rusty color, lots of good fruit forwardness and a
touch of smoke. Serve that one a bit chilled. Next, was the 2022 Piazza Rossa.
This super Tuscan style wine has 67% Sangiovese, 22% Cabernet Sauvignon, and
11% Merlot. To say it has a big nose is an understatement, but you will also be
impressed by its deep dark color, notes of fig, pecan, and jam. Plus, that
14.8% abv shows off those legs quite well. Plus, the finish is to die for! Saving
the best for last red to sip, was the 2022 Envisage. This right bank Bordeaux
style wine (yes, not exactly Italian, but still great) was carefully crafted
with 46% Merlot, 38% Cabernet Sauvignon, and 16% Malbec. It has nice rich dark
fruit, some baking spices, good tannins and acidity, and a smooth finish.
Overall, it was a very fine and enjoyable tasting session with everything being
spot on.
When dreams are realized, magic happens. You can see this not only in the quality wines produced, but the tasting room design, décor, and cool vibes. Speaking of pizza wine mentioned previously, there is a food truck on site that will whip up some good eats for you to pair with your favorite wine. You will experience great hospitality here as well. The team is very professional, knowledgeable, and attentive to help ensure you have the tasting experience you desire. You will feel well cared for and comfortable here and will want to return. Simply fabulous! Cheers!
This lovely crafted Sparkling Rosé of Sangiovese, sourced
from Narra Vineyards in the Texas High Plains AVA, features some lively characteristics.
Having been fermentation in the bottle adds some extra bubbly “umph” to this
treat along with intense notes of strawberries and cherries. It shows off a
beautiful darker color than what you might get with most sparkling Rosé wines
with acidity clocking in at about medium, along with a fair amount of
minerality. It’s a great one to highlight at a party. Cheers!
Harvested from Moonlight Vineyards of the Texas High Plains
AVA, the wine presents a light ruby red color on the first pour that
immediately catches the eye. Notes of raisins and tobacco mingle with hints of
strawberry, creating an enticing layered experience. This medium-bodied wine
offers a good balance of tannins and acidity, contributing to its pleasing
palate sensation. As it continues to age, the wine maintains its integrity and
shows impressive development, promising even greater enjoyment with time.
Cheers!
This Blanc de Blancs is crafted primarily from Chardonnay
with just an every so slight dash of Pinot Blanc. It shows off a medium straw
hue in the glass right along with medium bubbles everywhere. It is dry and
crisp with an elegant structure, delivering bright notes of melon followed by
apples and pears. There might be a touch of caramel in there as well upon the
second sipping and will then unfold more tantalizing flavors to keep your wine
senses happy. It’s one sophisticated and
lively to have. Cheers!
Coming in at a whopping 16.5 abv (yes, 16.5!), this Texas
Petite Sirah is quite bold and still packs in some good flavor for being just
over a decade old. Crafted from grapes grown at
Newsom Vineyard in the Texas High Plains AVA, the wine continues to reflect the
vineyard’s quality fruit. Not
much color has changed in this full bodied red wine as it still pours a good
solid purple hue and will wake up your wine senses with some fruity aromas.
What stands out now are notes of cherry and caramel with a little bit of
current. It still holds up as a lovely smooth wine and reveals subtle espressos
upon subsequent sipping. The high alcohol content is integrated quite well and
is a nod to the quality craftsmanship. The
smooth finish lingers beautifully, making each sip worth savoring.
Cheers!
Behold! The mighty Italian Teroldego. Cultivated in the Vigneti
delle Dolomiti wine region, this bold red wine is not for faint of heart. Do
let this beast aerate for a good long
while before your first sample sip. It pours a magenta like color followed by
notes of cherries and raspberries. You’ll pick up on two things right away:
high acidity and firm tannins. If you pass that taste “test”, then you’re on to
something very enjoyable. It comes across as full bodied upon further tasting
with some secondary notes of blueberries emerging. Nothing less than a full on
fatty protein dish is demanded for this heavy weight wine. Once you’ve sipped
and feasted, give yourself a pat on the back…you’re now a serious red wine
lover. Cin Cin!
For a six year old Grenache, this wine varietal has been holding up quite well. Clocking in at 14.8 abv, this mighty wine expresses pronounced red fruit notes for an impressive first try. Harvested from Desert Willow Vineyard of the Texas High Plains AVA, it pours a rustic pale color with prominent cranberry aromas. Take a sip or two and you’ll also pick up on some nuances of pepper and balanced acidity for this medium bodied treat. The finish is excellent with a touch of cloves for tease. You’ll savor this one for sure all day. Cheers!
Nestled along a scenic back road between Stonewall and
Blanco in the Texas Hill Country, a boutique winery sits perched on the
hillside, offering breathtaking views of the Blanco valley. Originally part of
the Circle H ranch, it is a great local spot with a laid-back vibe, perfect for
those seeking authentic Hill Country charm. Owned by Kara Cleaver, who
developed an interest in wines during her 30s and eventually decided to embark
on this new adventure, the winery has been open since 2021. Kara has collaborated
with experienced winemakers to craft her exceptional wines, each themed around
the unique stories of the land from which they originated. The winery places a
strong emphasis on sustainable practices, from grape growing to winemaking, and
remains actively involved in local Blanco community events.
The tasting room has a cozy feel inside and is built from
repurposed and recycled materials, not to mention (again) the great views one
can enjoy from the hilltop vantage point. There is a patio on the back and side
of the space and ample outdoor seating with tables for folks to enjoy. There are
several wines to select from on the menu. So, no matter what your fancy is,
there is probably something on the menu you can find that suits you. For this
visit, six of the wines were sampled. The first was the 2023 Trebbiano. This
lovely white wine is light bodied with notes of stone fruit and lemon zest
making this white wine very appealing on a hot summer day. Next was the 2021
Albariño.
This full-bodied white wine sourced from the Texas High Plains AVA has citrus
on the nose followed by a fair amount of minerality and good acidity. For the Rosé
wine, the 2023 Ranch Road stood out as a light bodied and fruit forward wine
with a light ruby red color. It is a blend of Cinsault, Cabernet Sauvignon,
Malbec, Pinot Noir, and Pinot Gris, sourced from Reddy Vineyards. Moving on to
the reds, the 2023 Circle H was sampled. This red field blend from Reddy
Vineyards circle field plot has a mix of just about everything. It is medium
bodied with notes of blackberries, tobacco, leather and a touch of smoke. The
next red wine sampled was the 2023 Petit Verdot. It has a lot of dark fruit
going for this full-bodied beast and some firm tannins that grab your
attention. Lastly, the 2023 Barrel Racer was sipped. This port style wine was aged
in Garrison Brother’s used whiskey barrels. Made with Syrah, it expresses some
good notes of tobacco, cherries and chocolate all in one sip! It is a
definitive sipper that is worth enjoying after your meal, or with dessert or
cheese.
The tasting room also has a kitchen in case you get the munchies. Live music from local musicians helps complement the cool laid-back vibe of this place along with your favorite glass of wine. The staff are very personable, welcoming and attentive. They want to ensure you feel right at home. Kara’s new adventure is proof that life changes can be successful. Cheers!
Sourced from the Texas High Plains AVA and specifically
Lahey Vineyard, this wine exhibits vibrant acidity and a bright fruit
character. Aged in French oak, it delivers a crisp, dry profile with lots of
citrus notes, hints of pear, and subtle guava. Its bright acidity is complimented
by a light, creamy mouthfeel, and ending off with a refreshing finish. This
wine is an excellent choice to savor all day. Cheers!
This Petite Sirah from Perissos is crafted using estate
fruit of the Texas Hill Country AVA. The wine is made from the free run portion
of the bins, where the fermented juice is literally squeezed out by the weight
of the overlying grapes themselves. The result is a wine that offers vibrant
notes of cherries and blueberries, showcasing both the richness of the fruit
and along with a softer profile. It is quite an easy and anytime drinker, so
enjoy this one well. Cheers!
Clocking in at 14.9 ABV, this left bank Bordeaux style wine
is drinking very well right now. Sourced from the Texas High Plains AVA, this
blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Petit Verdot, and Merlot was aged for almost three
years. The initial pour reveals a moderate
ruby hue and instantly fills the air with deep, dark fruit aromas. Swirl
if you wish, but that first taste will ignite your
palate with raspberry notes, hints of coffee bean, and traces of blueberry.
You may also notice a touch of spice,
subtle leathery undertones, and a faint of toastiness. Let’s place this
mighty red beast at medium plus with good acidity. That velvety finish feel is
a showstopper for sure! The 2019 vintage is showing to be an outstanding one, a
very rich and smooth wine to savor all day - Viva la left bank!
Harvested from La Pradera Vineyards, located in the Texas
High Plains AVA, this Mourvèdre has many of those intense Pinot Noir
characteristics that you’ll crave for. It pours a garnet color and reveals enticing
notes of vibrant plum, raspberry, blackberry, and currant. There is a touch of
vanilla in there as well complimented with some subtle earthiness. The finish
is smooth, making each sip both enjoyable and memorable. Cheers!
Adega Vinho continues to demonstrate the impressive
craftsmanship behind Texas Chardonnays. Sourced from the Texas Hills Vineyard
in the Texas Hill Country AVA, this wine opens with enticing notes of citrus
and apples. A touch of vanilla and subtle cream adds just the right amount of
character to this wine while a light buttery texture helps round out the
sipping experience. The wine’s light gold color is also quite elegant for the
visual effects. It is a standout choice that you can’t go wrong with. Cheers!
Behold…the mighty XXV has made its debut with a blend of
Barbera (40%), Cabernet Sauvignon (30%), and Syrah (30%). This dry red blend
vintage from the Texas Hill Country AVA opens with a burst of spice and
delivers pronounced acidity. Flavors of blackberry and plum come forward,
complemented by subtle notes of pepper. Sitting around the medium bodied level,
it has quite a complex finish and a lingering tantalizing sensation on the
finish. It’s a good Mason County wine to savor for sure. Cheers!
Sourced from their estate vineyard in the Texas Hill Country
AVA, this wine has a vibrant character, marked by ripe fruit and a distinctly
floral bouquet. Adding to its freshness appeal, are notes of apricots and pears
to help tantalize your wine senses. It also boasts a great mouthfeel, providing
a rounded and satisfying experience with every sip. Cheers!
Sourced from Columbia Valley, this
Cabernet is bold and rich, offering a well-structured, smooth profile and an
impressively long finish to satisfy your eager wine senses. You'll notice abundant blackberry notes, complemented by
hints of cherry and a touch of mocha. The
wine has moderate acidity and a subtle note of vanilla, with just the right amount
of tannins to create a pleasant tasting experience. It is a savory one to
enjoy well. Cheers!
Opening up this wine, aged
nearly ten years, is sure to excite your tastebuds. Sourced from the Oswald Family Vineyard in the Texas
High Plains AVA, the aroma is bright with cherries and strawberries.
Take a light sip and you’ll pick up on a bit of leather, as well. The wine has
a good balance between acidity and minerality plus a moderate finish to round
things out. Sip and repeat and you’ll be even more satisfied. Cheers!
This Napa Valley estate-grown wine shines with an aromatic
profile and a stunning golden yellow hue. Oak aging adds a touch of vanilla to
complement the vibrant acidity and good minerality. The wine opens with a bit
of phenolic sensation, followed by tropical fruits, lemongrass, and a subtle
hint of herbs. This really energizes that tantalizing and zesty palate feel. A
long finish rounds out the experience, leaving lingering impressions of
freshness to complement the wine’s lively character. Cheers!
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Yes! This is some mighty fine Sauvignon Blanc is one to try
for sure. Sourced from the increasingly noteworthy Dell Valley Vineyards Hudspeth
County, the wine presents a big aromatic
profile featuring prominent notes of peach and lemon, complemented by subtle
hints of pear and some jasmine. It
offers medium acidity and notable minerality, too - quite refreshing to relish
all day. Savor this one well. Cheers!
The Hickory Sands has done wonders for this wine as well as
honor the story behind the label name. If happiness is your game, then you’ll
be extra pleased with this Touriga/Mourvèdre red blend. Aged and fermented in
large French oak vats for about two and a half years has been a blessing to
this jewel. Expect initial notes of dark
fruit and elegant floral aromas, followed by a hint of spice as you take your
first sip. There is some spice up
front on that first sip followed by good acids and a touch of vanilla. Let’s mark this beauty at medium bodied for
this six year old bottle and a big “cheer” all around!
Sourced from Pepper Jack Vineyards of the Texas High Plains
AVA and aged for 19 months in oak, this wine delivers on vibrant cherry and
plum notes. The profile is also highlighted by hints of spice and pepper,
creating a delightful tasting experience. With a dry style and medium acidity,
this wine offers just the right balance of tannins to complement its
fruit-forward character, making it both expressive and well- presented. Cheers!
Sitting in at 14.6 abv, this fine Grenache really hits the
spot with a satisfying experience. Harvested from Vintage Press Vineyard of the
Texas Hill Country AVA, it has some good fruit forwardness and zesty sensation
for this medium bodied beast. Blackberry and raspberry notes are the main
sensations to excite you with this wine followed by some subtle tobacco
afterwards. The wine’s light red,
translucent hue is visually appealing when poured in sunlight, too. With
low tannins, this wine is definitely a one session enjoyer for sure. Cheers!
A single vineyard-sourced
varietal provides an excellent opportunity to appreciate both the winemaker's
skill and the distinctive terroir of the vineyard. Harvested from La
Pradera Vineyards of the Texas High Plains AVA, this beauty reveals some
intense and enticing blackberry notes complimented with plums along with pepper
and spicy sensations. And yes, that little darker than normal color is just an
added bonus to your sipping experience. The wine also reveals some good acids
and bold tannins to add to its fine structure. It can definitely age a bit
longer, so no shame in keeping a few bottles tucked away for another day. Santé!
This Texas Hill Country AVA Mourvèdre Rosé is quite a
beauty. You'll notice rose aromas at first,
accompanied by subtle sweetness in the bouquet. It has some savory
strawberry notes on that first sip and repeat tasting followed some peaches.
The wine will also tease some melon across the palate, as well. With lively acidity and a wonderfully refreshing feeling,
there is much to enjoy in this Rosé. Cheers!
Sourced from Reddy Vineyards in the Texas High Plains AVA,
this wine exhibits a moderate red cherry color that’s an eye catcher for sure.
This Carignan profile highlights vibrant notes of raspberries and strawberries,
accented by a pleasant spice and a subtle touch of plum. It also expresses a
bold sensation with good acidity, complemented by a light finish that makes it
a delight to enjoy. Altogether, these characteristics create an inviting
experience to help ease your mind and soul. Cheers!
When Vouvray calls, that expectation bar hits pretty high.
Also called Chenin Blanc, this wine is a pretty decent go-to bottle to
experience some appealing aromas and refreshing finish from the Loire Valley's
Vouvray area. It is dry (aka Sec) with medium intensity and a lovely fragrance
sensation. The wine presents a pale
yellow color and features aromas of apple and peach, enhanced by hints of lemon
and honey. Sip, swirl, and repeat and you’ll pick up on some pear and
good minerality, as well. Acidity is around medium and it delivers a solid
finish. It’s a great quality wine to
savor for sure. Santé!
Crafted from nearly equal parts of 37% Touriga Nacional, 37%
Tannat, and 26% Tempranillo, this bad-ass blend originates from the Round
Mountain Vineyard located in the Texas Hill Country AVA. The wine reveals
earthy and savory sensations, complemented by lively notes of raspberry and
spice. Flavors of blackberry and a bit of chocolate add some additional
character to the tasting profile, yielding a multiplex and memorable tasting
experience. Cheers!
This Sangiovese grape from Alta Loma Vineyard in the Texas
High Plains AVA marks the first harvest of this varietal from the site.
Displaying a light red color for sensory starters, it shows off mostly notes of
cherries and peppers, with hints of blueberries. The wine also exhibits a very
good and pleasant mouthfeel for extra enjoyment. The finish is light, making it
an approachable style to enjoy. Look forward to trying their successive
vintages from this vineyard. Cheers!
This Riesling from the Nahe
wine region will definitely help set your calibration sensors. Its deep
golden color sighting will be the first thing you notice immediately followed
by intense aromas of flowers and honeysuckle – yes, it is quite aromatic. Those
additional notes of peach, apples, and melons have that “oh, so savory” feeling
all over it for this light bodied treat. There is also a touch of what may be
perceived as an effervescence feel, as well.
With its slightly off-dry taste, pronounced acidity, and good minerality, this
Riesling makes for a delightful sip at any time of day. Zum Wohl!
One step on to this mini paradise locale and you might just
want to take up permanent residence. Defined
by scenic landscapes, expansive views, rolling hills, and the gentle sounds of
a breeze through the trees, the peaceful atmosphere for this large family
estate is quite appealing. The Signor’s and Weisinger’s, long-time Texas
family friends, have not only had a rich history of farming in the state, but
have also ventured into winemaking. Already well-seasoned stewards of the land,
they knew quite well the rewards of hard work and patience with farm life. The Weisinger family began their winemaking journey in
Oregon’s Rogue Valley region, establishing what is now Weisinger Family Winery,
before collaborating with their Signor friends to undertake a similar venture
in Texas. Situated on a bluff between the Pedernales River and Grape
Creek River, the current site on HWY 290 was acquired in 2010 with vines planted
in 2015. You can imagine the excitement they had with their first harvest in
2017. The following year, they opened a tasting room to the public and history
has continuously been made ever since. Presently,
the estate grows seven red varietals across nearly two dozen acres:
Tempranillo, Touriga Nacional, Tannat, Mourvèdre, Sangiovese, Malbec, and
Montepulciano. Additionally, they source
grapes from vineyards near Fort Davis to further enhance the quality of their
fruit. An on-site production facility was completed a couple of years
ago with a new tasting room in the front currently under construction.
The Member’s tasting room is in a former home on the
property that is quite beautiful and truly stunning as you walk and admire all
the added details of its unique architecture. Its décor just blends right into
the landscape with open settings, split level rooms, and all encased in white.
Adjacent to that is an expansive outdoor patio covered by tall oak trees and
overlooking a pond. There are outside tasting tables on the patio with
surrounding scenic views and usually coupled with great music in the
background. The other enclosed tasting room is the harvest room with large
indoor seating, which seemed quite spacious with views of the vineyard and
estate. Michael Barton has been leading their winemaking, adding his special touch
of greatness to these well recognized wines.
During this visit, a variety of wines sampled starting with
the 2020 Sauvignon Blanc. This wine was sourced from Oregon’s Rouge Valley
which was quite aromatic with lots of kiwi and passionfruit notes making it a
very refreshing sipper. The second white was the 2023 Chardonnay. Also sourced
from Rogue Valley, citrus notes were pronounced followed by luscious pears. The
finish was quite refreshing and savory, too. The 2023 ‘Mama Said There’d Be
Days Like This’ was an interesting Muscat blend. It is sourced from Texas Hill
Country fruit, with 25% each of Marsanne and Roussanne in addition to the
Muscat. It was quite a treat to have with honeysuckle and peach notes tickling
the tastebuds. For their Rosé wine, the 2024 Rose of Mourvèdre was sampled.
This Texas High Plains sourced fruit packs some good strawberry and melon notes
along with a light crisp finish. Moving on to the reds, the first one to try
was the 2022 Sangiovese with fruit sourced from the High Plains. It poured a light
red hue with herbal notes and just the right acidity to tease your palate. Following that one was the 2021 Dolcetto.
This red wine with grapes sourced from the Rogue Valley expressed itself as light
bodied with dominant cherry notes. The 2023 Texas High Plains Tempranillo, a
well-known Texas red wine, had a perfect balance of oak with dark berries with
a dash of pepper to delight. Cabernet Franc lovers never fear, their 2021 Rogue
Valley bottle was wonderful. There was spice, pepper and a rich deep feel to
this wine, plus an addictive long lasting finish. That Cab Franc demanded a
hearty meal for pairing! Hard to follow that one, but moving on to the Hudspeth
County 2023 Petit Verdot was next. This far West Texas sourced beast was super
rich and bold with dark cherries, a touch of cocoa, and just the right level of
tannins to bring a smile to your heart. The 2022 Touriga Nacional was sipped
and savored too. It was a lovely smooth red wine with that classic strong nose,
black pepper and excellent tannins with a hint of currants. Taking a little
break from bold reds, the 2021 Mozzafiato was sampled next. This blend of
Barbera, Primitivo, Sangiovese, and Dolcetto (Rogue Valley AVA) was very well
balanced with a smooth lingering feel on the finish. Jumping back to bold reds,
was the 2021 Estate Tannat. This big bold red envelops your palate with that
full mouth feel of rich dark cherries and medium tannins. Finally, the 2022
Grand Pere was poured. This mighty red wine was blended with equal parts of Cabernet
Sauvignon, Malbec, and Cabernet Franc (Rogue Valley). It had beautiful notes of
blackberries and plums, plus a nice balance making this wine quite versatile
for food pairings. Every wine on the wine tasting menu, (and a few unlisted) was
simply fantastic! You cannot go wrong with whatever type of wine you prefer or
try.
There is so much more that could be said about their
history, ongoing initiatives, and of
course the quality of wine here, but maybe that will be saved for another future
min novel. The staff provided exemplary
service, offering guidance throughout each wine tasting session with both
attentiveness and professionalism, ensuring each guest had a personalized
experience from well-seasoned staff. Do check out Joanna’s Market as
well, which is in a classic farmhouse style home with lots of goodies and
treats to offer. There is an onsite kitchen offering a variety of options, but do
try their famous Green Chili and Chicken Pozole. It will make you a diehard fan
and a repeat customer for sure! There is also a recently
opened location in downtown Fredericksburg now allowing travelers additional
opportunities to experience the winery's offerings. Your visit will
impress you and leave you looking forward to a return stop again soon given how
they treat you like royalty. Cheers!
This wine, sourced from the Texas High Plains AVA and clocking
in at 15% abv, will immediately impress you with its remarkable depth and rich
character. Full-bodied and bold, it delivers a savory experience with
blackberry and black pepper notes. It still shows off a very dark color that
compliments its complex and intense tasting profile. It’s a beauty for sure and
aging quite well. Cheers!
Clocking in at 15.8 abv, this mighty Merlot is truly remarkable! Crafted
from grapes grown in the Texas High Plains AVA, it
greets your wine senses with inviting cherry and pepper notes, making for a pleasant
first sipping experience. Take another sip or two, and you might pick up
a bit of blackberry, as well. The
wine features a touch of spice for added character and maintains a
well-balanced profile. Savory and appealing, this gem deserves to be enjoyed down
to the last drop. Santé!
For those that have been around the Texas wine world for a
while, you might be quite familiar with Jeremy Wilson. He is both a sommelier
and just an all-around great guy and experiencing a tasting session with him is
always a special treat. After all these
years of working at various Texas wineries in their tasting rooms and educating
us all about Texas wine, excitement surrounds his “first act” as a winemaker. His
inaugural releases of Rock Flower Creations – Mourvèdre Rosé has been his first
born, released with pride and joy. What
makes this wine even more special is that the grapes came from the Bilger
Family Vineyard estate, the same place where Jeremy often leads tastings at
Adega Vinho these days. What has been crafted is a lovely Provence-style
Rosé that is dry, light bodied and encompasses that pleasant A to Z feel. You will discern notes of melon and citrus, complemented
by hints of red berries and some ripe strawberries. The acids are good
and the pleasant finish is especially
noteworthy. For a low alcohol Rosé, you should be quite pleased with
this beautiful creation that melds both art and wine in the bottle. Cheers and
Congratulations Jeremy!
This “little” Houston-based
winery produces some excellent wines, with each label supporting a meaningful
cause. Meaning “high path” from the label name, this wine label brand’s
proceeds goes towards conservatory efforts of the Memorial park area of
Houston. Not
only is the wine crafted for a good purpose, but it's also a pleasure to
sip and savor. Made with grapes from the
Texas High Plains AVA, it comes across as medium body with flavors of plums and
berries, complemented by bright acidity, black pepper, and a hint of spice. If
you find yourself craving your favorite pork dish while sipping this delightful
treat, don't hesitate to indulge. Enjoy!
This rare varietal, which might be known by different names
in other countries, is a great treat to have for a hearty dinner. Sourced from the
Sierra Foothills, the wine reveals an intriguing combination of cherry and
herbal notes, accented by hints of raspberries and a subtle touch of smoke. Its
uniqueness and the complexity in every sip will be one your wine senses will
remember and savor well. Cheers!
This mighty wine of Mason Country is a quality robust red
blend crafted from Tempranillo and Touriga Nacional grapes. The label name is a
nod to the street where the vineyard is located, adding a personal touch to
each bottle. This seven and half year old Texas wine is quite impressive with
pronounced notes of pepper and cherry, offering a bold profile that stands out well.
The ripe fruit flavors are well-structured and supported by firm tannins,
giving it both depth and character. The finish still packs a firm punch,
leaving a lasting impression and making it a wine that demands respectable attention.
Cheers!
Hello Counoise Rosé! Crafted
in a Provence-inspired style, this wine delivers that unmistakable "ooo"
and "ahh" sensation to satisfy your Rosé cravings. Plus, made from Counoise just adds
another pleasant twist to this lovely treat. Sourced
from Farmhouse Vineyards in the Texas High Plains AVA, it boasts a delicate
hue, good acidity, and flavor notes of raspberries complemented by hints of
cherry. It also sits in at 14.5 abv and can pack a little punch for a Rosé
wine. This is a wonderful Rosé to sip and
enjoy throughout the day - savor every moment!
Sourced from Bingham Family Vineyard of the Texas High
Plains AVA, this wine opens with a vibrant tropical sensation that immediately
greets your nose, setting the stage for a delightful tasting experience. Layers
of melon and apricot aromas follow, enhancing the inviting bouquet while both
acidity and body are on the medium side. The finish lingers just long enough to
leave you with that unmistakable “ahh” of contentment, capturing the essence of
a well-crafted Texas white. The self-corrected vintage via pen on the label
just shows that everything is handcrafted. Santé!
Made from 100% Blanc du Bois, this wine is very approachable
for any white wine fan. Sourced from Starry Night Farms in Austin County, its
low alcohol and bone dry feel helps make this sometimes overlooked varietal
stand out well on its own. Upon
pouring, the wine presents distinct floral and lemon aromas, followed by notes
of apple and pear. Subtle hints of apricot and a slight effervescence further
enhance its character. The wine is quite refreshing and definitely a fun
one to try. Cheers!
Say hello to some fine Austrian Wine! This Grüner Veltliner, cultivated in the Kremstal region,
beautifully highlights the classic flavors expected from this varietal. At first pour, you'll notice apple and pear aromas, which
are soon complemented by hints of grapefruit. Give
your glass a swirl and a sip to discover even more citrus notes, paired with
subtle touches of pepper and honey. This white wine jewel has some good
minerality along with that dry, crisp feeling. Take
your time to savor each drop and enjoy well. Zum Wohl!
Crafted from a 50/50 blend of Trebbiano and Vermentino
grapes grown in the Texas Hill Country AVA, this dry white wine offers a
refreshing experience from the first sip. Its inviting tropical aromas
instantly transport you to a vacation state of mind, while bright notes of apple
and lemon dance all over your tastebuds. With a light body and easy-drinking
character, it is the perfect companion for unwinding on your back patio,
especially as you take in those famous Texas Hill Country sunsets. Cheers!
Yes, Texas wines can age into the double digit years. Of
course, it all depends on factors such as the vintage, tannins, acids, etc.,
but there should be reason to assume Texas wines
won’t develop well over time. For this 2016 Merlot, a mix between
blueberry and blackberry notes seem to be prominent along with plums. The texture is smooth with underlying chocolate notes, too.
The acids are still holding up quite well, and only mild color changes are
noticeable for this pleasant sipper. You
can still pair this mighty Merlot with your favorite classic dish, so dig in
and sip well. Cheers!
Building on the success of previous vintages, this bold
white wine from Mason County stands out on its own as a wine sipper pleaser.
Clocking in at 15.2% ABV, the higher alcohol content seems well integrated and
compliments the wine’s overall profile. Grown on the region’s signature hickory
sands, it delivers a vibrant blend of apple and tropical fruit notes that just
burst out and envelopes every aspect of your wine senses. Its lively character
and richness make it a perfect choice for those warmer winter days, serving as
a refreshing go-to option whenever you’re craving a taste of sunshine in your
glass. Cheers!
This refreshing white wine immediately captivates your wine senses with its citrus aromas and crisp, palate cleansing sensation. On the nose, you’ll find notes of flowers, lemon and grapefruit, while a touch of peach and subtle minerality adds some depth. The flavor profile is light and fresh, with a zesty lingering finish. While reminiscing of those tropical breezes, making each sip a lively and memorable experience. Santé!
Single vineyard wines are always an extra special treat, and this estate jewel from the Texas Hill Country AVA shines with lively character. Featuring a fairly light body, it offers inviting notes of strawberries alongside a touch of tropical zest that adds radiance to each sip. This Rosé is mostly dry with medium to light acidity, delivering a refreshing and approachable drink that's perfect for enjoying on its own or paired with some fresh shellfish of the day. Cheers!
Over the river (or two) and through some woods, lies a
fantastic new winery in the southwest rural area of Kerrville with heavenly
views. Owners Dan and Sue Schulse founded this place back in 2016 with
dreams of making fine estate wine after a lovely and inspiring trip to Tuscany
in 2013. Most wine trekkers may be familiar with the Turtle Creek Olives and
Vines tasting room that has been open in downtown Kerrville for the last few
years. Now Texas wine fans can journey just a little bit further to see where
the magic happens. As a family-owned and
operated facility, this business functions not only as a winery and vineyard
but also as a working farm with lambs, chickens, pecans, and other agricultural
products. Their focus on sustainable farming practices and 100% estate
grown Texas fruit is an unwavering commitment on their part and something you
will appreciate when you visit. The
property's unique microclimate, shaped by nearby hills, creek, and favorable
soil conditions, supports the cultivation of high-quality crops.
Tannat and Mourvèdre constitute the largest number of vines,
but there is also Montepulciano, Cabernet Sauvignon, Trebbiano, and a little
bit of Merlot. Yes, good Cabernet Sauvignon can be grown in the Hill Country,
but this locale has that unique setting that helps support that. Although wine
production is currently done elsewhere, plans are underway to soon have
everything done onsite. There are two main tasting options (mixed and reds).
Pick whichever, you can’t go wrong! Starting off this tasting session was the
2024 Trebbiano. It has quite an impressive bouquet of tropical fruits,
especially pineapple and some fantastic acids adding just the right balance.
Next up was the 2024 Rosé. Made from Tannat, it has fantastic floral aromas and
peach and caramel notes complimented with good minerality and a lovely shade of
salmon. Moving to the reds, the first to be sampled was the 2023 Nine to Five.
This blend of 64% Tannat and 36% Montepulciano expressed good dark fruit notes
and good acidity along with moderate tannins. The second red that was sampled
was the NV Cabernet Sauvignon. A blend of 2021 and 2022 vintages, this wine has
a very opaque color with lots of dark fruit notes, firm tannins, and a bit of
tobacco. Take your time sipping this one as it opens quite nicely over time.
Following that one was the 2021 Red Blend. This red wine mix of 60%
Montepulciano, 30% Cabernet Sauvignon and 10% Merlot is medium bodied, well
balanced and has a nice touch of earthiness. Capping off the tasting was the
2023 Tannat. This deep bold red wine has a velvety feel and notes of dark
berries with a touch of smoke. It can be a bit grippy right now, but it should
smooth out with time. Coming in 2026 is a reserve Montepulciano along with a
fantastic Mourvèdre to look forward to, so worth planning a visit this year to
try them.
The tasting room and outdoor
patio are both truly excellent and you will feel so comfortable. With
beautiful hill country views and a relaxed setting next to the river, you just
might want to camp here all night to soak up the vibes. Hopefully there will be
some excellent live music when you stop by for a visit. Don’t forget to sample
some of their super delicious food items, especially the lamb meatballs. The staff are quite knowledgeable and wonderful to work
with during your tasting experience. Once
you discover this charming little gem, savor every minute…and every drop
of wine. Cheers!
