This Is Texas Wine: Recent Episodes

Shelly Wilfong

This Is Texas Wine amplifies the great things happening in the Texas wine industry by sharing news about Texas wineries, interviews, travel tips, updates from the vineyards across the state, and wine recommendations. Host Shelly Wilfong also provides Texas-specific wine education, information on industry trends, legislative developments, and other important topics that impact the Texas wine industry from a business and economic standpoint.

Follow the show on social media at @texaswinepod or email texaswinepod@gmail.com.

Website: www.thisistexaswine.com

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Mentioned in this Episode

Connect with the Podcast:

Facebook: @texaswinepod

Instagram: @texaswinepod

Email: texaswinepod@gmail.com

Show notes and more: www.thisistexaswine.com

Help the Show:

Subscribe to the newsletter.

Donate virtual Texas wine or join the podcast membership at the Gold Medal, Silver Medal, or Bronze Medal Level!

Leave a review on Spotify or Apple Podcasts!

Thanks to our sponsors:

Bending Branch Winery: Contact Jen at bendingbranchwinery.com for all of your custom crush winemaking needs.

Monopole Labs: Visit TexasWinePOS.com. Winery software designed by a winery. One login. One ecosystem.

Mentioned in this Episode

  1. Regional reports on the 2026 harvest by Texas A&M AgriLife Extension V&E Program
  2. Harvest outlook by Texas Fine Wine members
  3. New Stonewall tasting room: Acquired Taste Wines
  4. New Fredericksburg tasting room: Chaparral Vin
  5. New concept for Serrano Wines: Highland House (San Antonio)
  6. TEXSOM Conference is August 23–25 in Irving
  7. Texas Results at Decanter World Wine Awards 2026
  8. Maureen O’Hare on CNN: “The US has record-breaking year at the world’s largest wine awards”
  9. James Tidwell MS on Decanter.com: “Region on the rise: Texas wines shine at DWWA 2026”
  10. Follow Bree Stock MW on Instagram HERE
  11. Enter Rodeo Uncorked! Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo’s IWC HERE
  12. Enter Vine2Wine Fort Worth Livestock Show and Rodeo’s IWC HERE

Featured Interview

Tom and Whitney Kilgore of 5 Fifty-Five Vineyard and Winery

Demerit and Gold Star

DEMERIT:

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GOLD STARS:

Texas wine winners in USA TODAY’S 10BEST Awards:

Duchman Family Winery - #3 wine tasting room

Texas Hill Country - #3 wine region

Cottonwood Wine Tours - #7 in wine tours

Grape Creek Vineyard - $5 winery tour

Texas Wine Jam - #9 wine festival

Daniel Kelada for his message to buy more Texas wine!

Special Thanks

Need lodging in Fredericksburg? Check out Cork + Cactus!

Find Cork + Cactus and many more great rentals at Heavenly Hosts.com!

Thanks to Texas Wine Lover for promotional help! For the latest information on Texas wineries and vineyards, visit Texas Wine Lover. Don’t forget to download the Texas Wine Lover app too!

Podcast music is by Landon Lloyd Miller. Check out this music on Spotify HERE

View Details

Mentioned in this Episode

Connect with the Podcast:

Facebook: @texaswinepod

Instagram: @texaswinepod

Email: texaswinepod@gmail.com

Show notes and more: www.thisistexaswine.com

Help the Show:

Subscribe to the newsletter.

Donate virtual Texas wine or join the podcast membership at the Gold Medal, Silver Medal, or Bronze Medal Level!

Leave a review on Spotify or Apple Podcasts!

Thanks to our sponsors:

Bending Branch Winery: Contact Jen at bendingbranchwinery.com for all of your custom crush winemaking needs.

Brunch Agency: Contact charlotte@brunchagency.com and say you heard it on This Is Texas Wine podcast to get actionable tips for improving your website and digital sales strategy.

Mentioned in this Episode

  1. Texas Hill Country Wineries Presents: Hill Country Wine Camp 2026!
  2. North Texas Wine Jam at Lost Oak Winery on Saturday, June 6!
  3. Drink North Texas on May 30 in Dallas. TICKETS
  4. Texas Hill Country Wineries’ New Summer Season Pass
  5. Texas Hill Country Wineries’ Barrels & Bites
  6. TEXSOM Conference is August 23–25 in Irving
  7. My interview with Mark Fusco of WineWorldTV on YouTube
  8. Italianity: The Culture of Italian Wine by Jessica Dupuy and Andrea Lonardi, MD - Order here!

Featured Interview

Garrett Strickler, Vineyard Director, Salt Lick Vineyards & Wine Director, Salt Lick Cellars

Follow Local Customs on Instagram HERE

And don’t miss Salt Lick BBQ too!

Demerit and Gold Star

DEMERIT:

none this episode

GOLD STARS:

St Mary’s School of Law Graduation Address by Ron Yates!

Special Thanks

Need lodging in Fredericksburg? Check out Cork + Cactus!

Find Cork + Cactus and many more great rentals at Heavenly Hosts.com!

Thanks to Texas Wine Lover for promotional help! For the latest information on Texas wineries and vineyards, visit Texas Wine Lover. Don’t forget to download the Texas Wine Lover app too!

Podcast music is by Landon Lloyd Miller. Check out this music on Spotify HERE

View Details

Mentioned in this Episode

Connect with the Podcast:
Facebook: @texaswinepod
Instagram: @texaswinepod
Email: texaswinepod@gmail.com
Show notes and more: www.thisistexaswine.com

Help the Show:
Subscribe to the newsletter.
Donate virtual Texas wine or join the podcast membership at the Gold Medal, Silver Medal, or Bronze Medal Level!
Leave a review on Spotify or Apple Podcasts!

Thanks to our sponsors:
Vintage2: Contact Tim at weinheimergroup.com for more information about enhancing your winery’s AI visibility.
Bending Branch Winery: Contact Jen at bendingbranchwinery.com for all of your custom crush winemaking needs.
Brunch Agency: Contact charlotte@brunchagency.com and say you heard it on This Is Texas Wine podcast to get actionable tips for improving your website and digital sales strategy.

Mentioned in this Episode

  1. Maryam Ahmed for Bon Appetit Magazine: “We Champion Eating Locally. Why Don’t We Do The Same For Wine?”
  2. Texas Wine Bankruptcy Filings
  3. Texas Vintners Cup 2026
  4. Save the Date! Texas Hill Country Wineries Wine Camp 2026 will be held July 17–19!
  5. Cultivate Winemaker Dinner with Texas Fine Wine and Wine and Food Foundation on May 15 in Austin TICKETS
  6. Texas Hill Country Wineries’ New Summer Season Pass
  7. Texas Hill Country Wineries’ Barrels & Bites
  8. The Texas Wine Experience at Guad Haus in Austin is May 16!
  9. North Texas Wine Jam at Lost Oak Winery on Saturday, June 6!
  10. Drink North Texas on May 30 in Dallas. TICKETS

Featured Interview
Fran Pontasch, author of the forthcoming book on Blanc Du Bois with co-authors Drs. Justin Scheiner and Russ Kane. Visit www.blancdubois.com to stay connected!

Doug Lewis of Lewis Wines

Grower Perspective by James Kasparek of Starry Night Farms

Shelly’s List of Blanc Du Bois Wines and Producers to Try
Haak Winery 2020 Madeira
Haak Winery 2022 Blanc Du Bois
Enoch’s Stomp 2024 and 2025 Dry Blanc Du Bois
Enoch’s Stomp 2024 and 2025 Off-Dry Blanc Du Bois
Threshold Vineyard 2023 Blanc Du Bois
Threshold Vineyards 2023 Semisweet Blanc Du Bois
Pebble Rock Cellars 2020 o inicio and o segundo fortified Blanc Du Bois
Elisa Christopher Wines Sparkling Blanc Du Bois
Rebecca Christopher Sparkling Blanc Du Bois
Messina Hof
Loblolly Cellars Blanc Du Bois and BDB Sangria
Kiepersol Texas Vit
La Cruz de Comal
Wild Stallion Vineyards
West Sandy Creek Vineyards
Lewis Wines Swim Spot

Demerit and Gold Star
DEMERIT: none this episode

GOLD STARS:
Messina Hof Tacos and Tempranillo celebration for Cinco de Mayo

Texas Wine Growers for asking Southwest Airlines to allow Texas airports to join the Sip and Ship promotion.

Special Thanks

Need lodging in Fredericksburg? Check out Cork + Cactus!
Find Cork + Cactus and many more great rentals at Heavenly Hosts.com!

Thanks to Texas Wine Lover for promotional help! For the latest information on Texas wineries and vineyards, visit Texas Wine Lover. Don’t forget to download the Texas Wine Lover app too!

Podcast music is by Landon Lloyd Miller. Check out this music on Spotify HERE

View Details

Mentioned in this Episode

Connect with the Podcast:

Facebook: @texaswinepod

Instagram: @texaswinepod

Email: texaswinepod@gmail.com

Show notes and more: www.thisistexaswine.com

Help the Show:

Subscribe to the newsletter.

Donate virtual Texas wine or join the podcast membership at the Gold Medal, Silver Medal, or Bronze Medal Level!

Leave a review on Spotify or Apple Podcasts!

Thanks to our sponsors:

Vintage2: Contact Tim at weinheimergroup.com for more information about enhancing your winery’s AI visibility.

Bending Branch Winery: Contact Jen at bendingbranchwinery.com for all of your custom crush winemaking needs.

Brunch Agency: Contact charlotte@brunchagency.com and say you heard it on This Is Texas Wine podcast to get actionable tips for improving your website and digital sales strategy.

Mentioned in this Episode

  1. TEXSOM Awards 2026
  2. New Plans for William Chris Tasting Room on Main Street in Fredericksburg
  3. Texas Hill Country Wineries Houston Road Show on May 8! Link to TICKETS
  4. Texas Fine Wine Blog: “Can Texas Wines Age? The Case for Serious Texas Ageability”
  5. Cultivate Winemaker Dinner with Texas Fine Wine and Wine and Food Foundation on May 15 in Austin TICKETS
  6. Amanda Ogle for Travel & Leisure: “This Is the Unofficial Capital of Texas Hill Country—and It Has Dozens of Wineries and Incredible Restaurants”
  7. Kathleen Willcox for TheDrinksBusiness.com: “Sell more wine with flavor, not terroir”
  8. Austin Wine Week begins April 26!
  9. Texas Wine Auction on May 1–2 in Johnson City! TICKETS
  10. The Texas Wine Experience at Guad Haus in Austin is May 16!
  11. North Texas Wine Jam at Lost Oak Winery on Saturday, June 6!
  12. Drink North Texas on May 30 in Dallas. TICKETS

Featured Interview

Chase Jones of Slate Theory Winery

Demerits and Gold Stars

DEMERIT:

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GOLD STARS:

4th Annual Rose Festival at Adega Vinho. Lewis, Ab Astris and William Chris will also be pouring! Gold star for winery collaboration and giving us an excuse to drink pink! TICKETS

And I’m Longlisted for the The 67 Pall Mall Global Wine Communicator Awards in the audio category! READ MORE woo hoo!

Special Thanks

Need lodging in Fredericksburg? Check out Cork + Cactus!

Find Cork + Cactus and many more great rentals at Heavenly Hosts.com!

Thanks to Texas Wine Lover for promotional help! For the latest information on Texas wineries and vineyards, visit Texas Wine Lover. Don’t forget to download the Texas Wine Lover app too!

Podcast music is by Landon Lloyd Miller. Check out this music on Spotify HERE

View Details

Mentioned in this Episode

Connect with the Podcast:

Facebook: @texaswinepod

Instagram: @texaswinepod

Email: texaswinepod@gmail.com

Show notes and more: www.thisistexaswine.com

Help the Show:

Subscribe to the newsletter.

Donate virtual Texas wine or join the podcast membership at the Gold Medal, Silver Medal, or Bronze Medal Level!

Leave a review on Spotify or Apple Podcasts!

Thanks to our sponsors:

Vintage2: Contact Tim at weinheimergroup.com for more information about enhancing your winery’s AI visibility.

Bending Branch Winery: Contact Jen at bendingbranchwinery.com for all of your custom crush winemaking needs.

Brunch Agency: Contact charlotte@brunchagency.com and say you heard it on This Is Texas Wine podcast to get actionable tips for improving your website and digital sales strategy.

Mentioned in this Episode

  1. Ron Yates Wines opens new tasting room in Johnson City
  2. Into the Glass podcast by GuildSomm: Alternative Wine Packaging with Melissa Saunders MW
  3. New Travel & Leisure Story Highlights Johnson City
  4. Fredericksburg Food and Wine Restaurant Week is May 4–10
  5. Introducing North Texas Wine Jam - Saturday, June 6!
  6. The Texas Wine Experience at Guad Haus in Austin is May 16!
  7. Rhone Rangers Visit Texas! Tickets for event in Houston on 4/10 HERE and the walkaround tasting at William Chris on 4/12 HERE.
  8. Texas Hill Country Wineries Houston Road Show on May 8! Link to TICKETS
  9. Texas Wine Auction on May 1–2 in Johnson City! TICKETS
  10. Drink North Texas on May 30 in Dallas. Early Bird Tickets available through April 30! TICKETS

Featured Interview

Elisa Jones of Elisa Christopher Wines and Seth Urbanek of William Chris Wine Company / Rebecca Caroline Wines

Elisa’s podcast with Jessica Dupuy on Another Bottle Down podcast can be found HERE

Demerit and Gold Star

DEMERIT:

Austin Monthly magazine for not mentioning any winery or vineyard options in their cover story “Take it Outside! 40 refreshing ways to get outdoors in the Hill Country this spring.” Thanks to Miguel Lecuona for sharing!

GOLD STARS:

none this episode

Special Thanks

Need lodging in Fredericksburg? Check out Cork + Cactus!

Find Cork + Cactus and many more great rentals at Heavenly Hosts.com!

Thanks to Texas Wine Lover for promotional help! For the latest information on Texas wineries and vineyards, visit Texas Wine Lover. Don’t forget to download the Texas Wine Lover app too!

Podcast music is by Landon Lloyd Miller. Check out this music on Spotify HERE

View Details

Mentioned in this Episode

Connect with the Podcast:

Facebook: @texaswinepod

Instagram: @texaswinepod

Email: texaswinepod@gmail.com

Show notes and more: www.thisistexaswine.com

Help the Show:

Subscribe to the newsletter.

Donate virtual Texas wine or join the podcast membership at the Gold Medal, Silver Medal, or Bronze Medal Level!

Leave a review on Spotify or Apple Podcasts!

Thanks to our sponsors:

Vintage2: Contact Tim at weinheimergroup.com for more information about enhancing your winery’s AI visibility.

Bending Branch Winery: Contact Jen at bendingbranchwinery.com for all of your custom crush winemaking needs.

Brunch Agency: Contact charlotte@brunchagency.com and say you heard it on This Is Texas Wine podcast to get actionable tips for improving your website and digital sales strategy.

Mentioned in this Episode

  1. 6 Texas Wines Named to World’s Best Sommelier Selections
  2. John Harvey for Texas Wine Lover: “Bob Landon: All In”
  3. Take the Silicon Valley Bank DTC Survey! or view the survey HERE
  4. Rootstock on March 28 in Waco! Use code SHELLY for a discount! TICKETS
  5. Rhone Rangers Visit Texas! Tickets for event in Houston HERE, for the luncheon at William Chris HERE and the walkaround tasting at William Chris HERE.
  6. 4R Ranch for sale in Meunster
  7. Texas Hill Country Wineries announces Houston Road Show on May 8! Link to TICKETS
  8. Texas Wine Auction on May 1–2 in Johnson City! Early Bird Tickets available through February 19 with code DRINKTX. TICKETS
  9. Drink North Texas on May 30 in Dallas. Early Bird Tickets available through April 30! TICKETS

Featured Interview

Janet and Mark Miertschin of Portree Cellars

Demerit and Gold Star

DEMERIT:

St Paddy’s Day freeze!

GOLD STARS:

none this episode

Special Thanks

Need lodging in Fredericksburg? Check out Cork + Cactus!

Find Cork + Cactus and many more great rentals at Heavenly Hosts.com!

Thanks to Texas Wine Lover for promotional help! For the latest information on Texas wineries and vineyards, visit Texas Wine Lover. Don’t forget to download the Texas Wine Lover app too!

Podcast music is by Landon Lloyd Miller. Check out this music on Spotify HERE

View Details

Mentioned in this Episode

Connect with the Podcast:

Facebook: @texaswinepod

Instagram: @texaswinepod

Email: texaswinepod@gmail.com

Show notes and more: www.thisistexaswine.com

Help the Show:

Subscribe to the newsletter.

Donate virtual Texas wine or join the podcast membership at the Gold Medal, Silver Medal, or Bronze Medal Level!

Leave a review on Spotify or Apple Podcasts!

Thanks to our sponsors:

Vintage2: Contact Tim at weinheimergroup.com for more information about enhancing your winery’s AI visibility.

Bending Branch Winery: Contact Jen at bendingbranchwinery.com for all of your custom crush winemaking needs.

Brunch Agency: Contact Charlotte at brunchagency.com and say you heard it on This Is Texas Wine podcast to get actionable tips for improving your website and digital sales strategy.

Mentioned in this Episode

  1. Austin Wine Week
  2. Missick Cellars Opening Tasting Room in Boerne
  3. Culture Map San Antonio: William Chris Announces New Rebecca Caroline Tasting Room in Hye
  4. Russ Kane on VintageTexas blog: “Invention Vineyards Offers Lower Alcohol Wines with Aroma and Flavor”
  5. Texas Wine Growers Advocate Membership: More Information HERE
  6. Wine and Food Foundation’s Cultivate: Texas Winemakers Dinner on Friday, May 15 in Austin
  7. Rootstock on March 28 in Waco! Use code SHELLY for a discount! TICKETS
  8. Texas Wine Auction on May 1–2 in Johnson City! TICKETS
  9. Drink North Texas on May 30 in Dallas. Early Bird Tickets available through April 30! TICKETS

Featured Interview

Blake DeBerry and Colby O’Brien of Torr Na Lochs

Wine Folly Regional Guide for the Texas Hill Country

Wine4.me Wine Selector Tool

Blake & Colby recently appeared on Kristi Mayfield’s Everyday Sommelier Podcast and described their sparkling wine process in detail. Listen to the podcast HERE on Apple Podcasts or HERE on Spotify.

Find Kristi’s reel showing the TNL sparkling wine setup on her Instagram: @kristi_sipsocietycollective. Date: Nov 18 2025

Demerit and Gold Star

DEMERIT:

none this episode

GOLD STARS:

Rockbox Theater’s New Wine List

Calais Winery’s Invitation to James Sucking’s Great Wines of the World event

Special Thanks

Need lodging in Fredericksburg? Check out Cork + Cactus! Find Cork + Cactus and many more great rentals at Heavenly Hosts.com!

Thanks to Texas Wine Lover for promotional help! For the latest information on Texas wineries and vineyards, visit Texas Wine Lover. Don’t forget to download the Texas Wine Lover app too!

Podcast music is by Landon Lloyd Miller. Check out his music out on Spotify HERE

View Details

Mentioned in this Episode

Connect with the Podcast:

Facebook: @texaswinepod

Instagram: @texaswinepod

Email: texaswinepod@gmail.com

Show notes and more: www.thisistexaswine.com

Help the Show:
Subscribe to the newsletter.

Donate virtual Texas wine or join the podcast membership at the Gold Medal, Silver Medal, or Bronze Medal Level!
Leave a review on Spotify or Apple Podcasts!

Thanks to our sponsors:

Vintage2: Contact Tim at weinheimergroup.com for more information about enhancing your winery’s AI visibility.

Bending Branch Winery: Contact Jen at bendingbranchwinery.com for all of your custom crush winemaking needs.

Mentioned in this Episode

  1. Congratulations to the TWGGA 2026 Industry Excellence Award Recipients
  2. Andrew Chalk: “Cristaldi’s Top 100 Wines of 2025 Is Almost 20% Texas”
  3. Texas Wine Growers Event on March 1 in Fredericksburg! Use code WINESHELLY for a discount! TICKETS
  4. Rootstock on March 28 in Waco! Use code SHELLY for a discount! TICKETS
  5. Texas Wine Auction on May 1–2 in Johnson City! Early Bird Tickets available through February 19 with code DRINKTX. TICKETS
  6. Drink North Texas on May 30 in Dallas. Early Bird Tickets available through April 30! TICKETS

Featured Interview
Zachary Raines, Head Winemaker at Augusta Vin Winery

Demerit and Gold Star
DEMERIT:

none this episode

GOLD STARS:

none this episode

Special Thanks

Need lodging in Fredericksburg? Check out Cork + Cactus!
Find Cork + Cactus and many more great rentals at Heavenly Hosts.com!

Thanks to Texas Wine Lover for promotional help! For the latest information on Texas wineries and vineyards, visit Texas Wine Lover. Don’t forget to download the Texas Wine Lover app too!

Podcast music is by Landon Lloyd Miller. Check him out on Spotify HERE

View Details

Mentioned in this Episode

Connect with the Podcast:

Facebook: @texaswinepod

Instagram: @texaswinepod

Email: texaswinepod@gmail.com

Show notes and more: www.thisistexaswine.com

Help the Show:

Subscribe to the newsletter.

Donate virtual Texas wine or join the podcast membership at the Gold Medal, Silver Medal, or Bronze Medal Level!

Leave a review on Spotify or Apple Podcasts!

Thanks to our sponsor Bending Branch Winery. Contact Jen at bendingbranchwinery.com for all of your custom crush winemaking needs!

Mentioned in this Episode

  1. D Magazine: Crowson Wines Featured at Fond Restaurant
  2. Introducing the Texas Fine Wine Club Share
  3. CultureMap San Antonio: New Owners for 290 Wine Castle
  4. Tate Gregory Promoted to Director of Viticulture at William Chris Wine Company
  5. Texas Wine Growers Event on March 1 in Fredericksburg! Use code WINESHELLY for a discount! TICKETS
  6. Rootstock on March 28 in Waco! Use code SHELLY for a discount! TICKETS
  7. Texas Wine Auction on May 1–2 in Johnson City! Early Bird Tickets available through February 19 with code DRINKTX. TICKETS
  8. Drink North Texas on May 30 in Dallas. Early Bird Tickets available through April 30! TICKETS

Featured Interview

Krista and Scott Hartman

Red River Wines and Provisions

Demerit and Gold Star

DEMERIT:

none this episode

GOLD STARS:

none this episode

Special Thanks

Need lodging in Fredericksburg? Check out Cork + Cactus!

Find Cork + Cactus and many more great rentals at Heavenly Hosts.com!

Thanks to Texas Wine Lover for promotional help! For the latest information on Texas wineries and vineyards, visit Texas Wine Lover. Don’t forget to download the Texas Wine Lover app too!

Podcast music is by Landon Lloyd Miller. Check him out on Spotify HERE

View Details

Mentioned in this Episode

Connect with the Podcast:

Facebook: @texaswinepod

Instagram: @texaswinepod

Email: texaswinepod@gmail.com

Show notes and more: www.thisistexaswine.com

Help the Show:

Subscribe to the newsletter.

Donate virtual Texas wine or join the podcast membership at the Gold Medal, Silver Medal, or Bronze Medal Level!

Leave a review on Spotify or Apple Podcasts!

Thanks to our sponsor Bending Branch Winery. Contact Jen at bendingbranchwinery.com for all of your custom crush winemaking needs!

Mentioned in this Episode

  1. Texas Hill Country Wine Industry Awards
  2. 2025 Winners from TopTexasWines.com
  3. Texas Results from San Francisco Chronicle Wine Competition
  4. William Chris Vineyards’ Enchante makes Decanter List of Top 50 Wines in the US for 2025- paywall
  5. New Tasting Rooms for Jaclynn Renee Wines (Wimberly) and Nobleman Wines (Glen Rose)

Hill Country Wine Symposium Closing Panel

Panelists:

Ron Yates, Ron Yates Wines and Spicewood Vineyards

Katy Jane Seaton, Farmhouse Vineyards

Jennifer Beckmann, Rerooted 210

Chris Brundrett, William Chris Wine Co.

Roxanne Meyers, Lost Oak Winery

John Rivenburgh, Kerrville Hills Winery

Demerit and Gold Star

DEMERIT:

none this episode

GOLD STARS:

none this episode

Special Thanks

Need lodging in Fredericksburg? Check out Cork + Cactus!

Find Cork + Cactus and many more great rentals at Heavenly Hosts.com!

Thanks to Texas Wine Lover for promotional help! For the latest information on Texas wineries and vineyards, visit Texas Wine Lover. Don’t forget to download the Texas Wine Lover app too!

Podcast music is by Landon Lloyd Miller. Check him out on Spotify HERE

View Details

Mentioned in this Episode

Connect with the Podcast:

Facebook: @texaswinepod

Instagram: @texaswinepod

Email: texaswinepod@gmail.com

Show notes and more: www.thisistexaswine.com

Help the Show:

Subscribe to the newsletter.

Donate virtual Texas wine or join the podcast membership at the Gold Medal, Silver Medal, or Bronze Medal Level!

Leave a review on Spotify or Apple Podcasts!

Mentioned in Top Texas Wine Stories of 2025

  1. This and more from JamesSuckling.com: “Bursting Out in All Directions: Texas 2025 Tasting Report”
  2. Texas wine in Decanter
  3. WineFolly guide to the Texas Hill Country
  4. Top 100 Wines and Texas wine coverage by Jonathan Cristaldi
  5. Texas Monthly Coverage including Paula Forbes for Texas Monthly: “Texas wine is better than ever. Why is it so hard to find?”
  6. Calais Winery #38 on JamesSuckling’s Top 100 Wines of the USA 2025 List
  7. Wine Business Monthly: “William Chris Vineyards Named Among the World’s 50 Best Vineyards – The First and Only Texas Winery on the List”
  8. Texas Winery Competition Results on TxWineLover.com
  9. TopTexasWines.com
  10. Texas Oak Aging Program at Bending Branch Winery
  11. The Get Together from Ron Yates: Premium Boxed Wine from Texas
  12. New Sparkling Wine Production Facility at Invention Vineyards
  13. Elisa Jones of Elisa Christopher Wines on Another Bottle Down Podcast
  14. Wine America’s Economic Impact Study 2025
  15. Tate Gregory’s Blog Post for Texas Wine Growers
  16. Texas High Plains Journal: “Texas vineyards report high quality wine grapes.”

2025 Texas Wine Pod Awards

Best Winery Marketing Effort: Triple N Ranch and Winery’s Longhorn Sculpture

Best New Event in North Texas: Drink North Texas by North Texas Wine Country

Best New Event in Hill Country - part one: Friesen Cab Franc-Off

Best New Event in Hill Country - part two: Walk Around Tasting by Rhone Rangers

Best Use of Technology in Texas Wine: Wine Style Selector Tool by VineSleuth / Wine4.me for Texas Hill Country Wineries

Best Response to a Tragedy: Rose to Rebuild by Texas Hill Country Wineries and Horseshoe Bay Resort

Best New Approach to Get Texas Wines on a Wine List: Texas Wine Growers’ Best of Texas Wine List

My Favorite Texas Wine of 2025: Carter Creek Winery’s 2024 Plateau White, Texas High Plains

Best News in Texas Wine Distribution: Wine For the People Label

Best Way to Celebrate the 12 Days of Christmas: Farmhouse Vineyards’ Wine Advent Calendar

Best Wine Substack Article: “No Prize for the Bedpan” by Regan Meador on Letters from Southold

Best Instagram Reel: The Austin Winery’s reel with Woven Places

Best New Wine Podcast: The Wine Lab by Dr Andreea Botezatu

Best Texas Wine News in the Rio Grande Valley: RGVino Wine Bar Opening

Best New Wine Club Model: Wine Atlas Collective

Best New Viticultural Project: One Block Challenge from Regenerative Viticulture Foundation

Demerit and Gold Star

DEMERIT:

none this episode

GOLD STARS:

none this episode

Special Thanks

Need lodging in Fredericksburg? Check out Cork + Cactus!

Find Cork + Cactus and many more great rentals at Heavenly Hosts.com!

Thanks to Texas Wine Lover for promotional help! For the latest information on Texas wineries and vineyards, visit Texas Wine Lover. Don’t forget to download the Texas Wine Lover app too!

Podcast music is by Landon Lloyd Miller. Check him out on Spotify HERE

View Details

Mentioned in this Episode

Connect with the Podcast:

Facebook: @texaswinepod

Instagram: @texaswinepod

Email: texaswinepod@gmail.com

Show notes and more: www.thisistexaswine.com

Help the Show:

Subscribe to the newsletter.

Donate virtual Texas wine or join the podcast membership at the Gold Medal, Silver Medal, or Bronze Medal Level!

Leave a review on Spotify or Apple Podcasts!

Texas Wine In the News

  1. JamesSuckling.com: “Bursting Out in All Directions: Texas 2025 Tasting Report”
  2. Houston Rodeo Uncorked! International Wine Competition Results from Texas Wine Lover
  3. Houston Rodeo Uncorked! International Wine Competition Rules & Procedures Handbook
  4. 2026 Fort Worth Stock Show & Rodeo Vine 2 Wine International Wine Competition Results from Texas Wine Lover
  5. Wine Business Monthly: “William Chris Vineyards Named Among the World’s 50 Best Vineyards – The First and Only Texas Winery on the List”
  6. The World’s 50 Best Vineyards: William Chris Vineyards
  7. Paula Forbes for Texas Monthly: “Texas wine is better than ever. Why is it so hard to find?”
  8. Wineries, claim your listing and consider membership at Texas Wine Lover - Signup Page

Interview with Rarig Ross of Ferris & Fletch Wine Co.

Ferris & Fletch Wine Co.

Demerit and Gold Star

DEMERIT:

none this episode

GOLD STARS:

none this episode

Special Thanks

Need lodging in Fredericksburg? Check out Cork + Cactus!
Find Cork + Cactus and many more great rentals at Heavenly Hosts.com!

Thanks to Texas Wine Lover for promotional help! For the latest information on Texas wineries and vineyards, visit Texas Wine Lover. Don’t forget to download the Texas Wine Lover app too!

Podcast music is by Landon Lloyd Miller. Check him out on Spotify HERE

View Details

Mentioned in this Episode

Connect with the Podcast:

Facebook: @texaswinepod

Instagram: @texaswinepod

Email: texaswinepod@gmail.com

Show notes and more: www.thisistexaswine.com

Help the Show:

Subscribe to the newsletter.

Donate virtual Texas wine or join the podcast membership at the Gold Medal, Silver Medal, or Bronze Medal Level!

Leave a review on Spotify or Apple Podcasts!

Texas Wine In the News

  1. Hill Country Real Estate Development with Vineyards
  2. The Crush Pad by Veesart Cellars
  3. Station & Vine Wine Bar Coming Soon in Fort Worth
  4. Michelin Starred Isidore in San Antonio Features Texas Wines
  5. Chef Dominique Crenn Partners with Waldorf Astoria Texas Hill Country
  6. Cabernet Grill is a Trip Advisor Best Date Night Restaurant
  7. Tyler’s Heritage East Receives Wine Spectator’s 2025 Award of Excellence and Features Texas Wines
  8. Texas Fine Wine Holiday Bundle and Soiree at Bending Branch Winery: TICKETS
  9. GO TEXAN Explores - Texas Wine: On Spotify
  10. GO TEXAN Explores - Texas Wine: On Apple Podcasts
  11. Gainesville Wine and Country Festival in North Texas on November 22
  12. Wineries, claim your listing and consider membership at Texas Wine Lover - Signup Page

Interview with Melissa Whatley of Whatley Wines

Whatley Wines

Demerit and Gold Star

DEMERIT:

none this episode

GOLD STARS:

none this episode

Special Thanks

Need lodging in Fredericksburg? Check out Cork + Cactus!
Find Cork + Cactus and many more great rentals at Heavenly Hosts.com!

Thanks to Texas Wine Lover for promotional help! For the latest information on Texas wineries and vineyards, visit Texas Wine Lover. Don’t forget to download the Texas Wine Lover app too!

Podcast music is by Landon Lloyd Miller. Check him out on Spotify HERE

Wine & Food Foundation

I’m so happy to be part of the community of wine and food lovers at The Wine & Food Foundation! Get more information about upcoming events, wine education classes, and membership options here.

View Details

Mentioned in this Episode

Connect with the Podcast:

Facebook: @texaswinepod

Instagram: @texaswinepod

Email: texaswinepod@gmail.com

Show notes and more: www.thisistexaswine.com

Help the Show:

Subscribe to the newsletter.

Donate virtual Texas wine or join the podcast membership at the Gold Medal, Silver Medal, or Bronze Medal Level!

Leave a review on Spotify or Apple Podcasts!

Texas Wine In the News

  1. Hill Country Winery Getaways by John Griffin
  2. Killer Vintage: A West Texas Wine Thriller by Eric Sanchez
  3. VinePair asked 13 Wine Pros: What’s the Most Underrated American Wine Region?
  4. Texas Fine Wine Holiday Bundle and Soiree at Bending Branch Winery: TICKETS
  5. GO TEXAN Explores - Texas Wine: On Spotify
  6. GO TEXAN Explores - Texas Wine: On Apple Podcasts
  7. North Texas Wine Country Passport Event Happening Now! TICKETS and INFO
  8. Texas Hill Country Wineries Passport Event Happening Now! TICKETS and INFO
  9. Texas Wine Jam by Vinovium on November 1 in Johnson City TICKETS and INFO . Use code TWJLove10 for 10% off.
  10. Gainesville Wine and Country Festival in North Texas on November 22
  11. Join me at Fredericksburg Food and Wine Festival starting October 21 in Fredericksburg!
  12. Wineries, claim your listing and consider membership at Texas Wine Lover - Signup Page

Interview with JeriLynne Clifford, The Hill Country Bon Vivant

Hill Country Bon Vivant

Order The Vineyard Table HERE

Demerit and Gold Star

DEMERIT:

GOLD STARS:

Ross and Mariana Burtwell of Cabernet Grill win the Doc McPherson Award

Special Thanks

Need lodging in Fredericksburg? Check out Cork + Cactus!

Find Cork + Cactus and many more great rentals at Heavenly Hosts.com!

Thanks to Texas Wine Lover for promotional help! For the latest information on Texas wineries and vineyards, visit Texas Wine Lover. Don’t forget to download the Texas Wine Lover app too!

Podcast music is by Landon Lloyd Miller. Check him out on Spotify HERE

Wine & Food Foundation

I’m so happy to be part of the community of wine and food lovers at The Wine & Food Foundation! Get more information about upcoming events, wine education classes, and membership options here.

View Details

Mentioned in this Episode

Connect with the Podcast:

Facebook: @texaswinepod

Instagram: @texaswinepod

Email: texaswinepod@gmail.com

Show notes and more: www.thisistexaswine.com

Help the Show:

Subscribe to the newsletter.

Donate virtual Texas wine or join the podcast membership at the Gold Medal, Silver Medal, or Bronze Medal Level!

Leave a review on Spotify or Apple Podcasts!

Texas Wine In the News

  1. GO TEXAN Explores - Texas Wine: On Spotify
  2. GO TEXAN Explores - Texas Wine: On Apple Podcasts
  3. Paula Forbes for Texas Monthly: “Texas Wine Is Growing Up”
  4. Texas Monthly / Uncork Texas Wines 2025 Vintners Cup RESULTS
  5. Buy a mixed case of the 2025 Vintners Cup Winners HERE
  6. Triple N Ranch and Winery’s Wine and Music Festival / Longhorn Sculpture Homecoming TICKETS
  7. Calais Winery #38 on James Suckling’s list of Top 100 US Wines in 2025
  8. Jonathan Cristaldi for Decanter: “Discover why Texas Wine is Poised for Prime Time”
  9. William Chris Vineyards Makes VinePair’s list of The 20 Best Merlots for 2025
  10. Results from Texas Hill Country Wineries Rose to Rebuild
  11. Ron Yates Wines’ The Get Together boxed wines makes ATX Monthly’s Best of Dining and Nightlife list, named best affordable libation.
  12. Julie Kuhlken of Pedernales Cellars interviewed by Jessica Dupuy on Italian Wine Podcast
  13. Texas Wine Growers presents Best of Texas Wine List
  14. North Texas Wine Country Passport Event Happening Now! TICKETS and INFO
  15. Texas Hill Country Wineries Passport Event Happening Now! TICKETS and INFO
  16. Texas Wine Jam by Vinovium on November 1 in Johnson City TICKETS and INFO . Use code TWJLove10 for 10% off.
  17. Gainesville Wine and Country Festival in North Texas on November 22
  18. Join me at Fredericksburg Food and Wine Festival starting October 21 in Fredericksburg!
  19. Wineries, claim your listing and consider membership at Texas Wine Lover - Signup Page

Interview with Amy Gross

Wine4.me

Texas Hill Country Wineries Wine Style Selector Tool

Women for WineSense

San Antonio CultureMap: “Bumble for Texas Grapes”

Demerit and Gold Star

DEMERIT:

GOLD STARS:

Special Thanks

Need lodging in Fredericksburg? Check out Cork + Cactus!

Find Cork + Cactus and many more great rentals at Heavenly Hosts.com!

Thanks to Texas Wine Lover for promotional help! For the latest information on Texas wineries and vineyards, visit Texas Wine Lover. Don’t forget to download the Texas Wine Lover app too!

Podcast music is by Landon Lloyd Miller. Check him out on Spotify HERE

Wine & Food Foundation

I’m so happy to be part of the community of wine and food lovers at The Wine & Food Foundation! Get more information about upcoming events, wine education classes, and membership options here.

View Details

Mentioned in this Episode

Connect with the Podcast:

Facebook: @texaswinepod

Instagram: @texaswinepod

Email: texaswinepod@gmail.com

Show notes and more: www.thisistexaswine.com

Help the Show:

Subscribe to the newsletter.

Donate virtual Texas wine or join the podcast membership at the Gold Medal, Silver Medal, or Bronze Medal Level!

Leave a review on Spotify or Apple Podcasts!

Sponsor Spotlight

Looking for the ultimate Texas wine country escape that combines wellness and wine? Join Vino Vinyasa from October 10–12 for their third annual yoga and wine retreat in Fredericksburg! Led by founder and local insider Morgan Perry, this one-of-a-kind weekend includes daily yoga, including at a winery and Enchanted Rock, wine tastings at five award-winning vineyards, top-notch meals, luxe lodging, and all transportation. With only 10 attendees, it’s sure to sell out soon. Act fast and get more information at vinovinyasayoga.com

Texas Wine In the News

  1. Wine Folly: Texas Hill Country Regional Guide
  2. The Wine Lab podcast by Dr. Andreea Botezatu
  3. Food and Wine: Re:Rooted 210 mentioned in San Antonio’s recognition as an emerging US food city
  4. Brother-sister duo takes over East Texas winery and vineyard
  5. Texas Hill Country Wineries presents Rose to Rebuild to benefit flood recovery. September 6 in Horseshoe Bay.
  6. Announcing Spirits of the East on September 19–20 at FarOut Dallas.
  7. Wineries, claim your listing and consider membership at Texas Wine Lover - Signup Page

Interview with Ron Yates

Ron Yates Wines

Spicewood Vineyards

The Get Together Wine

Summer Sippin’ Experience

Demerit and Gold Star

DEMERIT:

Stephanie, the winery ghost at Charleston Taylor Estate Winery

GOLD STARS:

Fredericksburg Food and Wine Fest Preview Week

CL Butaud’s Va Va Vino Burlesque event

Special Thanks

Need lodging in Fredericksburg? Check out Cork + Cactus!

Find Cork + Cactus and many more great rentals at Heavenly Hosts.com!

Thanks to Texas Wine Lover for promotional help! For the latest information on Texas wineries and vineyards, visit Texas Wine Lover. Don’t forget to download the Texas Wine Lover app too!

Wine & Food Foundation

I’m so happy to be part of the community of wine and food lovers at The Wine & Food Foundation! Get more information about upcoming events, wine education classes, and membership options here.

View Details

Mentioned in this Episode

Connect with the Podcast:

Facebook: @texaswinepod

Instagram: @texaswinepod

Email: texaswinepod@gmail.com

Visit www.thisistexaswine.com

Help the Show:

Subscribe to the newsletter.

Donate virtual Texas wine or join the podcast membership at the Gold Medal, Silver Medal, or Bronze Medal Level!

Leave a review on Spotify or Apple Podcasts!

Sponsor Spotlight

Looking for the ultimate Texas wine country escape that combines wellness and wine? Join Vino Vinyasa from October 10–12 for their third annual yoga and wine retreat in Fredericksburg! Led by founder and local insider Morgan Perry, this one-of-a-kind weekend includes daily yoga, including at a winery and Enchanted Rock, wine tastings at five award-winning vineyards, top-notch meals, luxe lodging, and all transportation. With only 10 attendees, it’s sure to sell out soon. Act fast and get more information at vinovinyasayoga.com

Texas Wine In the News

  1. FBG Food and Wine Fest Preview Week to Support Flood Relief: TICKETS
  2. Community Foundation’s Kerr County Flood Relief Fund
  3. Mercy Chefs: Texas Flood Response
  4. United Methodist Church Disaster Relief: Guadalupe River Flood
  5. Give blood!
  6. New podcast music by Landon Lloyd Miller and @landonlloydmiller on Instagram
  7. Texas Hill Country Wineries List of Texas Wineries’ recovery fundraising efforts
  8. Texas Hill Country Wineries Clean Up Supply Donation Drive
  9. William Chris Vineyards part of new wine nationwide wine club Wine Atlas Collective
  10. Michael Huband for The Drinks Business: “Why one winery is banking on fizz in the heart of Texas”
  11. Wineries, claim your listing and consider membership at Texas Wine Lover - Signup Page

Interview with Claire Richardson

Uplift Vineyard

Grafted

Explore Oeno

Demerit and Gold Star

None this time!

Special Thanks

Need lodging in Fredericksburg? Check out Cork + Cactus!

Find Cork + Cactus and many more great rentals at Heavenly Hosts.com!

Thanks to Texas Wine Lover for promotional help! For the latest information on Texas wineries and vineyards, visit Texas Wine Lover. Don’t forget to download the Texas Wine Lover app too!

Wine & Food Foundation

I’m so happy to be part of the community of wine and food lovers at The Wine & Food Foundation! Get more information about upcoming events, wine education classes, and membership options here.

View Details

Mentioned in this Episode

Connect with the Podcast:

Facebook: @texaswinepod

Instagram: @texaswinepod

Email: texaswinepod@gmail.com

Visit www.thisistexaswine.com

Help the Show:

Subscribe to the newsletter.

Donate virtual Texas wine or join the podcast membership at the Gold Medal, Silver Medal, or Bronze Medal Level!

Leave a review on Spotify or Apple Podcasts!

Texas Wine In the News

  1. Silicon Valley Bank Report on DTC Shipping Reported by The Drinks Business: “Smaller wineries lead economic turnaround in the US”
  2. Brittany Brillo Garley for Eater Houston: “The Texas Michelin-Recognized Sommelier Who Is Allergic to Wine”
  3. Wes Marshall for The Austin Chronicle: "Nine Texas Wines Receive Decanter Awards
  4. Wineries, claim your listing and consider membership at Texas Wine Lover - Signup Page

Interview with Andrew Sides of Lost Draw Wines

Lost Draw Wines

Demerit and Gold Star

Gold Star:

Fredericksburg’s Food and Drink (Wine!) Scene for being included in Food and Wine Magazine’s recent article “The Top Small US Cities for Food and Drink”

Special Thanks

Need lodging in Fredericksburg? Check out Cork + Cactus!

Find Cork + Cactus and many more great rentals at Heavenly Hosts.com!

Thanks to Texas Wine Lover for promotional help! For the latest information on Texas wineries and vineyards, visit Texas Wine Lover. Don’t forget to download the Texas Wine Lover app too!

Wine & Food Foundation

I’m so happy to be part of the community of wine and food lovers at The Wine & Food Foundation! Get more information about upcoming events, wine education classes, and membership options here.

View Details

Mentioned in this Episode

Connect with the Podcast:

Facebook: @texaswinepod

Instagram: @texaswinepod

Email: texaswinepod@gmail.com

Visit www.thisistexaswine.com

Help the Show:

Subscribe to the newsletter.

Donate virtual Texas wine or join the podcast membership at the Gold Medal, Silver Medal, or Bronze Medal Level!

Leave a review on Spotify or Apple Podcasts!

Texas Wine In the News

  1. Christina Pickard for Wine Enthusiast: “5 Wine Regions Vying to Become the Next Napa”
  2. Andrew Hodge for Lufkin Daily News: “East Texas Wine Country: Regional Wineries are Drawing a Crowd”
  3. 4R Ranch Vineyards and Winery receives big award from Hipcamp
  4. Carter Creek Winery Resort featured in PBS “Hidden Gems of the Texas Hill Country”
  5. Grapevine City Council Denies Grape Creek Vineyards’ Permit for Main Street Tasting Room
  6. Grafted event on June 17. Find it on Instagram at @grafted\_tx
  7. June 24 Texas Wine Growers Industry Seminar and Consumer Tasting in Mansfield (North Texas)
  8. Toast of Texas 2025 is on June 8 in Austin! Visit Wine & Food Foundation for ticket and membership information. Code: Texaswine2025
  9. Wineries, claim your listing and consider membership at Texas Wine Lover - Signup Page
  10. Enter to be considered for the Texas Monthly / Texas Department of Agriculture’s 2025 Texas Vintners Cup

Interview with January Wiese of Texas Hill Country Wineries

Texas Hill Country Wineries

Demerit and Gold Star

Gold Star:

Instagram post from @wallawallavintners

Special Thanks

Need lodging in Fredericksburg? Check out Cork + Cactus!

Find Cork + Cactus and many more great rentals at Heavenly Hosts.com!

Thanks to Texas Wine Lover for promotional help! For the latest information on Texas wineries and vineyards, visit Texas Wine Lover. Don’t forget to download the Texas Wine Lover app too!

Wine & Food Foundation

I’m so happy to be part of the community of wine and food lovers at The Wine & Food Foundation! Get more information about upcoming events, wine education classes, and membership options here.

View Details

Mentioned in this Episode

Connect with the Podcast:

Facebook: @texaswinepod

Instagram: @texaswinepod

Email: texaswinepod@gmail.com

Visit www.thisistexaswine.com

Help the Show:

Subscribe to the newsletter.

Donate virtual Texas wine or join the podcast membership at the Gold Medal, Silver Medal, or Bronze Medal Level!

Leave a review on Spotify or Apple Podcasts!

Texas Wine In the News

  1. Wine America’s New Statistics on the Texas Wine Industry
  2. Dr Justin Scheiner to Receive the 2025 ASEV Extension Distinction Award
  3. Dr Julie Kuhlken awarded Austin Woman’s Woman’s Way Business Award
  4. Dr Colleen Myles for Forbes.com: “Exploring The ‘Gem’ Of Far West Texas, Dell Valley Vineyards”
  5. Amy Beth Wright for Wine Enthusiast: “Is Your Local Wine Actually Local? It’s not so simple.”
  6. Kate Dingwall for Wine Enthusiast: “One of the Wine World’s Most Divisive Topics? Commercial vs. Native Yeast”
  7. June 24 Texas Wine Growers Industry Seminar and Consumer Tasting in Mansfield (North Texas)
  8. Drink North Texas on May 31 in Dallas
  9. Toast of Texas 2025 is on June 8 in Austin! Visit Wine & Food Foundation for ticket and membership information.
  10. Wineries, claim your listing and consider membership at Texas Wine Lover - Signup Page
  11. Enter to be considered for the Texas Monthly / Texas Department of Agriculture’s 2025 Texas Vintners Cup
  12. Farm Winery Permit legislation

Interview with Doug Lewis of Lewis Wines

Lewis Wines

Demerit and Gold Star

Gold Star:

Innovative events to drive traffic. From mahjong to music series and more! Keep up the creative outreach to find new customers.

Special Thanks

Need lodging in Fredericksburg? Check out Cork + Cactus!

Find Cork + Cactus and many more great rentals at Heavenly Hosts.com!

Thanks to Texas Wine Lover for promotional help! For the latest information on Texas wineries and vineyards, visit Texas Wine Lover. Don’t forget to download the Texas Wine Lover app too!

Wine & Food Foundation

I’m so happy to be part of the community of wine and food lovers at The Wine & Food Foundation! Get more information about upcoming events, wine education classes, and membership options here.

View Details

Mentioned in this Episode

Connect with the Podcast:

Facebook: @texaswinepod

Instagram: @texaswinepod

Email: texaswinepod@gmail.com

Visit www.thisistexaswine.com

Help the Show:

Subscribe to the newsletter.

Donate virtual Texas wine or join the podcast membership at the Gold Medal, Silver Medal, or Bronze Medal Level!

Leave a review on Spotify or Apple Podcasts!

Texas Wine In the News

  1. James Bickerton for Newsweek: “Texas Wine is Soaring in Popularity”
  2. Tom R Capo for Wine Enthusiast: “As Texas Wine Explodes, These Are the 7 Grapes to Watch”
  3. Amy Beth Wright for Wine Enthusiast: “Is Local Wood the Key to Terroir? Some American Winemakers Say ‘Yes’”
  4. Texas Hill Country Wineries presents Barrels and Bites
  5. Garden Fete by Texas Wine Growers and Texas Mariculture Oyster Association in San Antonio on May 10
  6. Sage’s Vintage Symposium May 20 in Nacogdoches! Register Here
  7. Drink North Texas on May 31 in Dallas
  8. Toast of Texas 2025 is on June 8! Visit Wine & Food Foundation for ticket and membership information.
  9. Wineries, claim your listing and consider membership at Texas Wine Lover - Signup Page
  10. Enter Finger Lakes International Wine Competition
  11. Enter TWGGA’s Lone Star International Wine Competition
  12. Enter to be considered for the Texas Monthly / Texas Department of Agriculture’s 2025 Texas Vintners Cup

Interview with Remi and Tate Gregory of The Burg Wine Company

The Burg Wine Company

Demerit and Gold Star

Gold Star: Edge of the Lake Vineyard for hosting a Texas Wine Specialist course for North Texas wineries. Cheers to Texas wine education!

Special Thanks

Need lodging in Fredericksburg? Check out Cork + Cactus!

Find Cork + Cactus and many more great rentals at Heavenly Hosts.com!

Thanks to Texas Wine Lover for promotional help! For the latest information on Texas wineries and vineyards, visit Texas Wine Lover. Don’t forget to download the Texas Wine Lover app too!

Wine & Food Foundation

I’m so happy to be part of the community of wine and food lovers at The Wine & Food Foundation! Get more information about upcoming events, wine education classes, and membership options here.

View Details

Mentioned in this Episode

Connect with the Podcast:

Facebook: @texaswinepod

Instagram: @texaswinepod

Email: texaswinepod@gmail.com

Visit www.thisistexaswine.com

Help the Show:

Subscribe to the newsletter.

Donate virtual Texas wine or join the podcast membership at the Gold Medal, Silver Medal, or Bronze Medal Level!

Leave a review on Spotify or Apple Podcasts!

Texas Wine In the News

  1. Fall Creek Vineyards Sold to Sergio Cuadra: LINK
  2. Watch/Read Farm Winery Permit Hearing HERE
  3. Kelly Magyarics for SevenFifty Daily: What to Know About 6 Newly Proposed AVAs
  4. Introducing Buli Limestone: LINK to Texas Wine Lover website
  5. Drink North Texas Wine Festival on May 31 in Dallas
  6. Sage’s Vintage Symposium May 20 in Nacogdoches! Register Here
  7. Texas Wine Auction 2025
  8. Wineries, claim your listing and consider membership at Texas Wine Lover - Signup Page
  9. Toast of Texas 2025 is on June 8! Visit Wine & Food Foundation for ticket and membership information.

Interview with Brian Heath of Heath Family Brands

Heath Family Brands

Demerit and Gold Star

Gold Star: Letters from Southold Substack from Reagan Meador, winemaker formerly of Texas, now residing in Bordeaux

Special Thanks

Need lodging in Fredericksburg? Check out Cork + Cactus!

Find Cork + Cactus and many more great rentals at Heavenly Hosts.com!

Thanks to Texas Wine Lover for promotional help! For the latest information on Texas wineries and vineyards, visit Texas Wine Lover. Don’t forget to download the Texas Wine Lover app too!

Wine & Food Foundation

I’m so happy to be part of the community of wine and food lovers at The Wine & Food Foundation! Get more information about upcoming events, wine education classes, and membership options here.

View Details

Mentioned in this Episode

Connect with the Podcast:

Facebook: @texaswinepod

Instagram: @texaswinepod

Email: texaswinepod@gmail.com

Visit www.thisistexaswine.com

Help the Show:

Subscribe to the newsletter.

Donate virtual Texas wine or join the podcast membership at the Gold Medal, Silver Medal, or Bronze Medal Level!

Leave a review on Spotify or Apple Podcasts!

Texas Wine In the News

  1. JamesSuckling.com: Texas 2025 Tasting Report: A Declaration of Wine Independence
  2. New Owners of Noblemen Wines: Copper Rose Wine. Follow them on Instagram at @copperrosewine
  3. Drink Texas Wine HERE: ACE Wine Room in Bandera
  4. Drink Texas Wine HERE: RGVino in Hidalgo
  5. Drink North Texas Wine Festival on May 31 in Dallas
  6. 2025 TEXSOM Awards Results
  7. Jillian Dara for Forbes: 10 American Rieslings To Know, From New York To Napa Valley
  8. Watch Sage’s Vintage social media for signups for the May 20 Sage’s Symposium in Nacogdoches! @sagesvintage
  9. Rootstock 2025 is on April 6! Featuring wines from Spain! LINK for tickets. Use code SHELLY for 10% off!
  10. Texas Wine Auction 2025
  11. Wineries, claim your listing and consider membership at Texas Wine Lover - Signup Page
  12. Toast of Texas 2025 is on June 8! Visit Wine & Food Foundation for ticket and membership information.
  13. Rhone Rangers Visit Texas! LINK for tickets to the consumer event on April 6 at 12:30 PM in Hye at William Chris Vineyards.
  14. Rhone Rangers winemaker panel and tasting on April 6 at 10 AM at Halter Ranch in Fredericksburg TICKETS
  15. Rhone Rangers Trade and Media Day is in Austin at Wanderlust on Shady Lane on April 8. LINK

Interview with Dr. Akhil Reddy of Reddy Vineyards

Reddy Vineyards

Reddy Wines and House of Reddy tasting room

Demerit and Gold Star

NA

Special Thanks

Need lodging in Fredericksburg? Check out Cork + Cactus!

Find Cork + Cactus and many more great rentals at Heavenly Hosts.com!

Thanks to Texas Wine Lover for promotional help! For the latest information on Texas wineries and vineyards, visit Texas Wine Lover. Don’t forget to download the Texas Wine Lover app too!

Wine & Food Foundation

I’m so happy to be part of the community of wine and food lovers at The Wine & Food Foundation! Get more information about upcoming events, wine education classes, and membership options here.

View Details

Mentioned in this Episode

Connect with the Podcast:

Facebook: @texaswinepod

Instagram: @texaswinepod

Email: texaswinepod@gmail.com

Visit www.thisistexaswine.com

Help the Show:

Subscribe to the newsletter.

Donate virtual Texas wine or join the podcast membership at the Gold Medal, Silver Medal, or Bronze Medal Level!

Leave a review on Spotify or Apple Podcasts!

Texas Wine In the News

  1. TWGGA Award Recipients
  2. Texas Wine Auction 2025
  3. Wineries, claim your listing and consider membership at Texas Wine Lover - Signup Page
  4. Rootstock 2025 is on April 6! Featuring wines from Spain! LINK for tickets. Use code SHELLY for 10% off!
  5. Toast of Texas 2025 is on June 8! Visit Wine & Food Foundation for ticket and membership information.
  6. Rhone Rangers Visit Texas! LINK for tickets to the consumer event on April 6 at 12:30 PM in Hye at William Chris Vineyards.
  7. Rhone Rangers winemaker panel and tasting on April 6 at 10 AM at Halter Ranch in Fredericksburg TICKETS
  8. Rhone Rangers Trade and Media Day is in Austin at Wanderlust on Shady Lane on April 8. LINK
  9. Learn more about the Rhone Rangers HERE
  10. Larry Schaffer of Tercero Wines is president of the board of directors of the Rhone Rangers.

Interview with Dr. Bob Young of Bending Branch Winery

Bending Branch Winery

Tickets for June 7 tasting event in Comfort

Demerit and Gold Star

NA

Special Thanks

Need lodging in Fredericksburg? Check out Cork + Cactus!

Find Cork + Cactus and many more great rentals at Heavenly Hosts.com!

Thanks to Texas Wine Lover for promotional help! For the latest information on Texas wineries and vineyards, visit Texas Wine Lover. Don’t forget to download the Texas Wine Lover app too!

Wine & Food Foundation

I’m so happy to be part of the community of wine and food lovers at The Wine & Food Foundation! Get more information about upcoming events, wine education classes, and membership options here.

View Details

Mentioned in this Episode

Connect with the Podcast:

Facebook: @texaswinepod

Instagram: @texaswinepod

Email: texaswinepod@gmail.com

Visit www.thisistexaswine.com

Help the Show:

Subscribe to the newsletter.

Donate virtual Texas wine or join the podcast membership at the Gold Medal, Silver Medal, or Bronze Medal Level!

Leave a review on Spotify or Apple Podcasts!

Texas Wine In the News

  1. William Chris Wine Company Announces Strategic Shift as Lost Draw Wines Embarks on Its Next Chapter
  2. Amy Beth Wright for SevenFifty Daily: The Science of Old Vines
  3. Texas Hill Country Wineries Joins as Founding Member of The Global Artisan Vintners Alliance
  4. Wineries, claim your listing and consider membership at Texas Wine Lover - Signup Page
  5. Texas Wine School: Specialist in Texas Wine - Levels I and II
  6. Rootstock 2025 is on April 6! Featuring wines from Spain! LINK for tickets. Use code SHELLY for 10% off!
  7. Toast of Texas 2025 is on June 8! Visit Wine & Food Foundation for ticket and membership information.
  8. Rhone Rangers Visit Texas! LINK for tickets to the consumer event on April 6 in Hye at William Chris Vineyards.
  9. Rhone Rangers Trade and Media Day is in Austin on April 8. LINK

Interview with Jackie van Sant Downes

Driftwood Estate Winery

Jaclynn Renee Wines

Demerit and Gold Star

NA

Special Thanks

Need lodging in Fredericksburg? Check out Cork + Cactus!

Find Cork + Cactus and many more great rentals at Heavenly Hosts.com!

Thanks to Texas Wine Lover for promotional help! For the latest information on Texas wineries and vineyards, visit Texas Wine Lover. Don’t forget to download the Texas Wine Lover app too!

Wine & Food Foundation

I’m so happy to be part of the community of wine and food lovers at The Wine & Food Foundation! Get more information about upcoming events, wine education classes, and membership options here.

View Details

Mentioned in this Episode

Connect with the Podcast:

Facebook: @texaswinepod

Instagram: @texaswinepod

Email: texaswinepod@gmail.com

Visit www.thisistexaswine.com

Help the Show:

Subscribe to the newsletter.

Donate virtual Texas wine or join the podcast membership at the Gold Medal, Silver Medal, or Bronze Medal Level!

Leave a review on Spotify or Apple Podcasts!

Texas Wine In the News

  1. Llano Estacado Winery Sells to New Investor Group
  2. Bending Branch Winery Named Hot Brand of 2024 by Wine Business Monthly
  3. TAMU Wine Science and Viticulture Certificate Program
  4. Texas Wine School: Specialist in Texas Wine - Levels I and II
  5. Awards from Recent Hill Country Wine Symposium for Kim McPherson, Kelsey Kramer and John Rivenburgh
  6. Wine Business Monthly: US Winery Count Declines Slightly (But Texas is up!)
  7. Forbes.com: The Best White Wines According to San Francisco International Wine Competition
  8. Forbes.com: The Best Bordeaux Blends from the San Francisco International Wine Competition
  9. Singing Water Vineyards wins big with $90+ Cabernet Sauvignon from Alexander Valley - LINK
  10. Rootstock 2025 is on April 6! Featuring wines from Spain! LINK for tickets. Use code SHELLY for 10% off!
  11. Toast of Texas 2025 is on June 8! Visit Wine & Food Foundation for ticket and membership information.
  12. Rhone Rangers Visit Texas! LINK for tickets to the consumer event on April 6 in Hye at William Chris Vineyards.
  13. Rhone Rangers Trade and Media Day is in Austin on April 8. LINK

Interview with Bryan Chagoly

TopTexasWines.com

Texas Wine Growers

Texas Wine & Grape Growers Association

Sandy Road Vineyards

Demerit and Gold Star

NA

Special Thanks

Need lodging in Fredericksburg? Check out Cork + Cactus!

Find Cork + Cactus and many more great rentals at Heavenly Hosts.com!

Thanks to Texas Wine Lover for promotional help! For the latest information on Texas wineries and vineyards, visit Texas Wine Lover. Don’t forget to download the Texas Wine Lover app too!

Wine & Food Foundation

I’m so happy to be part of the community of wine and food lovers at The Wine & Food Foundation! Get more information about upcoming events, wine education classes, and membership options here.

View Details

Mentioned in this Episode

Connect with the Podcast:

Facebook: @texaswinepod

Instagram: @texaswinepod

Email: texaswinepod@gmail.com

Visit www.thisistexaswine.com

Help the Show:

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Texas Wine In the News

  1. James Suckling Report
  2. Cristaldi & Co Report
  3. Houston Rodeo’s Wine Competition Results
  4. Amy Beth Wright for Wine Enthusiast: “In Texoma AVA, a Spirit of Experimentation Drives Growth”
  5. HEB’s Dan Schuette Receives the Clinton ‘Doc’ McPherson Award
  6. Roger Morris for The Drinks Business:“What Does the Future Hold for Texas Wine?”
  7. Stagecoach Wine Trail - January Trail Event!
  8. The Chalk Report: Profile of Fearing’s Sommelier Paul Botamer

Interview with Valerie Elkins

William Chris Wine Company

Use code earlybird2025 to get $20 off tickets to the Texas Wine Auction - offer expires 12/31/24

Texas Wine Growers

Grafted

Gold Star

NA

Special Thanks

Need lodging in Fredericksburg? Check out Cork + Cactus!

Find Cork + Cactus and many more great rentals at Heavenly Hosts.com!

Thanks to Texas Wine Lover for promotional help! For the latest information on Texas wineries and vineyards, visit Texas Wine Lover. Don’t forget to download the Texas Wine Lover app too!

Wine & Food Foundation

I’m so happy to be part of the community of wine and food lovers at The Wine & Food Foundation! Get more information about upcoming events, wine education classes, and membership options here.

View Details

Mentioned in this Episode

Connect with the Podcast:

Facebook: @texaswinepod

Instagram: @texaswinepod

Email: texaswinepod@gmail.com

Visit www.thisistexaswine.com

Help the Show:

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Texas Wine Gift Guide

  1. Outing to Hike at Diamond Vineyard in Fredericksburg
  2. Outing to Mountain Bike at 4R Ranch and WInery in Muenster (North Texas
  3. Outing to do yoga at Fall Creek Vineyard with Vino Vinyasa
  4. Farmhouse 4 Gift Guide
  5. Go Texan Gift Guide
  6. Shelly’s Fav Black Tee at The Cause Urban Winery
  7. TEXOMA Tee available at Edge of the Lake Vineyard
  8. Cheers Y’all Tee available at Farmhouse Vineyards
  9. Texas Hill Country Wineries Hat available through at local wineries
  10. Shelly’s Fav Rainbow Hat available atWine For The People
  11. Texas Wineries for Sale - LINK
  12. Don’t forget about gift certificates to Texas wine-focused restaurants, tasting rooms and bars!
  13. Tickets to Texas Wine Auction - Use code earlybird2025 for $20 off tickets through 12/31/24
  14. Texas Wine Education through Hill Country Wine Academy or The Texas Wine School
  15. Case of wine that won 2024 Vintner’s Cup - LINK
  16. Sparkling wine from Elisa Christopher Wines and Dry Comal Creek
  17. Wine subscription club at Ab Astris Winery
  18. Library Wines from William Chris Vineyards
  19. GSM Tasting Flight! Grenache from Edge of the Lake Vineyard, Syrah from Arche Wines, Mourvedre from Blue Ostrich Winery and Vino Tinto red blend from Red River Wines and Provisions.
  20. Luxury Blind Tasting with Inwood Estates Vineyards and Vega Sicilia Unico Grand Reserve.
  21. Next year, don’t miss the 4-bottle bundle from Texas Fine Wine
  22. Next year, plan ahead to ride the Christmas Wine Train in Grapevine.
  23. Check calendars for wineries near you! Don’t miss special holiday events and sales.

No interview this episode!

Gold Star

Special Thanks

Need lodging in Fredericksburg? Check out Cork + Cactus!

Find Cork + Cactus and many more great rentals at Heavenly Hosts.com!

Thanks to Texas Wine Lover for promotional help! For the latest information on Texas wineries and vineyards, visit Texas Wine Lover. Don’t forget to download the Texas Wine Lover app too!

Wine & Food Foundation

I’m so happy to be part of the community of wine and food lovers at The Wine & Food Foundation! Get more information about upcoming events, wine education classes, and membership options here.

View Details

Mentioned in this Episode

Connect with the Podcast:

Facebook: @texaswinepod

Instagram: @texaswinepod

Email: texaswinepod@gmail.com

Visit www.thisistexaswine.com

Help the Show:

Subscribe to the newsletter.

Donate virtual Texas wine or join the podcast membership at the Gold Medal, Silver Medal, or Bronze Medal Level!

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Texas Wine News

  1. Winners of the Texas Monthly / Texas Department of Agriculture’s Vintners Cup 2024
  2. William Chris Vineyards included in World’s Best Vineyards Listx3
  3. Introducing Friesen Cellars
  4. Amy Beth Wright for SevenFifty Daily: The Science of Heat Stress in Grapevines
  5. Liz Thach MW for WineBusiness.com: The Fighting and Innovative Spirit of Award Winning Texas Winemakers
  6. LM Archer for The Drinks Business: Does Texas have fine wine potential?
  7. Order the Texas Fine Wine Holiday Bundle - LINK
  8. Fort Worth Stock Show and Rodeo’s Vine 2 Wine Competition Results -LINK
  9. Mike Dunne’s article about the FWSSR competition - LINK
  10. San Antonio Stock Show and Rodeo Wine Competition Results - LINK

Interview with Chris McIntosh of Edge of the Lake Vineyard

Edge of the Lake Vineyard

North Texas Wine Country

Gainesville Wine & Country Festival - Nov 23 2024

Gold Star

Fredericksburg Food & Wine Festival

Special Thanks

Need lodging in Fredericksburg? Check out Cork + Cactus!

Find Cork + Cactus and many more great rentals at Heavenly Hosts.com!

Thanks to Texas Wine Lover for promotional help! For the latest information on Texas wineries and vineyards, visit Texas Wine Lover. Don’t forget to download the Texas Wine Lover app too!

Wine & Food Foundation

I’m so happy to be part of the community of wine and food lovers at The Wine & Food Foundation! Get more information about upcoming events, wine education classes, and membership options here.

View Details

Mentioned in this Episode

Connect with the Podcast:

Facebook: @texaswinepod

Instagram: @texaswinepod

Email: texaswinepod@gmail.com

Visit www.thisistexaswine.com

Help the Show:

Subscribe to the newsletter.

Donate virtual Texas wine or join the podcast membership at the Gold Medal, Silver Medal, or Bronze Medal Level!

Leave a review on Spotify or Apple Podcasts!

Texas Wine News

  1. Come Over October
  2. Come On Over Y’all
  3. Texas Wine featured on CBS Saturday Morning Segment
  4. Courtney Bonds for Texas Monthly: Meet Muenster, the Fredericksburg of North Texas
  5. Amy Beth Wright for Wine Enthusiast: Dark, Hardy and Mysterious, the Lenoir Grape Has a Disease-Resistant Superpower
  6. Adam Russell for Agrilife Today: Texas wine grape growers see uptick in Pierce’s disease
  7. McPherson Cellars producing private label wines for United Supermarkets - LINK
  8. Brookshire Brothers grocery chain considering a Texas producer for a private label wine available only at Brookshire - LINK
  9. Texas Wine Growers tasting event on October 6 in Marble Falls - LINK Advocate members use code in your email for a discounted rate.
  10. Texas Hill Country Wineries roadshow on October 24 in San Antonio and Passport during October- LINK
  11. Texas Wine Jam Nov 7–10 -LINK
  12. Specialist of Texas Wine certification with Denise Clarke - LINK

Interview with Dr Colleen Myles of Texas State University

About Colleen - LINK
Fermented Landscapes Book

Decanter article on sustainability in wine - LINK

Gold Star

Kelsey Kramer named Future 40 by Wine Enthusiast

Special Thanks

Need lodging in Fredericksburg? Check out Cork + Cactus!

Find Cork + Cactus and many more great rentals at Heavenly Hosts.com!

Thanks to Texas Wine Lover for promotional help! For the latest information on Texas wineries and vineyards, visit Texas Wine Lover. Don’t forget to download the Texas Wine Lover app too!

Wine & Food Foundation

I’m so happy to be part of the community of wine and food lovers at The Wine & Food Foundation! Get more information about upcoming events, wine education classes, and membership options here.

View Details

Mentioned in this Episode

Connect with the Podcast:

Facebook: @texaswinepod

Instagram: @texaswinepod

Email: texaswinepod@gmail.com

Visit www.thisistexaswine.com

Help the Show:

Subscribe to the newsletter.

Donate virtual Texas wine or join the podcast membership at the Gold Medal, Silver Medal, or Bronze Medal Level!

Leave a review on Spotify or Apple Podcasts!

Texas Wine News

  1. available grapes - Texas Hill Country Wineries list
  2. available grapes - TWGGA list
  3. W. Blake Gray proposes $25 Wine Day
  4. Come Over October
  5. Open Local Wine Day is November 9
  6. Matthew Kaner for Men’s Health: Get Ready to Celebrate the Harvest Under the Moonlight in Texas Wine Country
  7. LM Archer for The Drinks Business: Can you make sparkling wine in Texas?
  8. Historic Designation for Sagmor Vineyard
  9. Narrative for Sagmor Vineyard’s application

Interview with Rebecca Conley of J.W. Hardin Wine Co

Find J.W. Hardin Wine Co HERE

Gold Star

Wine Dinner Series at Dai Due. Happy 10th anniversary, y’all!

Special Thanks

Need lodging in Fredericksburg? Check out Cork + Cactus!

Find Cork + Cactus and many more great rentals at Heavenly Hosts.com!

Thanks to Texas Wine Lover for promotional help! For the latest information on Texas wineries and vineyards, visit Texas Wine Lover. Don’t forget to download the Texas Wine Lover app too!

Wine & Food Foundation

I’m so happy to be part of the community of wine and food lovers at The Wine & Food Foundation! Get more information about upcoming events, wine education classes, and membership options here.

View Details

Mentioned in this Episode

Connect with the Podcast:

Facebook: @texaswinepod

Instagram: @texaswinepod

Email: texaswinepod@gmail.com

Visit www.thisistexaswine.com

Help the Show:

Subscribe to the newsletter.

Donate virtual Texas wine or join the podcast membership at the Gold Medal, Silver Medal, or Bronze Medal Level!

Leave a review on Spotify or Apple Podcasts!

Texas Wine News

  1. Fort Worth Stock Show & Rodeo’s Inaugural Vine 2 Wine International Wine Competition
  2. PREVIEW WEEK starts July 22! - Fredericksburg Food and Wine Festival

Interview with Landon Miller of Signor Vineyards

Find Signor Vineyards HERE
Find @LandonLloydMiller music on Instagram HERE

Gold Star
Eaker BBQ in Fredericksburg for putting Texas wine on the menu!

Special Thanks

Need lodging in Fredericksburg? Check out Cork + Cactus!

Find Cork + Cactus and many more great rentals at Heavenly Hosts.com!

Thanks to Texas Wine Lover for promotional help! For the latest information on Texas wineries and vineyards, visit Texas Wine Lover. Don’t forget to download the Texas Wine Lover app too!

Wine & Food Foundation

I’m so happy to be part of the community of wine and food lovers at The Wine & Food Foundation! Get more information about upcoming events, wine education classes, and membership options here.

View Details

Mentioned in this Episode

Advertisers for this episode

Bending Branch Winery

Connect with the Podcast:

Facebook: @texaswinepod

Instagram: @texaswinepod

Email: texaswinepod@gmail.com

Visit www.thisistexaswine.com

Help the Show:

Subscribe to the newsletter.

Donate virtual Texas wine or join the podcast membership at the Gold Medal, Silver Medal, or Bronze Medal Level!

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Texas Wine News

  1. TAMU’s Michael Cook Awarded Presidents’ Award for Scholarship in Viticulture by the American Society for Enology and Viticulture
  2. New Wine Bar in Mansfield (North Texas) - Old Vine Texas
  3. Edge of the Lake featured on CBS News in DFW LINK
  4. Contact for North Texas winery trip from Fredericksburg: donnarene (at) tellyourstory.wine
  5. Decanter World Wine Awards Texas Results
  6. Lone Star International Wine Competition Texas Results
  7. Finger Lakes International Wine Competition Texas Results
  8. Grapefest 2024 - September 12–15 in Grapevine
  9. Halter Ranch Press Release
  10. USDA Brochure on Labeling Organic Wine
  11. CCOF Handout on Organic Wine Labeling

Interview with Henry Crowson of Crowson Wines

Follow Crowson Wines HERE

or @crowsonwines on IG

and @picnicdmarket on IG too!

Gold Star

George Straight in general. Specifically, having Texas wine in his dressing room for the record-setting show in College Station.

Special Thanks

Need lodging in Fredericksburg? Check out Cork + Cactus!

Find Cork + Cactus and many more great rentals at Heavenly Hosts.com!

Thanks to Texas Wine Lover for promotional help! For the latest information on Texas wineries and vineyards, visit Texas Wine Lover. Don’t forget to download the Texas Wine Lover app too!

Wine & Food Foundation

I’m so happy to be part of the community of wine and food lovers at The Wine & Food Foundation! Get more information about upcoming events, wine education classes, and membership options here.

View Details

Mentioned in this Episode

Advertisers for this episode

Bending Branch Winery

Connect with the Podcast:

Facebook: @texaswinepod

Instagram: @texaswinepod

Email: texaswinepod@gmail.com

Visit www.thisistexaswine.com

Help the Show:

Subscribe to the newsletter.

Donate virtual Texas wine or join the podcast membership at the Gold Medal, Silver Medal, or Bronze Medal Level!

Leave a review on Spotify or Apple Podcasts!

Texas Wine News

  1. William Chris Wine Company to Donate Portion of Sales to Feeding Texas
  2. Introducing Signor - Far West - VIDEO
  3. Dr. Russ Kane’s Specialist of Texas Wine Course LIVE in Comfort - LINK
  4. Grafted: Uniting Women in Texas Wine

Interview with Jeremy Wilson, Brand Ambassador and Sommelier at Adega Vinho Winery

Follow Jeremy on IG at @jeremy\_wilson13 and see him at Adega Vinho Winery. Taste his Rock Flower Creations there too!

Mentioned in the interview:

Vinovium’s Rose Revelry event - LINK

Gold Star

Pedernales Cellars’ sponsorship of the Hill Country Film Festival

Demerit

Still those wineries that don’t serve Texas wines! Don’t forget to #AskForTexasWines yall!

Special Thanks

Need lodging in Fredericksburg? Check out Cork + Cactus!

Find Cork + Cactus and many more great rentals at Heavenly Hosts.com!

Thanks to Texas Wine Lover for promotional help! For the latest information on Texas wineries and vineyards, visit Texas Wine Lover. Don’t forget to download the Texas Wine Lover app too!

Wine & Food Foundation

I’m so happy to be part of the community of wine and food lovers at The Wine & Food Foundation! Get more information about upcoming events, wine education classes, and membership options here.

View Details

Mentioned in this Episode

Advertisers for this episode

Texas Wine Analytics

Bending Branch Winery

Connect with the Podcast:

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Instagram: @texaswinepod

Email: texaswinepod@gmail.com

Visit www.thisistexaswine.com

Help the Show:

Subscribe to the newsletter.

Donate virtual Texas wine or join the podcast membership at the Gold Medal, Silver Medal, or Bronze Medal Level!

Leave a review on Spotify or Apple Podcasts!

Texas Wine News

  1. 3 Cheers for the 10th anniversary of Texas Fine Wine
  2. Chris Brundrett is an EY Entrepreneur of the Year Gulf South Award Finalist LINK
  3. Nadia Chaudhury for Eater Austin: “Where to Eat and Drink in Driftwood, Texas”
  4. Fredericksburg Food and Wine Festival Announced LINK

Interview with Kelsey Kramer of the Hill Country Wine Academy

Hill Country Wine Academy

Grafted: Uniting Women in Texas Wine

Gold Star

Vintage Bookstore and Wine Bar

Demerit

none

Special Thanks

Need lodging in Fredericksburg? Check out Cork + Cactus!

Find Cork + Cactus and many more great rentals at Heavenly Hosts.com!

Thanks to Texas Wine Lover for promotional help! For the latest information on Texas wineries and vineyards, visit Texas Wine Lover. Don’t forget to download the Texas Wine Lover app too!

Wine & Food Foundation

I’m so happy to be part of the community of wine and food lovers at The Wine & Food Foundation! Get more information about upcoming events, wine education classes, and membership options here.

View Details

Mentioned in this Episode

Advertisers for this episode

Texas Wine Analytics

Bending Branch Winery

Connect with the Podcast:

Facebook: @texaswinepod

Instagram: @texaswinepod

Email: texaswinepod@gmail.com

Visit www.thisistexaswine.com

Help the Show:

Subscribe to the newsletter.

Donate virtual Texas wine or join the podcast membership at the Gold Medal, Silver Medal, or Bronze Medal Level!

Leave a review on Spotify or Apple Podcasts!

Texas Wine News

  1. Cathy Huyge for Forbes.com “Texas Wines: On Purpose”
  2. New Courses Announced at Hill Country Wine Academy LINK
  3. May 20–21 Sage’s Vintage Symposium Tickets

Interview with Jen Syma and Nichole Bendele #AskForTexasWines

Follow the initiative on Instagram at @askfortexaswines or email organizers at askfortexaswines@gmail.com

Find Texas Wine Lover’s restaurant cards HERE

Gold Star

Chris Brundrett named one of E&Y’s Regional Entrepreneur of the Year

Demerit

none

Special Thanks

Need lodging in Fredericksburg? Check out Cork + Cactus!

Find Cork + Cactus and many more great rentals at Heavenly Hosts.com!

Thanks to Texas Wine Lover for promotional help! For the latest information on Texas wineries and vineyards, visit Texas Wine Lover. Don’t forget to download the Texas Wine Lover app too!

Wine & Food Foundation

I’m so happy to be part of the community of wine and food lovers at The Wine & Food Foundation! Get more information about upcoming events, wine education classes, and membership options here.

View Details

Mentioned in this Episode

Advertisers for this episode:

Texas Wine Analytics

Bending Branch Winery

Connect with the Podcast:

Facebook: @texaswinepod

Instagram: @texaswinepod

Email: texaswinepod@gmail.com

Visit www.thisistexaswine.com

Help the Show:

Subscribe to the newsletter.

Donate virtual Texas wine!

Leave a review on Spotify or Apple Podcasts!

Texas Wine News

  1. Ron Yates Planning Expansion LINK
  2. Halter Ranch Opens Fredericksburg Tasting Room LINK
  3. Emily Capiello for Men’s Health: These Women Are Bringing Texas Wine To The Forefront
  4. Psychiatric Times: A Winery Addresses Mental Health
  5. Bending Branch Derby Extraganza: LINK
  6. Toast of Texas by Wine & Food Foundation: Use Code texaswinepod for $20 off TICKETS
  7. May 4 Texas Wine Auction Tickets
  8. May 20–21 Sage’s Vintage Symposium Tickets

Interview with Mike Batek of Hye Meadow Winery and Vineyard

Hye Meadow Winery

Gold Star

none

Demerit

none

Special Thanks

Need lodging in Fredericksburg? Check out Cork + Cactus!

Find Cork + Cactus and many more great rentals at Heavenly Hosts.com!

Thanks to Texas Wine Lover for promotional help! For the latest information on Texas wineries and vineyards, visit Texas Wine Lover. Don’t forget to download the Texas Wine Lover app too!

Wine & Food Foundation

I’m so happy to be part of the community of wine and food lovers at The Wine & Food Foundation! Get more information about upcoming events, wine education classes, and membership options here.

View Details

Mentioned in this Episode

Connect with the Podcast:

Facebook: @texaswinepod

Instagram: @texaswinepod

Email: texaswinepod@gmail.com

Visit www.thisistexaswine.com

Help the Show:

Subscribe to the newsletter.

Donate virtual Texas wine!

Leave a review on Spotify or Apple Podcasts!

Looking for a custom crush partner? Bending Branch Winery offers full spectrum bin-to-bottle services, with access to many grape varieties, including those that are certified organic. The experienced winemaking team specializes in traditional and innovative winemaking techniques. Join Bending Branch and its clients in producing highly awarded wines.

Texas Wine News

  1. Texas Wine Lover: Texas Wineries Where You Can Watch the Total Solar Eclipse
  2. Southern Living: 7 Reasons Why You Should Plan A Trip To Texas This Year
  3. Wine America: The Magic of Wine
  4. Adam Lee for NorthBay Biz: Sharing the Dream…
  5. Robert Joseph for Meininger’s International: Why Wine Needs More Seducers and Fewer Educators
  6. Follow Marie Cheslik of Slik Wines: @slikwines on Instagram for more discussion about wine marketing to Gen Z, content creation, and more
  7. April 26 Newsom Grape Day: LINK
  8. May 4 Bending Branch Derby Extraganza: LINK
  9. April 20 Rootstock WineFest 2024: Sparkling Wine! Use Code shelly for 10% off TICKETS
  10. May 5 Toast of Texas by Wine & Food Foundation: Use Code texaswinepod for $20 off TICKETS
  11. May 4 Texas Wine Auction Tickets
  12. May 20–21 Sage’s Vintage Symposium Tickets
  13. May 11 Texas Wine Market at Bluebonnet Tasting Room in Tomball LINK

Interview with Tim Drake of Michael Ros Winery

Michael Ros Winery

BioFiltro: worm powered wastewater solutions
Texas Wine Lover article on Michael Ros Winery: LINK

Gold Star

Paul Bonarrigo Quote in Local Profile website

“Way back in the 1980s, when you made a presentation, you needed a flak jacket,” “The good news is that people who thought Texas wine was horrible back in the ’80s, they’re dead. When you talk to a newly minted A&M graduate, they will say their favorite [wines] are Texas wines.”

Demerit

Bob FM radio station ad :-(

Special Thanks

Need lodging in Fredericksburg? Check out Cork + Cactus!

Find Cork + Cactus and many more great rentals at Heavenly Hosts.com!

Thanks to Texas Wine Lover for promotional help! For the latest information on Texas wineries and vineyards, visit Texas Wine Lover. Don’t forget to download the Texas Wine Lover app too!

Wine & Food Foundation

I’m so happy to be part of the community of wine and food lovers at The Wine & Food Foundation! Get more information about upcoming events, wine education classes, and membership options here.

View Details

Mentioned in this Episode

Connect with the Podcast:

Facebook: @texaswinepod

Instagram: @texaswinepod

Email: texaswinepod@gmail.com

Visit www.thisistexaswine.com

Help the Show:

Subscribe to the newsletter.

Donate virtual Texas wine!

Leave a review on Spotify or Apple Podcasts!

Texas Wine News

  1. Amy Beth Wright for Wine Enthusiast: The Best Wineries (and More) to Visit in Texas Right Now
  2. Ari Bendersky: The Case to Drink More American Wine in response to Patrick Cappiello’s viral reel from Feb 25 on @patrickwine on Instagram
  3. Rootstock WineFest 2024: Sparkling Wine! Use Code shelly for 10% off TICKETS
  4. Toast of Texas by Wine & Food Foundation: Use Code texaswinepod for $20 off TICKETS
  5. TEXSOM Results for Texas Wineries LINK
  6. May 4 Texas Wine Auction Tickets
  7. May 20–21 Sage’s Vintage Symposium Tickets

Interview with Bret Perrenoud of Airis ’Ele Vineyards

Airis ’Ele Vineyards

Gold Star

Segovia Wine Bar (Waco) Texas vs. Spain Tasting TICKETS

Alycia + Alta Marfa Sip List LINK

Farmhouse Vineyards Playlists LINK

Demerit

Austin Rodeo has no Texas wine. :-(

Halter Ranch signage along 290. :-(

Special Thanks

Need lodging in Fredericksburg? Check out Cork + Cactus!

Find Cork + Cactus and many more great rentals at Heavenly Hosts.com!

Thanks to Texas Wine Lover for promotional help! For the latest information on Texas wineries and vineyards, visit Texas Wine Lover. Don’t forget to download the Texas Wine Lover app too!

Wine & Food Foundation

I’m so happy to be part of the community of wine and food lovers at The Wine & Food Foundation! Get more information about upcoming events, wine education classes, and membership options here.

View Details

Mentioned in this Episode

Connect with the Podcast:

Facebook: @texaswinepod

Instagram: @texaswinepod

Email: texaswinepod@gmail.com

Visit www.thisistexaswine.com

Help the Show:

Subscribe to the newsletter.

Donate virtual Texas wine!

Leave a review on Spotify or Apple Podcasts!

Texas Wine News

  1. Changes Coming at Vinovium
  2. Paul Caputo for Forbes “Vermetino is a fresh white wine for a hotter world”
  3. OIV + TDA Conference on Pierce’s Disease
  4. Become an advocate member of Texas Wine Growers HERE
  5. March 8 International Women’s Day Event at Wine For the People: TICKETS

UPCOMING / ONGOING:

  1. May 4 Texas Wine Auction Tickets

  2. May 5 Wine & Food Foundation’s Toast of Texas Event Tickets

  3. May 20–21 Sage’s Vintage Symposium Tickets

Interview with Katy Jane Seaton of Farmhouse Vineyards

Farmhouse Vineyards

Gold Star

Award Winners from 2024 TWGGA Conference

TV Munson Award (grape growing): Alphonse and Martha Dotson

Louis F Qualia Award (pioneering spirit): Michael McClendon

John E Crosby Award (lifetime achievement): Susan Auler and the late Ed Auler

Bunny Becker Women in Wine Award: Roxanne Meyers

Demerit

None.

Special Thanks

Need lodging in Fredericksburg? Check out Cork + Cactus!

Find Cork + Cactus and many more great rentals at Heavenly Hosts.com!

Thanks to Texas Wine Lover for promotional help! For the latest information on Texas wineries and vineyards, visit Texas Wine Lover. Don’t forget to download the Texas Wine Lover app too!

Wine & Food Foundation

I’m so happy to be part of the community of wine and food lovers at The Wine & Food Foundation! Get more information about upcoming events, wine education classes, and membership options here.

View Details

Mentioned in this Episode

Connect with the Podcast:

Facebook: @texaswinepod

Instagram: @texaswinepod

Email: texaswinepod@gmail.com

Visit www.thisistexaswine.com

Help the Show:

Subscribe to the newsletter.

Donate virtual Texas wine!

Leave a review on Spotify or Apple Podcasts!

Texas Wine News

  1. Landon Winery Plans Denison Expansion
  2. “Kerrville Hills Winery Opens Tasting House at Schreiner University”
  3. Bingham Family Winery Opens Roanoake Tasting Room
  4. US Court Bans Dicamba Weed Killers
  5. Amy Beth Wright for Garden & Gun Magazine: “An Insider’s Guide to Mason, Texas, the Hill Country’s Best-Kept Secret”
  6. Hill Country Wine Academy: Spring Courses
  7. Texas Wine School with Dr. Russ Kane: Spring Course
  8. Arch Ray Resort in Fredericksburg LINK
  9. Texas Wine Auction Tickets
  10. Wine & Food Foundation’s Toast of Texas Event Tickets

Interview with Mike and Kristen Nelson of Ab Astris

Ab Astris

Texas Wine Growers

Gold Star

Award Winners from Texas Hill Country Wine Symposium

Read more HERE

Demerit

None.

Special Thanks

Need lodging in Fredericksburg? Check out Cork + Cactus!

Find Cork + Cactus and many more great rentals at Heavenly Hosts.com!

Thanks to Texas Wine Lover for promotional help! For the latest information on Texas wineries and vineyards, visit Texas Wine Lover. Don’t forget to download the Texas Wine Lover app too!

Wine & Food Foundation

I’m so happy to be part of the community of wine and food lovers at The Wine & Food Foundation! Get more information about upcoming events, wine education classes, and membership options here.

View Details

Mentioned in this Episode

Connect with the Podcast:

Facebook: @texaswinepod

Instagram: @texaswinepod

Email: texaswinepod@gmail.com

Visit www.thisistexaswine.com

Help the Show:

Subscribe to the newsletter.

Donate virtual Texas wine!

Leave a review on Spotify or Apple Podcasts!

Texas Wine News

  1. San Francisco Chronicle Wine Competition Results
    1. Texas results on www.txwinelover.com
    2. Full results
  2. Amy Beth Wright for Wine Enthusiast: “Pierce’s Disease Devastates Vines. Are These New Hybrids the Answer?”
  3. Sara Ventiera for Wine Enthusiast: “This Remote Arts Mecca Near Marfa Is Texas’s Latest Wine Destination”
  4. Texas A&M AgriLife: “Wine Trends to Watch in 2024”
  5. Pamela Vachon for Wine Enthusiast: “7 up and coming wine regions that should be on your radar”
  6. CNN Travel: “Best Destinations to Visit in 2024”
  7. Blake Eddie Scholarship Wine by Bingham Family Vineyards
  8. Enter your wines for the 2024 TEXSOM Awards! LINK

Interview with Fritz Westover

Westover Vineyard Advising

Virtual Vineyard Academy

Vineyard Underground Podcast

Gold Star

25th anniversary of the Texas Hill Country Wineries!

Read more HERE

Unfortunate press about Texas winery

Dallas Observer: Barons Creek Tasting Room Is Now Open in Bishop Arts. But What Is It?

Special Thanks

Need lodging in Fredericksburg? Check out Cork + Cactus!

Find Cork + Cactus and many more great rentals at Heavenly Hosts.com!

Thanks to Texas Wine Lover for promotional help! For the latest information on Texas wineries and vineyards, visit Texas Wine Lover. Don’t forget to download the Texas Wine Lover app too!

Wine & Food Foundation

I’m so happy to be part of the community of wine and food lovers at The Wine & Food Foundation! Get more information about upcoming events, wine education classes, and membership options here.

View Details

Mentioned in this Episode

Connect with the Podcast:

Facebook: @texaswinepod

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Visit www.thisistexaswine.com

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Top Texas Wine Stories of the Year

  1. Big-time Texas wine press from top local, state, and national wine writers.
  2. Hickory Sands AVA perfected by the TTB. (Llano Uplift AVA was perfected in 2022).
  3. Many Texas wines did very well in competitions, and white wines fared especially well. William Chris Vineyards was named one of the Top 100 Vineyards and Wineries.
  4. Harvest yields were huge.
  5. It was a great year for Texas wine festivals and events.
  6. The Texas Wine Lover app debuted.
  7. Lots of education was delivered through seminars and symposiums. More Texans than ever (or so it seemed) decided to become Specialists of Texas Wine (levels 1 and 2), Texas Wine Ambassador Certification, and WSET courses. Bravo!
  8. Plenty of winemakers were on the move.
  9. Winery tasting rooms opened, and some closed. Others moved locations.
  10. The State Fair of Texas changed direction in the wine garden, and Texas wine only represents 13% of the formerly 100% Texas wine list.

Many thanks to Daniel Kelada at Vinovium for co-hosting this episode!

Vinovium

Announcing the Texas Wine Pod Awards 2023!

Retail Space of the Year: H-E-B Tomball

Marketing Campaign of the Year: Pedernales Cellars for Seriously. Texas Wine.

Best Social Media Post: North Texas Wine Country

Edu-tainment Award: Texas Wine Club

Social Media Consistency Award (tie): Reddy Vineyards and Duchman Family Winery

Brand with Heart Award: Farmhouse Vineyards

Keeping It Real Award: Alta Marfa Winery

Winery Dog of the Year: Whiskey at Vinovium

LIFETIME ACHIEVEMENT for Best Restaurant Wine List: Cabernet Grill

Special Thanks

Thanks to Texas Wine Lover for promotional help! For the latest information on Texas wineries and vineyards, visit Texas Wine Lover. Don’t forget to download the Texas Wine Lover app too!

Wine & Food Foundation

I’m so happy to be part of the community of wine and food lovers at The Wine & Food Foundation! Get more information about upcoming events, wine education classes, and membership options here.

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View Details

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Facebook: @texaswinepod

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Texas Wine In the News

  1. Results from Houston’s Rodeo Uncorked! Wine Competition from Texas Wine Lover and Rodeo Uncorked!
  2. W Blake Gray in Wine Searcher: Texas: No Country for Bad Wine
  3. Brittney Anas in Men’s Journal: These Thanksgiving Wines Deserve a Spot on the Table
  4. Kathy Blackwell in Texas Monthly: The Top 25 Texas Gifts of 2023
  5. Broke Lewis in Texas Monthly: Black Winery Owners in Texas Hope to Leave a Legacy for Future Generations
  6. Lana Bortolot in Forbes: A Mixed Case for Thanksgiving
  7. Katie Bell in Forbes: The Best American Sparkling Wines
  8. Come to France with me in 2024! Read all about it here

Interview with AGrayson Davies of Arche’ Winery & Vineyard in St. Jo, Texas

Arche’ Wines

North Texas Wine Country

Gold Stars

Texas Department of Agriculture’s Texas Wine Advisory Committee

Jerry Eisterhold and TerraVox Winery

Alex Mayyasi for Smithsonian Magazine: The Man Who’s Saving America’s Forgotten Grapes

Demerit

none this time

Special Thanks

Thanks to Texas Wine Lover for promotional help! For the latest information on Texas wineries and vineyards, visit Texas Wine Lover. Don’t forget to download the Texas Wine Lover app too!

Wine & Food Foundation

I’m so happy to be part of the community of wine and food lovers at The Wine & Food Foundation! Get more information about upcoming events, wine education classes, and membership options here.

Need lodging in Fredericksburg? Check out Cork + Cactus!

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View Details

Mentioned in this Episode

Connect with the Podcast:

Facebook: @texaswinepod

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Email: texaswinepod@gmail.com

Visit www.thisistexaswine.com

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Texas Wine In the News

  1. Forbes: 20 of the coolest and most delicious wines for your Thanksgiving table
  2. Kathleen Wilcox: The Best (Unexpected) Wines to Pair with Thanksgiving Dinner
  3. MySA: 10 best gifts for Texans
  4. Farmhouse Vineyards: Eclipse Opportunity
  5. Come to France with me in 2024! Read all about it here

Interview with Amit Dhingra PhD

Texas A&M University Department of Horticultural Sciences

International Organisation of Vine and Wine

Gold Stars

none this time

Demerit

none this time

Special Thanks

Thanks to Texas Wine Lover for promotional help! For the latest information on Texas wineries and vineyards, visit Texas Wine Lover. Don’t forget to download the Texas Wine Lover app too!

Wine & Food Foundation

I’m so happy to be part of the community of wine and food lovers at The Wine & Food Foundation! Get more information about upcoming events, wine education classes, and membership options here.

Need lodging in Fredericksburg? Check out Cork + Cactus!
Find Cork + Cactus and many more great rentals at Heavenly Hosts.com!

View Details

Mentioned in this Episode

Connect with the Podcast:

Facebook: @texaswinepod

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Email: texaswinepod@gmail.com

Visit www.thisistexaswine.com

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Texas Wine In the News

  1. Dave McIntyre for The Washington Post: With hard work and luck, Texas Hill Country emerges as a wine region.
  2. TWGGA’s Lone Star International Wine Competition RESULTS
  3. New William Chris Wine Co Wanderer Series IV benefits Southern Smoke Foundation
  4. FlavoryTX Holiday Prelude Tickets and Information
  5. Texas Wine Jam Tickets and Information
  6. Texas Hill Country Wineries Fort Worth Road Show Tickets and Information
  7. Come to France with me in 2024! Read all about it here

Interview with Kim McPherson of McPherson Cellars

Kim's podcast with Doug Shafer: LINK

Gold Stars

Three Cheers for Elizabeth Rodriguez who is leaving Cabernet Grill after 18 years!

Listen to Rose Thomas Banister’s great podcast Modo di Bere. It’s all about local drinks and sayings. And don’t miss her recent episode featuring me talking about Texas Wine! LINK

Demerit

Houston Rockets partner with Sonoma County Winegrowers to feature Sonoma County wines at games and other events. Will any Texas wines be offered?

Special Thanks

Thanks to Texas Wine Lover for promotional help! For the latest information on Texas wineries and vineyards, visit Texas Wine Lover. Don’t forget to download the Texas Wine Lover app too!

Wine & Food Foundation

I’m so happy to be part of the community of wine and food lovers at The Wine & Food Foundation! Get more information about upcoming events, wine education classes, and membership options here.

Need lodging in Fredericksburg? Check out my home Cork + Cactus!

Find Cork + Cactus and many more great rentals at Heavenly Hosts.com!

View Details

Mentioned in this Episode

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Texas Wine In the News

  1. Amy Beth Wright for Wine Enthusiast: As Texas Wine Gathers Strength, 6 AVAs Are on the Horizon
  2. San Antonio Stock Show & Rodeo Champion Wine Dinner
  3. San Antonio Stock Show & Rodeo Wine Competition Results
  4. Beverage Dynamics: Wine Panel Reviews American Wine
  5. Travel & Leisure: This Texas Hill Country Town Is Home to Natural Swimming Holes, Wineries, and 50 Giant Cowboy Boots
  6. Texas Hill Country Wineries Fort Worth Road Show
  7. Silicon Valley Bank’s Annual State of the Wine Industry SURVEY
  8. Come to France with me in 2024! Read all about it here

Interview with Clay Roup of Texas Wine Club

Texas Wine Club Wine Experiences and Tasting Room

Dr. Russ Kane, instructor for the Specialist of Texas Wine Certification offered by Texas Wine School BLOG

Georgian wine documentary “Our Blood is Wine”

Gold Stars

Podcast: Meet Me at the Wagon by Perini Ranch Steakhouse and Texas Monthly Podcast Studio

Demerit

Special Thanks

Thanks to Texas Wine Lover for promotional help! For the latest information on Texas wineries and vineyards, visit Texas Wine Lover. Don’t forget to download the Texas Wine Lover app too!

Wine & Food Foundation

I’m so happy to be part of the community of wine and food lovers at The Wine & Food Foundation! Get more information about upcoming events, wine education classes, and membership options here.

Need lodging in Fredericksburg? Check out my home Cork + Cactus!

Find Cork + Cactus and many more great rentals at Heavenly Hosts.com!

None

View Details

Mentioned in this Episode

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Facebook: @texaswinepod

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Email: texaswinepod@gmail.com

Visit www.thisistexaswine.com

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Texas Wine In the News

  1. My State Fair of Texas article detailing a HUGE DEMERIT
  2. Register now for The Texas Wine School’s Advanced Texas Wine Specialist Course
  3. LINK to join Rhone Rangers
  4. The Local Palate: What the Wine Pros are Drinking This Fall
  5. Lana Bortolot for Forbes: Roses that Power Into Fall
  6. North Texas Wine Country Fall Passport Event
  7. Texas Hill Country Wineries Fall Passport Event
  8. Come to France with me in 2024! Read all about it here

Interview with Paul and Merrill Bonarrigo, co-founders of Messina Hof Winery

Buy their memoir!

Video of Paul’s chat with Ron Perry, formerly of Texas A&M

Gold Stars

Texas Hill Country Wineries Winemaker Dinners

Buy tickets for the December 3 dinner at Hill & Vine HERE COMING SOON

Demerit

Special Thanks

Thanks to Texas Wine Lover for promotional help! For the latest information on Texas wineries and vineyards, visit Texas Wine Lover. Don’t forget to download the Texas Wine Lover app too!

Wine & Food Foundation

I’m so happy to be part of the community of wine and food lovers at The Wine & Food Foundation! Get more information about upcoming events, wine education classes, and membership options here.

Need lodging in Fredericksburg? Check out my home Cork + Cactus!

Find Cork + Cactus and many more great rentals at Heavenly Hosts.com!

View Details

Mentioned in this Episode

Connect with the Podcast:

Facebook: @texaswinepod

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Email: texaswinepod@gmail.com

Visit www.thisistexaswine.com

Help the Show:

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Donate virtual Texas wine!

Leave a review on Spotify or Apple Podcasts!

Texas Wine In the News

Texas Monthly’s Vintner’s Cup Winners:

-Bolen Vineyards 2022 Marsanne

-English Newsom 2021 Dry Riesling

-Invention Vineyards 2022 Vintage Riesling

-William Chris 2022 Chenin Blanc, Dell Valley

-Agusta Vin’s 2022 Reserve Montepulciano

-Becker Vineyards 2019 Barbera, Tallent Vineyard

-CL Butaud 2021 Grenache, Farmhouse Vineyards

-Chateau Wright 2020 Malbec “Point of Rocks”

-McPherson Cellars 2021 Counoise

-Messina Hof 2019 Paulo Sagrantino

-Pedernales Cellars 2020 Texas High Plains Grenache

-Skies Over Texas 2021 Mourvedre

Honorable Mentions:

Christoval Winery 2019 Cabernet Sauvignon

Invention Vineyards 2021 Left Bank Bordeaux

Llano Estacado 2021 Artist Blend

Wedding Oak Winery 2020 Cabernet Sauvignon

Fly Gap Winery 2021 Tempranillo

Grape Creek Vineyards 2019 The Individualist

Bending Branch 2019 Tannat

Duchman Family Winery 2019 Montepulciano

Valley Mills Vineyards 2021 Grenache

Ab Astris 2019 Zinfandel

Pebble Rock 2020 Tempranillo

Portree Cellars 2021 Aglianico

Ron Yates 2019 Friesen

Bell Springs Winery 2020 Tempranillo

Lost Draw Cellars 2020 GSM

Sandstone Cellars 2019 XX111

Lewis Wines 2021 Chenin Blanc

Lost Draw Cellars 2022 Picpoul Blanc

GrapeFest People’s Choice Awards: Congrats to Messina Hof, Bull Lion Ranch, Silver Dollar Winery, Kiepersol, and Juniper Cove Winery for winning top honors.

Baron’s Creek Opening in Dallas’ Bishop Arts District. Read about it HERE

Pontotoc Vineyards to open Picnic Table in Hye

North Texas Wine Country Fall Passport Event

Texas Hill Country Wineries Fall Passport Event

Come to France with me in 2024! Read all about it here

Interview with Jackie Mancuso of Atlas Vineyard Management

Atlas Vineyard Management

Gold Stars

Demerit

Special Thanks

Thanks to Texas Wine Lover for promotional help! For the latest information on Texas wineries and vineyards, visit Texas Wine Lover. Don’t forget to download the Texas Wine Lover app too!

Wine & Food Foundation

I’m so happy to be part of the community of wine and food lovers at The Wine & Food Foundation! Get more information about upcoming events, wine education classes, and membership options here.

Need lodging in Fredericksburg? Check out my home Cork + Cactus!

Find Cork + Cactus and many more great rentals at Heavenly Hosts.com!

View Details

Mentioned in this Episode

Connect with the Podcast:

Facebook: @texaswinepod

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Email: texaswinepod@gmail.com

Visit www.thisistexaswine.com

Help the Show:

Subscribe to the newsletter.

Donate virtual Texas wine!

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Texas Wine In the News

  1. Signor Winemaker Eric Weisinger in Oregon Wine Press: “From the Valley to the Hills: Experienced Oregon winemaker also finds success in Texas”
  2. Good Morning America: Franklin Vines / Shankleville, Texas
  3. Cannabis vs. Wine in High Times: Texas Cannabis Companies’ Economic Impact Predicted To Surpass Wine
  4. Cross Timbers Wine Trail’s Radio Ads for Texas Wine and Texas Agriculture
  5. North Texas Wine Country Fall Passport Event
  6. Texas Hill Country Wineries Fall Passport Event
  7. Haak Winery / KHOU 11 News
  8. Come to France with me in 2024! Read all about it here

Interview with Cheramie and Todd Aho of Cheramie Wine

Cheramie Wine

Operation Enduring Support

Some of Cheramie's favorite Instagram "follows":

@africanamericanvintners

@bodkinwines

@urbangrape

@uncorkedandcultured

@JuliaConey

@blackwineprofessionals

@liftcollectiveorg

Gold Stars

Patient Grape Growers and Winemakers!

Demerit

ChatGPT’s Texas wine knowledge!

Special Thanks

Thanks to Texas Wine Lover for promotional help! For the latest information on Texas wineries and vineyards, visit Texas Wine Lover. Don’t forget to download the Texas Wine Lover app too!

Wine & Food Foundation

I’m so happy to be part of the community of wine and food lovers at The Wine & Food Foundation! Get more information about upcoming events, wine education classes, and membership options here.

Need lodging in Fredericksburg? Check out my home Cork + Cactus!

Find Cork + Cactus and many more great rentals at Heavenly Hosts.com!

View Details

Mentioned in this Episode

Connect with the Podcast:

Facebook: @texaswinepod

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Email: texaswinepod@gmail.com

Visit www.thisistexaswine.com

Help the Show:

Subscribe to the newsletter.

Donate virtual Texas wine!

Leave a review on Spotify or Apple Podcasts!

Use code THISISTEXASWINE for $100 off the Texas Wine Club at www.txwine.com.

Texas Wine In the News

  1. 2023 Texas Harvest Update
  2. Oregon State University: Managing Grapevines During Heat Spike
  3. Available Texas Fruit Listing
  4. William Chris Vineyards Named Top 100 Vineyards List
  5. Chris Missick Consulting for Bending Branch Winery: Press Release
  6. Join me for a Texas Wine Club Blind Tasting Experience in Dallas! Registration
  7. Lana Bortolot for Forbes: “White Wines Off the Beaten Path”
  8. Lana Bortolot for Forbes: “All American Rosés for the 4th of July”
  9. Lana Bortolot for Forbes: “Summer Wines: The Heat Wave Edition”
  10. Sam Stone for Bon Appetit “Get to Know One of Texas’s Most Beautiful Restaurants”
  11. D Magazine: “True Crime and Wine”
  12. Westcave Cellars & Winery FOR SALE
  13. Pella Legna Winery FOR SALE
  14. Come to France with me in 2024! Read all about it here
  15. Texas Wine Club discount code: use code THISISTEXASWINE to get $100 off your first shipment!

Interview with Amie Nemec

www.txwinelover.com

Gold Stars

Susan Johnson and Chase Jones - Interview

Karen Bonarrigo - Interview

Education

Read about primary, secondary, and tertiary aromas/flavors HERE

Special Thanks

Thanks to Texas Wine Lover for promotional help! For the latest information on Texas wineries and vineyards, visit Texas Wine Lover. Don’t forget to download the Texas Wine Lover app too!

Wine & Food Foundation

I’m so happy to be part of the community of wine and food lovers at The Wine & Food Foundation! Get more information about upcoming events, wine education classes, and membership options here.

Need lodging in Fredericksburg? Check out my home Cork + Cactus!

Find Cork + Cactus and many more great rentals at Heavenly Hosts.com!

View Details

Mentioned in this Episode

Connect with the Podcast:

Facebook: @texaswinepod

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Email: texaswinepod@gmail.com

Visit www.thisistexaswine.com

Help the Show:

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Texas Wine In the News

  1. VinePair: The States With the Most Wineries in 2023
  2. Fritz Westover won the The 2023 ASEV-ES Distinguished Service Award! Press Release
  3. Fritz Westover’s podcast: Vineyard Underground
  4. Tina Danze for the Dallas Morning News: 4 Texas wines, beers and ciders we’re drinking this summer. (possible paywall)
  5. Uplift Vineyard Aglianico wins Silver at Decanter Wine Awards - Press Release
  6. Join me for a Texas Wine Club Blind Tasting Experience in Dallas! Registration
  7. Southern Living: 4 small Texas towns that go big on wine
  8. VinePair includes CL Butaud Ramato in The 15 Best Orange Wines for 2023
  9. Texas Wine Lover Tempranillo Tasting Results
  10. Congrats to Slate Theory and William Chris for inclusion on the Vine Pair list “The 30 Best Rosé Wines of 2023”
  11. Finger Lakes International Wine Competition Results
  12. Texas Wine Club discount code: use code THISISTEXASWINE to get $100 off your first shipment!

Interview with Evan McKibben

Find Evan here:

-Pedernales Cellars

-Broken Grape - Texas Wine and Agricultural Experiences

-Agricultural Experiences at Lost Draw at Johnson City

Special Thanks

Thanks to Texas Wine Lover for promotional help! For the latest information on Texas wineries and vineyards, visit Texas Wine Lover. Don’t forget to download the Texas Wine Lover app too!

Wine & Food Foundation

I’m so happy to be part of the community of wine and food lovers at The Wine & Food Foundation! Get more information about upcoming events, wine education classes, and membership options here.

Need lodging in Fredericksburg? Check out my home Cork + Cactus!

Find Cork + Cactus and many more great rentals at Heavenly Hosts.com!

View Details

Mentioned in this Episode

Connect with the Podcast:

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Texas Wine In the News

  1. VinePair: 10 American Wine Regions That Deserve More Recognition
  2. VinePair: The 30 Best Rosé Wines of 2023
  3. TEXSOM Awards Results
  4. Wine Enthusiast: If You Like Pinot Grigio, Try Picpoul.
  5. Decanter: Picpoul makes a splash in America
  6. Texas Wine Club Wine Experiences in Dallas, Fort Worth, San Antonio and Hye
  7. Teas Wine Club discount code: use code THISISTEXASWINE to get $100 off your first shipment!
  8. Get the scoop on FlavoryTX, an educational non-profit focused on Texas food and beverage.

Interview with Dan and Maura Sharp

Sharp Family Vineyards / The Vineyard at Blue Mountain

Special Thanks

Thanks to Texas Wine Lover for promotional help! For the latest information on Texas wineries and vineyards, visit Texas Wine Lover. Don’t forget to download the Texas Wine Lover app too!

Wine & Food Foundation

I’m so happy to be part of the community of wine and food lovers at The Wine & Food Foundation! Get more information about upcoming events, wine education classes, and membership options here.

Need lodging in Fredericksburg? Check out my home Cork + Cactus!

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View Details

Mentioned in this Episode

Connect with the Podcast:

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Sponsors of this Episode

Sommly.com

Texas Wine In the News

  1. Amy Beth Wright for SevenFifty Daily: Grape Crush Reports Are Essential for U.S. Wine Industry Growth—Here’s Why.
  2. Tribute Wine for the late Dr. Pat Brennan: Purchase on Brennan Vineyards’ website
  3. International Wine Review: CL Butaud Profile and Wine Reviews
  4. Sage’s Symposium in Nacogdoches - May 23
  5. AgriLife’s Central Texas Vines and Wines in Waco at Valley Mills Vineyard - May 23
  6. Comparing Cotton and Wine: Texas Farm Bureau Cotton article and Wine America Economic Study for Wine

Interview with Michael Barton of Hilmy Cellars

Hilmy Cellars

Gold Star

Dr. Russ Kane’s Advanced Specialist of Texas Wine course, fellow classmates, and our fearless instructor.

Demerit
Popular podcast publishes episode featuring great pairings with Mexican and Tex-Mex. No mention of Texas wine.

Special Thanks

Thanks to Texas Wine Lover for promotional help! For the latest information on Texas wineries and vineyards, visit Texas Wine Lover. Don’t forget to download the Texas Wine Lover app too!

Wine & Food Foundation

I’m so happy to be part of the community of wine and food lovers at The Wine & Food Foundation! Get more information about upcoming events, wine education classes, and membership options here.

Need lodging in Fredericksburg? Check out my home Cork + Cactus!

Find Cork + Cactus and many more great rentals at Heavenly Hosts.com!

View Details

Mentioned in this Episode

Connect with the Podcast:

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Visit www.thisistexaswine.com

Help the Show:

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Sponsors of this Episode

Sommly.com

Texas Wine In the News

  1. VinePair: Texas Hill Country Named one of The World’s Top 10 Wine Destinations for 2023
  2. VinePair: Becker named one of The 30 best chardonnays for 2023
  3. Cheramie Aho receives Grant from Association of African American Vintners
  4. Amie Nemec for Texas Monthly: Out-of-State Wineries Are Moving to Texas for Cheaper Land and Friendlier Competition
  5. Lubbock Radio Piece #1
  6. Lubbock Radio Piece #2

Interview with Phil Lopez of Silver Spur Vineyard and Winery

Silver Spur

Gold Star

Wine & Food Foundation’s outreach to chefs for Toast of Texas 2023. Great event!

Demerit

World Champion Houston Astros Commemorative WIne Bottlings are made from California wine.

Hail. boo.

Special Thanks

Thanks to Texas Wine Lover for promotional help! For the latest information on Texas wineries and vineyards, visit Texas Wine Lover. Don’t forget to download the Texas Wine Lover app too!

Wine & Food Foundation

I’m so happy to be part of the community of wine and food lovers at The Wine & Food Foundation! Get more information about upcoming events, wine education classes, and membership options here.

Need lodging in Fredericksburg? Check out my home Cork + Cactus!

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View Details

Mentioned in this Episode

Connect with the Podcast:

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Visit www.thisistexaswine.com

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Donate virtual Texas wine!

Leave a review on Spotify or Apple Podcasts!

Sponsors of this Episode

Bending Branch Winery’s Custom Crush Services

Sommly.com

Texas Wine In the News

  1. Lana Bortolot on Forbes.com: Women in Wine: The Texan Torch Carriers
  2. SevenFifty Daily: How Viticulture Programs Drive Success for Emerging Wine Regions
  3. William Chris Wine School
  4. WSET Course at Majek Vineyard
  5. Finger Lakes International Wine Competition entries due May 12 enter here
  6. Toast of Texas TICKETS - Use code “Shelly” for $10 off

Interview with Jon Leahy of Becker Vineyards

Becker Vineyards

Gold Star

Rootstock Wine Festival organizers and volunteers!

Special Thanks

Thanks to Texas Wine Lover for promotional help! For the latest information on Texas wineries and vineyards, visit Texas Wine Lover. Don’t forget to download the Texas Wine Lover app too!

Wine & Food Foundation

I’m so happy to be part of the community of wine and food lovers at The Wine & Food Foundation! Get more information about upcoming events, wine education classes, and membership options here.

Need lodging in Fredericksburg? Check out my home Cork + Cactus!

Find Cork + Cactus and many more great rentals at Heavenly Hosts.com!

View Details

Mentioned in this Episode

Connect with the Podcast:

Facebook: @texaswinepod

Instagram: @texaswinepod

Email: texaswinepod@gmail.com

Visit www.thisistexaswine.com

Help the Show:

Subscribe to the newsletter.

Donate virtual Texas wine!

Sponsors of this Episode

Bending Branch Winery’s Custom Crush Services

Sommly.com

Texas Wine In the News

  1. Rae Wilson named to VinePair List of 50
  2. VinePair Red Blends article features 6 Texas wines
  3. Lana Bortolot on Forbes.com Women in Wine: Focus on Texas
  4. Texas Wine History Documentary by Mark Fusco
  5. Newsom Grape Day is April 26. register here
  6. Texas Hill Country Wineries Road Show in Austin is April 17. register here
  7. Rootstock Wine Fest TICKETS - Use code “Shelly” for 10% off
  8. Toast of Texas TICKETS - Use code “Shelly” for $10 off

Interview with Dan Gatlin of Inwood Estates Winery

Inwood Estates Winery

Gold Star

Messina Hof’s article on aging wine and library wines. Read it HERE

Special Thanks

Thanks to Texas Wine Lover for promotional help! For the latest information on Texas wineries and vineyards, visit Texas Wine Lover. Don’t forget to download the Texas Wine Lover app too!

Wine & Food Foundation

I’m so happy to be part of the community of wine and food lovers at The Wine & Food Foundation! Get more information about upcoming events, wine education classes, and membership options here.

Need lodging in Fredericksburg? Check out my home Cork + Cactus!

Find Cork + Cactus and many more great rentals at Heavenly Hosts.com!

View Details

Mentioned in this Episode

Connect with the Podcast:

Facebook: @texaswinepod

Instagram: @texaswinepod

Email: texaswinepod@gmail.com

Visit www.thisistexaswine.com

Help the Show:

Subscribe to the newsletter.

Donate virtual Texas wine!

Sponsors of this Episode

Bending Branch Winery’s Custom Crush Services

Sommly.com

Texas Wine In the News

  1. Texas Wine Auction - April 29 in Fredericksburg
  2. Becker Vineyards wins Best in Show Red at American Fine Wine Competition
  3. Rootstock Wine Fest TICKETS - Use code “Shelly” for 10% off
  4. Toast of Texas TICKETS - Use code “Shelly” for $10 off

Interview with Nikhila Narra Davis and Greg Davis

Kalasi Cellars

Special Thanks

Thanks to Texas Wine Lover for promotional help! For the latest information on Texas wineries and vineyards, visit Texas Wine Lover. Don’t forget to download the Texas Wine Lover app too!

Wine & Food Foundation

I’m so happy to be part of the community of wine and food lovers at The Wine & Food Foundation! Get more information about upcoming events, wine education classes, and membership options here.

Need lodging in Fredericksburg? Check out my home Cork + Cactus!

Find Cork + Cactus and many more great rentals at Heavenly Hosts.com!

View Details

Mentioned in this Episode

Connect with the Podcast:

Facebook: @texaswinepod

Instagram: @texaswinepod

Email: texaswinepod@gmail.com

Visit www.thisistexaswine.com

Help the Show:

Subscribe to the newsletter.

Donate virtual Texas wine!

Sponsors of this Episode

Bending Branch Winery’s Custom Crush Services

Sommly.com

Texas Wine In the News

  1. Press Release about new Hickory Sands AVA Proposal
  2. Dr. Carl Hudson for Texas Wine Lover: article detailing new AVA proposals in Texas
  3. National Geographic UK: “Five of the best US cities for wine-lovers”
  4. SFGate.com: “A dozen Texas wines best California wines at annual competition”
  5. Wine Business Article: William Chris Wine Company’s Newest Winery Venture to Exclusively Feature Estate-Grown Wines
  6. Rootstock Wine Fest TICKETS - Use code “Shelly” for 10% off
  7. Toast of Texas TICKETS - Use code “Shelly” for $10 off
  8. Lubbock Uncorked Tickets
  9. Texas Wine, Hops & Shops Tickets
  10. Frisco Uncorked Tickets
  11. BBQ and Texas Wine Tour

Interview with Bryan Chagoly

Sandy Road Vineyards

Top Texas Wines

Podcast mentioned is The Wine Makers epidosde

Special Thanks

Thanks to Texas Wine Lover for promotional help! For the latest information on Texas wineries and vineyards, visit Texas Wine Lover. Don’t forget to download the Texas Wine Lover app too!

Wine & Food Foundation

I’m so happy to be part of the community of wine and food lovers at The Wine & Food Foundation! Get more information about upcoming events, wine education classes, and membership options here.

Need lodging in Fredericksburg? Check out my home Cork + Cactus!

Find Cork + Cactus and many more great rentals at Heavenly Hosts.com!

View Details

Connect with the Podcast:
Facebook: @texaswinepod

Instagram: @texaswinepod

Email: texaswinepod@gmail.com

Help the Show:

Subscribe to the podcast in Apple Podcasts

Subscribe to the newsletter.

Donate virtual Texas wine!

Mentioned in this Episode:

Sponsors

Bending Branch Winery’s Custom Crush Services

Sommly.com

Texas Wine In the News

  1. Condé Nast Traveler: “This Once-Quiet Texas Town Is Now a Booming Wine Destination”
  2. New Zealand Herald: “US travel: The surprising wine region you might never have heard of”
  3. PR NewsWire: “Finger Lakes Winery Plants New Roots in Texas”
  4. Carl Hudson for Texas Wine Lover: “Less Recognizable Grape Varieties in Texas and Their Unfamiliar Pronunciations”
  5. Wine Enthusiast: “A Beginner’s Guide to All Things Ice Wine”
  6. Rootstock Wine Fest TICKETS - Use code “Shelly” for 10% off
  7. Toast of Texas TICKETS - Use code “Shelly” for $10 off

Interview with James Tidwell, MS

Visit www.TEXSOM.com for more information about submitting wines and past winners!

Special Thanks

Thanks to Texas Wine Lover for promotional help! For the latest information on Texas wineries and vineyards, visit Texas Wine Lover. Don’t forget to download the Texas Wine Lover app too!

Wine & Food Foundation

I’m so happy to be part of the community of wine and food lovers at The Wine & Food Foundation! Get more information about upcoming events, wine education classes, and membership options here.

Need lodging in Fredericksburg? Check out my home Cork + Cactus!

Find Cork + Cactus and many more great rentals at Heavenly Hosts.com!

View Details

Connect with the Podcast:

Facebook: @texaswinepod

Instagram: @texaswinepod

Email: texaswinepod@gmail.com

Help the Show:

Buy Shelly a Glass of Wine!

Subscribe to the newsletter to get the Texas wine crossword puzzle!

Mentioned in this Episode

Looking for a custom crush partner? Bending Branch Winery offers full spectrum bin-to-bottle services. The experienced winemaking team specializes in red wine production. Advanced extraction options are available to get the most out of red wine grapes. Join Bending Branch and its clients in producing highly awarded wines. Contact Dr. Bob Young by email at bob@bendingbranch.com for more information.

www.BendingBranchWinery.com

Nothing replaces a visit to the tasting room, but on occasions you can’t swing a visit to wine country – consider bringing the winery experience to your home with Sommly! Sommly features many of the highest quality, small production wines you won’t find in stores or restaurants. Wine lovers like yourself can discover, and get the very best Texas wine shipped right to your doorstep.

And Texas wineries - join the direct-to-consumer digital wine movement! You can now claim, customize, and list your wines for sale on Sommly’s Marketplace in minutes. With Sommly, you can grow your DTC wine sales, club memberships, and visits to your tasting room.

Whether you’re a wine lover or a winemaker, check it out today at sommly.com.

In Texas Wine News

  1. Wine Enthusiast: How Low Yields Are Spurring Texas Winemakers’ Creativity

  2. Adelphos Cellars Announces Tasting Room and Event Center

  3. Thrillist: Where to Find the Coolest Urban Wineries in the US

  4. Silicon Valley Bank’s “State of the Wine Industry 2023” Full Report

  5. Silicon Valley Bank Report Video Summary

  6. San Francisco Chronicle Wine Competition Results - Texas results sorted on Texas Wine Lover

  7. Rootstock Wine Fest - April 13

  8. Wine & Food Foundation’s Toast of Texas - April 23

  9. Women for WineSense - National Meeting in Fredericksburg May 18–20

  10. Download: Texas Wine Lover App!

Interview

John Hoefliger

Texas Wine Consulting

Jean Hoefliger Consulting

Gold Star

To William Chris Wine Co for representing Texas in the Rhone Rangers tasting experience this month in California.

Special Thanks

Thanks to Texas Wine Lover for promotional help! For the latest information on Texas wineries and vineyards, visit Texas Wine Lover. Don’t forget to download the Texas Wine Lover app!

Wine & Food Foundation

I’m so happy to be part of the community of wine and food lovers at The Wine & Food Foundation! Get more information about upcoming events, the IMBIBE: The WFF Education Series, and find membership options here.

Need lodging in Fredericksburg? Check out my home Cork + Cactus!

Find Cork + Cactus and many more great rentals at Heavenly Hosts.com!

View Details

Connect with the Podcast:

Facebook: @texaswinepod

Instagram: @texaswinepod

Twitter: @texaswinepod

Email: texaswinepod@gmail.com

Help the Show:

Buy Shelly a Glass of Wine!

Subscribe to the newsletter to get the Texas wine crossword puzzle!

Mentioned in this Episode

The holidays are here, and it’s time to deck the halls with wine! Nothing pairs better with holiday dinner parties than a bottle of award-winning Texas wine.

Do you also have an uncle who is impossible to gift? Wine makes a great gift for family, friends, and customers, and Sommly has curated bundles that work for all budgets.

Bring the Texas winery experience to your doorstep.

Check out the “Buy Wine” section on Sommly.com to see all of the bottles and bundles that are available.

In Texas Wine News

  1. San Francisco International Wine Competition: Red Wine Winners

  2. San Francisco International Wine Competition: White Wine Winners

  3. Lost Draw Cellars’ Expansion News from Summer 2022

  4. Jefferson Cup Results

  5. Forbes: December wines from Virginia, Texas and California

  6. COURSE ANNOUNCEMENT: Texas Wine Marking Research Institute’s “Licensing and Compliance in the Wine Industry”

  7. COURSE ANNOUNCEMENT: Texas Hill Country Wineries and William Chris Wine Co’s “Texas Wine Certification Course”

  8. Download The Vind App to help plan your trip to the Texas Hill Country!

Interview

John Rivenburgh

Kerrville Hills Winery

Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Study Referenced: LINK

Special Thanks

Thanks to Texas Wine Lover for promotional help! For the latest information on Texas wineries and vineyards, visit Texas Wine Lover

Wine & Food Foundation

I’m so happy to be part of the community of wine and food lovers at The Wine & Food Foundation! Get more information about upcoming events, the IMBIBE: The WFF Education Series, and find membership options here.

Need lodging in Fredericksburg? Check out my home Cork + Cactus!

Find Cork + Cactus and many more great rentals at Heavenly Hosts.com!

View Details

Connect with the Podcast:

Facebook: @texaswinepod

Instagram: @texaswinepod

Twitter: @texaswinepod

Email: texaswinepod@gmail.com

Help the Show:

Buy Shelly a Glass of Wine!

Subscribe to the newsletter to get the Texas wine crossword puzzle!

Mentioned in this Episode

The holidays are here, and it’s time to deck the halls with wine! Nothing pairs better with holiday dinner parties than a bottle of award-winning Texas wine.

Do you also have an uncle who is impossible to gift? Wine makes a great gift for family, friends, and customers, and Sommly has curated bundles that work for all budgets.

Bring the Texas winery experience to your doorstep. Deliveries are set to align with Christmas.

Check out the “Buy Wine” section on Sommly.com to see all of the bottles and bundles that are available.

In Texas Wine News

  1. Results from Houston Rodeo’s Uncorked International Wine Competition

  2. Holiday Gift Ideas -

From the Dallas Morning News: Texas Fine Wine Red Wine Bundle

From Big Tex himself: Sommly’s Bone Dry Bundle

  1. Inside Hook: 5 Sommelier-Approved Texas Wines to Drink During the Holidays

  2. Wine for Normal People Podcast: Episode 448 with Dr. Kevin Pogue - discussion on AVAs and terrior

Interview

Adrienne Ballou

Lightsome Wines

Nice n Easy

Article referenced in the interview:

SevenFifty Daily: The Wine Mavericks That Heralded a New Generation at U.C. Davis

Special Thanks

Thanks to Texas Wine Lover for promotional help! For the latest information on Texas wineries and vineyards, visit Texas Wine Lover

Wine & Food Foundation

I’m so happy to be part of the community of wine and food lovers at The Wine & Food Foundation! Get more information about upcoming events, the IMBIBE: The WFF Education Series, and find membership options here.

Need lodging in Fredericksburg? Check out my home Cork + Cactus!

Find Cork + Cactus and many more great rentals at Heavenly Hosts.com!

View Details

Connect with the Podcast:

Facebook: @texaswinepod

Instagram: @texaswinepod

Twitter: @texaswinepod

Email: texaswinepod@gmail.com

Help the Show:

Buy Shelly a Glass of Wine!

Subscribe to the newsletter to get the Texas wine crossword puzzle!

Mentioned in this Episode

‘Tis the season to Drink It All In! at the 2022 Christmas Wine Affair! November 28th through December 23rd, you can sip your way through over 35 unique Texas Hill Country Wineries, sample award-winning wines at up to four wineries per day, and receive exclusive discounts on bottle purchases!

Buy your passport ticket to The Christmas Wine Affair at www.texaswinetrail.com and Head for the Hills - November 28th through December 23rd.

Hey podcast listeners,

The State Fair of Texas has wrapped up for the year, but the fair’s curated list of sixteen award winning Blue Ribbon wines representing twelve Texas wineries are now available on Sommly! These wines were hand-selected by yours truly as a representation of the highest quality wines that Texas has to offer. For a limited time, you can support local businesses and bring the Texas winery experience to your doorstep.

Delivery is set to align with Christmas, so wine lovers can share a bottle of award-winning Texas wine that pairs perfectly with holiday dinner parties or to give as gifts. Bundles are perfect for that wine-lover in your life, and with bottle counts of 3, 6, or 12, there’s one for every budget.

Check out the “Buy Wine” section on sommly.com to see all of the bundles that are available.

In Texas Wine News

  1. Halter Ranch Winery from Paso Robles is Opening a Tasting Room in Fredericksburg

  2. Charitable Wines for Thanksgiving and Beyond:

Messina Hof - The Museum Collection

William Chris Wine Co - Wanderer Series: Relief Project

Kerrville Hills Winery - Conservino Wines

  1. William Chris Vineyards named to World’s Best Vineyards List

  2. Celebrate Beaujolais Nouveau Day with Lewis Wines

  3. December 10 is the final deadline for ordering Blue Ribbon Wine bundles or cases from Sommly.com

  4. Save the date for the 1st podcast happy hour! Tuesday, November 29 at 6 p.m.

Interview

Glena Yates, President of Texas Wine & Grape Growers Association (TWGGA)

Special Thanks

Thanks to Texas Wine Lover for promotional help! For the latest information on Texas wineries and vineyards, visit Texas Wine Lover

Wine & Food Foundation

I’m so happy to be part of the community of wine and food lovers at The Wine & Food Foundation! Get more information about upcoming events, the IMBIBE: The WFF Education Series, and find membership options here.

Need lodging in Fredericksburg? Check out my home Cork + Cactus!

Find Cork + Cactus and many more great rentals at Heavenly Hosts.com!

View Details

Connect with the Podcast:

Facebook: @texaswinepod

Instagram: @texaswinepod

Twitter: @texaswinepod

Email: texaswinepod@gmail.com

Help the Show:

Buy Shelly a Glass of Wine!

Subscribe to the newsletter to get the Texas wine crossword puzzle!

Mentioned in this Episode

‘Tis the season to drink it all in at the 2022 Christmas Wine Affair! November 28th through December 23rd, you can sip your way through over thirty-five unique Texas Hill Country Wineries, sample award-winning wines at up to four wineries per day, and receive exclusive discounts on bottle purchases!

Buy your passport ticket to The Christmas Wine Affair at www.texaswinetrail.com and head for the hills November 28th through December 23rd.

Hey podcast listeners,

Have you ever wanted to bring the winery experience home? With Sommly, you can! Now get the very best Texas wine shipped right to your doorstep.

Sommly features many of the highest quality, small production wines you won’t find in retail or restaurants.

Check it out for yourself - sign up, discover, and shop local today at

sommly.com.

In Texas Wine News

  1. State Fair’s Blue Ribbon Wines are for sale now!

  2. Carl Hudson for Texas Wine Lover: Texas AVA Background

  3. Slate Mill Wine Collective is now Invention Vineyards

  4. TWGGA’s Lone Star International Wine Competition Results

  5. Wine Enthusiast: “Does Sound Affect Our Perception of Taste? These Wine Experts Think So”

  6. Texas Wine Certification at Texas Hill Country Wineries Symposium

  7. Save the date for the 1st podcast happy hour! November 30 at 6 p.m. on Zoom.

Interview

Lynne Majek of Majek Vineyard & Winery

@majekvineyard on socials

Special Thanks

Thanks to Texas Wine Lover for promotional help! For the latest information on Texas wineries and vineyards, visit Texas Wine Lover

Wine & Food Foundation

I’m so happy to be part of the community of wine and food lovers at The Wine & Food Foundation! Get more information about upcoming events, the IMBIBE: The WFF Education Series, and find membership options here.

Need lodging in Fredericksburg? Check out my home Cork + Cactus!

Find Cork + Cactus and many more great rentals at Heavenly Hosts.com!

View Details

Connect with the Podcast:

Facebook: @texaswinepod

Instagram: @texaswinepod

Twitter: @texaswinepod

Email: texaswinepod@gmail.com

Help the Show:

Buy Shelly a Glass of Wine!

Subscribe to the newsletter to get the Texas wine crossword puzzle!

Mentioned in this Episode

Hey podcast listeners,

Have you ever wanted to bring the winery experience home? With Sommly, you can! Now get the very best Texas wine shipped right to your doorstep.

Sommly features many of the highest quality, small production wines you won’t find in retail or restaurants.

Check it out for yourself - sign up, discover, and shop local today at

sommly.com.

  1. San Antonio Express News: William Chris Wine Co. founders strive to grow Texas wine industry’s reputation
  2. Forbes: How Climate Change Is Impacting Winemakers In Texas
  3. Save the Date for the 2023 Texas Wine Auction - April 29!! Get more information here
  4. Code to save $10 on Texas Harvest Wine Tasting at Dallas Farmers Market on Oct 28 is TXWinePodcast10 LINK to tickets
  5. Southern-most winery and vineyard in Texas: Bonita Flats Farm and Vineyard in Los Fresnos
  6. Northern-most winery and vineyard in Texas: Vingo Vineyard / Yoder Cellars in Dalhart
  7. Highest elevation vineuard in Texas in the Texas Davis Mountains AVA: The Vineyard at Blue Mountain
  8. Hottest vineyard in Texas: Hell’s Half Acre Vineyard in Terlingua

Interview

Sergio Cuadra of Fall Creek Vineyards

Gold Star

GrapeFest Gold Medal Winners

Special Thanks

Thanks to Texas Wine Lover for promotional help! For the latest information on Texas wineries and vineyards, visit Texas Wine Lover

Wine & Food Foundation

I’m so happy to be part of the community of wine and food lovers at The Wine & Food Foundation! Get more information about upcoming events, the IMBIBE: The WFF Education Series, and find membership options here.

Need lodging in Fredericksburg? Check out my home Cork + Cactus!

Find Cork + Cactus and many more great rentals at Heavenly Hosts.com!

View Details

Connect with the Podcast:

Facebook: @texaswinepod

Instagram: @texaswinepod

Twitter: @texaswinepod

Email: texaswinepod@gmail.com

Help the Show:

Buy Shelly a Glass of Wine!

Subscribe to the newsletter to get the Texas wine crossword puzzle!

Mentioned in this Episode

Hey podcast listeners,

I’m excited to share that you can now support local winemakers by shopping for wine on sommly.com, where you can find over 450 Texas wineries and 80 wines available for purchase - direct from each winery!

If you’re a Texas winery, claim your page to add photos, team members, and additional info about your winery for free!

If you’re a wine lover, join me in creating a free profile at sommly.com to give your favorite Texas wineries a great review.

  1. Texas A&M AgriLife Report: Crush Report and Vineyard Production Survey
  2. Wine America Study
  3. Meet Decanter’s US Team
  4. Wine for the People is moving to central Austin
  5. Jenblossom Cellars, from the owners of Heath Sparkling Wine and Grape Creek
  6. Seth Urbanek promoted to GM at Wedding Oak Winery
  7. Texas Fine Wine Talk & Tastes Oct 13 and Dec 8
  8. Another podcast meetup opportunity at the State Fair of Texas (Texas Wine Garden): October 18 at 5 PM
  9. Code to save $10 on Texas Harvest Wine Tasting at Dallas Farmers Market on Oct 28 is TXWinePodcast10 LINK to tickets

Interview

Don Pullum

ABC’s The Taste - Don Pullum

Culinaria and James Beard Foundation present Tasting Texas Food + Wine Festival in San Antonio

Gold Star

Silver Award Winners:

Llano Estacado Winery’s 2018 Syrah and 2019 “La Violette” Syrah

Cheramie Wine’s 2019 Riesling

Andrew Chalk’s article about the competition

Special Thanks

Thanks to Texas Wine Lover for promotional help! For the latest information on Texas wineries and vineyards, visit Texas Wine Lover

Wine & Food Foundation

I’m so happy to be part of the community of wine and food lovers at The Wine & Food Foundation! Get more information about upcoming events, the IMBIBE: The WFF Education Series, and find membership options here.

Need lodging in Fredericksburg? Check out my home Cork + Cactus!

Cork + Cactus on AirBnB

Find Cork + Cactus and many more great rentals at Heavenly Hosts.com!

View Details

Connect with the Podcast:

Facebook: @texaswinepod

Instagram: @texaswinepod

Twitter: @texaswinepod

Email: texaswinepod@gmail.com

Help the Show:

Buy Shelly a Glass of Wine!

Subscribe to the newsletter to get the Texas wine crossword puzzle!

Mentioned in this Episode

Hey podcast listeners,

I’m excited to share that you can now support local winemakers by shopping for wine on sommly.com, where you can find over 450 Texas wineries and 80 wines available for purchase - direct from each winery!

If you’re a Texas winery, claim your page to add photos, team members, and additional info about your winery for free!

If you’re a wine lover, join me in creating a free profile at sommly.com to give your favorite Texas wineries a great review.

  1. Texas Monthly: 2022 Vintners Cup Winners
  2. Texas Monthly: “A West Texas Winery—Once the Largest in the State—Has Closed Up Shop”
  3. Texas Hill Country Wineries Houston Roadshow LINK to tickets
  4. Podcast Meet-up: Sunday, October 2 from 4–6 in the Texas Wine Garden at the State Fair of Texas!
  5. Texas Harvest Wine Tasting at Dallas Farmers Market on Oct 28 LINK to tickets

Interview

Victoria Calais, Co-Owner at French Connection Wines

Donna Rene Johnston, Administrative Director at Kerrville Hills Winery and The Hill at Hye

Suggested apps and research sites:

Texas Wine Lover
The Vind App
Texas Tasting Trail App
Texas Hill Country Wineries
North Texas Wine Country

Special Thanks
Thanks to Texas Wine Lover for promotional help! For the latest information on Texas wineries and vineyards, visit Texas Wine Lover

Wine & Food Foundation

I’m so happy to be part of the community of wine and food lovers at The Wine & Food Foundation! Get more information about upcoming events, the IMBIBE: The WFF Education Series, and find membership options here.

Need lodging in Fredericksburg? Check out my home Cork + Cactus!

Cork + Cactus on AirBnB

Find Cork + Cactus and many more great rentals at Heavenly Hosts.com!

View Details

Connect with the Podcast:

Facebook: @texaswinepod

Instagram: @texaswinepod

Twitter: @texaswinepod

Email: texaswinepod@gmail.com

Help the Show:

Buy Shelly a Glass of Wine!

Subscribe to the newsletter to get the Texas wine crossword puzzle!

Mentioned in this Episode

Hey podcast listeners,

Get ready for Texas Wine Month with the 2022 Texas Wine Month Passport! In October, this self-guided tour is your passport to tasting award-winning wines at over forty unique wineries. As a passport holder, you can visit up to four wineries per day — all at your own pace — plus, receive exclusive discounts on bottle purchases!

Plan ahead and buy your tickets while they are still available at Texas wine trail dot com, and head for the hills. Texas Wine Month is from October 1st through October 31st.

Buy your tickets now at www.texaswinetrail.com and head for the hills all month of October.

Now it's easier than ever to support local producers, and to get the best Texas wine shipped right to your doorstep! Sommly features many of the highest quality, small production wines you won't find in retail. We all have that friend or family member who's impossible to shop for... Sommly is your "easy button". Check it out for yourself - sign up, discover, and shop local today at sommly.com.

  1. W Blake Gray on Wine-Searcher.com “Texas Winemakers Take What They Can Get”
  2. Texas Harvest Report on Texas Wine Lover
  3. Keep up with the State Fair of Texas Big Tex Blog for articles on Texas Wine! LINK

Texas Wine in 10 Minutes

Resources:

Texas Wine & Grape Growers Association - TWGGA

Uncork Texas Wines - Texas Department of Agriculture

Texas Wine Lover Website

Alcohol & Tobacco Tax & Trade Bureau

Texas Wine Grape Varieties Report

Vintage Texas Blog

Wine Consumption by State

Wine Production by State

Best book on Texas wine: “Wines of The Southwest USA” by Jessica Dupuy

Special Thanks

Thanks to Texas Wine Lover for promotional help! For the latest information on Texas wineries and vineyards, visit Texas Wine Lover

Wine & Food Foundation

I’m so happy to be part of the community of wine and food lovers at The Wine & Food Foundation! Get more information about upcoming events, the IMBIBE: The WFF Education Series, and find membership options here.

Need lodging in Fredericksburg? Check out my home Cork + Cactus!

Cork + Cactus on AirBnB

Find Cork + Cactus and many more great rentals at Heavenly Hosts.com!

View Details

Connect with the Podcast:

Facebook: @texaswinepod

Instagram: @texaswinepod

Twitter: @texaswinepod

Email: texaswinepod@gmail.com

Help the Show:

Buy Shelly a Glass of Wine!

Subscribe to the newsletter to get the Texas wine crossword puzzle!

Mentioned in this Episode

Hey podcast listeners,

I’m excited to share that you can now support local winemakers by shopping for wine on sommly.com, where you can find over 450 Texas wineries and 80 wines available for purchase - direct from each winery!

If you’re a Texas winery, claim your page to add photos, team members, and additional info about your winery for free!

If you’re a wine lover, join me in creating a free profile at sommly.com to give your favorite Texas wineries a great review.

Texas Hill Country Wineries invites you to “Drink it All in” with the 2022 Texas Wine Month Passport. This self-guided tour is your passport to exploring over forty wineries in the Texas Hill Country between October 1 and 31. As a passport holder, you can visit up to four wineries per day for all thirty-one days, plus receive exclusive discounts on bottle purchases!

Buy your tickets now at www.texaswinetrail.com and head for the hills all month of October.

  1. Lana Bortolot for Forbes “Wines for Your Sunday BBQ”
  2. Press Release: Kalasi Cellars Brings Optical Grape Sorting to Texas
  3. Dallas Morning News: The Best Things We Ate Last Week … were Kuhlman Cellars’ Herbed Almonds!
  4. Dallas Morning News “Eat Drink D-FW” Podcast: “Texas’ Wine Industry is Bigger and Better Than Ever” Apple Podcast Link
  5. Texas High Plains Wine Trail
  6. Register for TWGGA’s Grape Camp
  7. Get Tickets to Texas Wine Jam 9/4
  8. Texas Fine Wine’s Summer Sunset Cruise 9/8 and Texas Wine Month Dinner 9/30

Interview with Kyle Frazier, TWGGA Legislative Advocate

TWGGA Advocacy News

Gold Star

Kudos to podcast listeners for being awesome!

Demerit

None this time.

Special Thanks

Thanks to Texas Wine Lover for promotional help! For the latest information on Texas wineries and vineyards, visit Texas Wine Lover

Wine & Food Foundation

I’m so happy to be part of the community of wine and food lovers at The Wine & Food Foundation! Get more information about upcoming events, the IMBIBE: The WFF Education Series, and find membership options here.

Need lodging in Fredericksburg? Check out my home Cork + Cactus!

Cork + Cactus on AirBnB

Find Cork + Cactus and many more great rentals at Heavenly Hosts.com!

View Details

Connect with the Podcast:

Facebook: @texaswinepod

Instagram: @texaswinepod

Twitter: @texaswinepod

Email: texaswinepod@gmail.com

Voicemail: 802–585–1286

Help the Show:

Buy Shelly a Glass of Wine!

Subscribe to the newsletter to get the Texas wine crossword puzzle!

Mentioned in this Episode

Hey podcast listeners,

I’m excited to share that you can now support local winemakers by shopping for wine on sommly.com, where you can find over 450 Texas wineries and 80 wines available for purchase - direct from each winery!

If you’re a Texas winery, claim your page to add photos, team members, and additional info about your winery for free!

If you’re a wine lover, join me in creating a free profile at sommly.com to give your favorite Texas wineries a great review.

  1. Results from 2022 Finger Lakes International Wine Competition
  2. Results from TEXSOM Awards 2022
  3. Texas Hill Country Wineries’ Press Release on TEXSOM Awards Results
  4. texaswinelover.com: Rhinos + Winery = Rhinory: New Fredericksburg Winery Makes a Splash in Rhino Conservation and at TEXSOM Wine Awards
  5. Cabernet Grill Featured on GrapeCollective.com
  6. Dallas Morning News: How this North Texas wine school is bolstering a new boom of Black winemakers: Grayson College caters to professionals looking to transition into the wine industry.”
  7. William Chris Wine Co. Announces New Lost Draw Cellars Location in Johnson City
  8. Wine Enthusiast: “How Herbicides Are Threatening Texas Wine Production”
  9. Vinovium’s Wine Jam on September 4
  10. Texas Fine Wine’s Summer Sunset Cruise 9/8 and Texas Wine Month Dinner 9/30
  11. Tasting Texas Wine + Food Festival in San Antonio

Interview with Clint Thomas of Cellar Rat Wine Tours

Cellar Rat Wine Tours

Gold Star

The podcast just celebrated TWO YEARS!

Demerit

Wine Enthusiast will no longer rate wines from Texas. Read more about it HERE

Special Thanks

Thanks to Texas Wine Lover for promotional help! For the latest information on Texas wineries and vineyards, visit Texas Wine Lover

Wine & Food Foundation

I’m so happy to be part of the community of wine and food lovers at The Wine & Food Foundation! Get more information about upcoming events, the IMBIBE: The WFF Education Series, and find membership options here.

Need lodging in Fredericksburg? Check out my home Cork + Cactus!

Cork + Cactus on AirBnB

Find Cork + Cactus and many more great rentals at Heavenly Hosts.com!

View Details

Connect with the Podcast:

Facebook: @texaswinepod

Instagram: @texaswinepod

Twitter: @texaswinepod

Email: texaswinepod@gmail.com

Voicemail: 802–585–1286

Help the Show:

Buy Shelly a Glass of Wine!

Subscribe to the newsletter to get the Texas wine crossword puzzle!

Mentioned in this Episode

Hey podcast listeners,

I’m excited to share that you can now support local winemakers by shopping for wine on sommly.com, where you can find over 450 Texas wineries and 80 wines available for purchase - direct from each winery!

If you’re a Texas winery, claim your page to add photos, team members, and additional info about your winery for free!

If you’re a wine lover, join me in creating a free profile at sommly.com to give your favorite Texas wineries a great review.

  1. Join me at Wine & Food Foundation’s Toast of Texas on June 5! Use code SHELLY for $10 off! More information HERE
  2. Julie Kuhlken of Pedernales Cellars on Good Morning America
  3. Austin Business Journal: “Austin startup Sommly eager to disrupt wine industry”
  4. Chron.com: "In Texas Hill Country, Johnson City is the new, cooler Fredericksburg”
  5. Houstonia: “How to Spend a Perfect Weekend in Lubbock”
  6. Vinepair: “We Asked 8 Sommeliers: What’s the Most Underrated American Wine Region?”
  7. Dallas Morning News: “$13 billion boom: Why Texas wine is entering its best era yet”
  8. Dallas Morning News: “25 Texas wines to try in summer 2022”
  9. Wine Spectator: “‘Texas Wines’ Celebrates Winemaking in the Lone Star State”
  10. Link to Robert Burks’ Documentary “Texas Wines”
  11. Call for Entries for Texas Monthly 2022 Vintners Cup

Interview with Ricky Taylor of Alta Marfa

Alta Marfa

Gold Star

Cheers to the best TEXSOM Awards Panel! Stay tuned for TEXSOM Awards results HERE

Special Thanks
Thanks to Texas Wine Lover for promotional help! For the latest information on Texas wineries and vineyards, visit Texas Wine Lover

Wine & Food Foundation

I’m so happy to be part of the community of wine and food lovers at The Wine & Food Foundation! Get more information about upcoming events and find membership options here.

Need lodging in Fredericksburg? Check out my home Cork + Cactus!

Cork + Cactus on AirBnB
Find Cork + Cactus and many more great rentals at Heavenly Hosts.com!

View Details

Connect with the Podcast:

Facebook: @texaswinepod

Instagram: @texaswinepod

Twitter: @texaswinepod

Email: texaswinepod@gmail.com

Voicemail: 802–585–1286

Help the Show:

Buy Shelly a Glass of Wine!

Subscribe to the newsletter to get the Texas wine crossword puzzle!

Mentioned in this Episode

I’m excited to announce the launch of Sommly, a direct-to-consumer marketplace for artisan Texas wine!

If you’re a Texas winery, claim your free winery page today. Soon you’ll be able to list all of your wines and club memberships for wine lovers to purchase on Sommly.com.

If you’re a wine consumer like me, search for your favorite local wineries on Sommly and give them a great review.

Please join me in spreading the word, and helping folks discover the Texas wine industry! And follow @sommly.wine on Instagram for the latest updates.

  1. Join me at Wine & Food Foundation’s Toast of Texas on June 5! Use code SHELLY for $10 off! More information HERE
  2. Grape Collective: Tasting Texas: Tempranillo, Tourism and Tesla
  3. Wine Enthusiast features Sandy Road Vineyards in Four Global ‘Treehouse Tastings’ That Connect Wine and Nature
  4. Austin Monthly: The Local Wines to Drink Poolside This Summer
  5. Texas Highways: Nice N Easy Serves Craft Beer and Wine in One of Johnson City’s Oldest Buildings

Need lodging in Fredericksburg? Check out my home Cork + Cactus!

Cork + Cactus on AirBnB

Find Cork + Cactus and many more great rentals at Heavenly Hosts.com!

Interview with Michael Bilger of Adega Vinhö

Adega Vinhö

Wine Education

Vine Pair: Albariño and Alvarinho are the Same Grape!

Thanks to Texas Wine Lover for promotional help! For the latest information on Texas wineries and vineyards, visit Texas Wine Lover

Wine & Food Foundation

I’m so happy to be part of the community of wine and food lovers at The Wine & Food Foundation! Get more information about upcoming events, the IMBIBE: The WFF Education Series, and find membership options here.

View Details

Connect with the Podcast:

Facebook: @texaswinepod
Instagram: @texaswinepod
Twitter: @texaswinepod
Email: texaswinepod@gmail.com
Voicemail: 802–585–1286

Help the Show:

Buy Shelly a Glass of Wine! Subscribe to the newsletter to get the Texas wine crossword puzzle!

Mentioned in this Episode

I’m excited to announce the launch of Sommly, a direct-to-consumer marketplace for artisan Texas wine! If you’re a Texas winery, claim your free winery page today. Soon you’ll be able to list all of your wines and club memberships for wine lovers to purchase on Sommly.com. If you’re a wine consumer like me, search for your favorite local wineries on Sommly and give them a great review. Please join me in spreading the word, and helping folks discover the Texas wine industry! And follow @sommly.wine on Instagram for the latest updates.

  1. Join me at Wine & Food Foundation’s Toast of Texas on June 5! Use code SHELLY for $10 off! VIP event is only for members of WFF. More information HERE
  2. Tasting Table: Top 20 Wine Bars in the Nation includes Times Ten Cellars in Dallas and High Street Wine Co. in San Antonio.
  3. Best Little Wine & Books in Lockhart
  4. Chris Missick’s Viticulture Podcast features two episodes (38 and 39) on the Texas wine industry.
  5. Wesley Cable’s Obsessed with Wine )odcast and an interview with yours truly.
  6. SommTV Online Magazine: Texas High Plains Article by Shelly Wilfong

Need lodging in Fredericksburg? Check out my home Cork + Cactus!
Cork + Cactus on AirBnB

Find Cork + Cactus and many more great rentals at Heavenly Hosts.com!

Interview with Jen Beckmann of Re:Rooted 210 Urban Winery

Re:Rooted 210

Demerits and Gold Stars
Gold Star: Newsom Grape Day 2022
Gold Star: Sage’s Symposium at Sage’s Vintage

Demerit: Austin homeowner who partners with Napa winery for home’s private wine label, yet boasts of Texas Wine Country location.
Listing

Thanks to Texas Wine Lover for promotional help! For the latest information on Texas wineries and vineyards, visit Texas Wine Lover

Wine & Food Foundation

I’m so happy to be part of the community of wine and food lovers at The Wine & Food Foundation! Get more information about upcoming events, the IMBIBE: The WFF Education Series, and find membership options here.

View Details

Connect with the Podcast:

Facebook: @texaswinepod
Instagram: @texaswinepod
Twitter: @texaswinepod
Email: texaswinepod@gmail.com
Voicemail: 802–585–1286

Help the Show:

Buy Shelly a Glass of Wine! Subscribe to the newsletter to get the Texas wine crossword puzzle!

Mentioned in this Episode

Texas Hill Country Wineries invite you to “Drink it All in” at the 2022 Wine and Wildflower Journey. Right now, through April 22nd, this self-guided tour is your passport to exploring over forty wineries in Texas Hill Country. As a passport holder, you can visit up to four wineries per day over twenty-three days, plus receive exclusive discounts on bottle purchases!

Buy your digital passport at www.texaswinetrail.com and head for the hills, now through April 22nd.

I’m excited to announce the launch of Sommly, a direct-to-consumer marketplace for artisan Texas wine! If you’re a Texas winery, claim your free winery page today. Soon you’ll be able to list all of your wines and club memberships for wine lovers to purchase on Sommly.com. If you’re a wine consumer like me, search for your favorite local wineries on Sommly and give them a great review. Please join me in spreading the word, and helping folks discover the Texas wine industry! And follow @sommly.wine on Instagram for the latest updates.

  1. Join me at Wine & Food Foundation’s Toast of Texas on June 5! Use code SHELLY for $10 off! VIP event is only for members of WFF. More information HERE
  2. A new app can help plan your Texas Wine Country trip. Download The Vind to see suggested itineraries from people in the know!
  3. Camp at 4R Ranch Vineyards and Winery! Get details HERE
  4. Texas Wine Lover website has a list of wineries across the state that operate lodging facilities. See the full list HERE
  5. Wine Spectator on Texas High Plains Dicamba drift issue
  6. Enter the TEXSOM Awards!
  7. Texas Monthly: Everything You Need to Know About Hosting a Crawfish Boil (including wine selections!)
  8. Texas Wine documentary premiers in Dallas at USA Film Festival! See Film on YouTube HERE

Need lodging in Fredericksburg? Check out my home Cork + Cactus!

Cork + Cactus on AirBnB

Find Cork + Cactus and many more great rentals at Heavenly Hosts.com!

Interview with Regan Meador of Southold Farm + Cellar

Southold Farm + Cellar

Demerits and Gold Stars

Demerit: Napa Valley Register article on Kerrville features H-E-B’s California wines selections. #drinklocal

Gold Star: Mason’s Art & Wine Festival! And Adelphos Cellars!
New Mason wineries mentioned:
Peters Prairie Vineyard
Saba Winery

Mason favorites:
Fly Gap Winery
Robert Clay Vineyards

And congrats to Adelphos Cellars for winning the People’s Choice award at Lubbock Uncorked!

Thanks to Texas Wine Lover for promotional help! For the latest information on Texas wineries and vineyards, visit Texas Wine Lover

Wine & Food Foundation

I’m so happy to be part of the community of wine and food lovers at The Wine & Food Foundation! Get more information about upcoming events, the IMBIBE: The WFF Education Series, and find membership options here.

View Details

Connect with the Podcast:

Facebook: @texaswinepod

Instagram: @texaswinepod

Twitter: @texaswinepod

Email: texaswinepod@gmail.com

Voicemail: 802–585–1286

Help the Show:

Buy Shelly a Glass of Wine!

Subscribe to the newsletter to get the Texas wine crossword puzzle!

Listen and Subscribe in Apple Podcasts

Listen and Subscribe in Google Podcasts

Listen via web browser

Mentioned in this Episode

Texas Hill Country Wineries invite you to “Drink it All in” at the 2022 Wine and Wildflower Journey. Right now, through April 22nd, this self-guided tour is your passport to exploring over forty wineries in Texas Hill Country. As a passport holder, you can visit up to four wineries per day over twenty-three days, plus receive exclusive discounts on bottle purchases!

Buy your digital passport at www.texaswinetrail.com and head for the hills, now through April 22nd.

I’m excited to announce the launch of Sommly, a direct-to-consumer marketplace for artisan Texas wine! If you’re a Texas winery, claim your free winery page today. Soon you’ll be able to list all of your wines and club memberships for wine lovers to purchase on Sommly.com. If you’re a wine consumer like me, search for your favorite local wineries on Sommly and give them a great review. Please join me in spreading the word, and helping folks discover the Texas wine industry! And follow @sommly.wine on Instagram for the latest updates.

  1. Resources for fire relief:
    Texas Farm Bureau
    Big Country Relief Fund
  2. . Southern Living’s Article on College Station
  3. Video on Esperanza Winery
  4. San Antonio Express News: It’s always wine o’clock: Texas Hill Country winery industry sees 625% growth in decade
  5. Vinepair: If You Love the Wines of Bordeaux, It’s Time to Give Texas Hill Country a Try
  6. Jean Hoefliger Joins Texas Wine Collective
  7. Jean Hoefliger Talks Texas Wine in Recent Interview (video)
  8. Andrew Chalk’s Review of Wines Presented by Wedding Oak, Fall Creek Vineyards and Spicewood Vineyards
  9. Waco’s Rootstock: A Texas Wine Festival
  10. Visit San Antonio and the James Beard Foundation: Tasting Texas Wine + Food Festival
  11. Join me at Wine & Food Foundation’s Toast of Texas on June 5! Watch my social media for discount code. VIP event is only for members of WFF. More information HERE
  12. Event for Cactus Christmas author Heather Renee May DETAILS

Thanks to the Texas Department of Agriculture’s Texas Wine Marketing Assistance Program for sponsoring this podcast! Learn more at www.uncorktexaswines.com.

Need lodging in Fredericksburg? Check out my home Cork + Cactus!

Cork + Cactus on AirBnB

Find Cork + Cactus and many more great rentals at Heavenly Hosts.com!

Interview with Tiffany Farrell and Kyle Johnston of Haak Winery

Haak Winery

Demerits and Gold Stars

Demerit: City of Plano for not including Texas wine in the Texas Forever Fest. Texas beer and spirits were included. Why not Texas wine?
Gold Star: Bending Branch 2014 Tannat - Newsom Vineyard was poured at the Wine Museum of Paris. O la la! Read more about it HERE

Thanks to Texas Wine Lover for promotional help! For the latest information on Texas wineries and vineyards, visit Texas Wine Lover

Wine & Food Foundation

I’m so happy to be part of the community of wine and food lovers at The Wine & Food Foundation! Get more information about upcoming events, the IMBIBE: The WFF Education Series, and find membership options here.

View Details

Connect with the Podcast:

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Buy Shelly a Glass of Wine!

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Mentioned in this Episode

Original story in TexasMonthly.com The Texas Wine Industry Is Just Getting Started. Grape Farmers Say the End Is Near.

Michael Hardy’s contact information can be found HERE

View Details

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Buy Shelly a Glass of Wine!

Subscribe to the newsletter to get the Texas wine crossword puzzle!

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Mentioned in this Episode

Sommly is an online marketplace where wine enthusiasts can explore wineries, join wine clubs, read reviews and buy or give the gift of Texas wine. Similar to Etsy, Sommly enables artisan wineries to sell their wine direct-to-consumer and cut out the middleman.

Sommly’s marketplace will be launching in Texas early this year. To learn more visit www.sommly.com or follow @sommly.wine on Instagram.

  1. Texas Monthly: “The Texas Wine Industry Is Just Getting Started. Grape Farmers Say the End Is Near.”
  2. Mesa Vineyards Files for Bankruptcy Protection
  3. 50 Cent Buys Wine that Costs ‘more than a Rolls Royce’ at Houston’s Rodeo Uncorked
  4. Jason Moore Named New Winemaker at Los Pinos Ranch Vineyards
  5. Granbury’s Wine & Vineyard Information Center - Coming soon!

Thanks to the Texas Department of Agriculture’s Texas Wine Marketing Assistance Program for sponsoring this podcast! Learn more at www.uncorktexaswines.com.

Need lodging in Fredericksburg? Check out my home Cork + Cactus!

Cork + Cactus on AirBnB

Find Cork + Cactus and many more great rentals at Heavenly Hosts.com!

Interview with Dr. Justin Scheiner of Texas A&M

Texas A&M University Department of Viticulture & Enology

Demerits and Gold Stars

Demerit:

none!

Gold Star:

Texas Hill Country Monopoly Board Game!

Shelly’s Wine Education Website:

www.toastwinetalk.com

Thanks to Texas Wine Lover for promotional help! For the latest information on Texas wineries and vineyards, visit Texas Wine Lover

Wine & Food Foundation

I’m so happy to be part of the community of wine and food lovers at The Wine & Food Foundation! Get more information about upcoming events, the IMBIBE: The WFF Education Series, and find membership options here.

View Details

Connect with the Podcast:

Facebook: @texaswinepod

Instagram: @texaswinepod

Twitter: @texaswinepod

Email: texaswinepod@gmail.com

Voicemail: 802–585–1286

Help the Show:

Buy Shelly a Glass of Wine!

Subscribe to the newsletter to get the Texas wine crossword puzzle!

Listen and Subscribe in Apple Podcasts

Listen and Subscribe in Google Podcasts

Listen via web browser

Mentioned in this Episode

Sommly is an online marketplace where wine enthusiasts can explore wineries, join wine clubs, read reviews and buy or give the gift of Texas wine. Similar to Etsy, Sommly enables artisan wineries to sell their wine direct-to-consumer and cut out the middleman.

Sommly’s marketplace will be launching in Texas early this year. To learn more visit www.sommly.com or follow @sommly.wine on Instagram.

  1. Yoga and Texas Wine Retreat by VinoVinyasa
  2. Buena Suerte Vineyard For Sale
  3. Wine Enthusiast: These Five Wineries Are ‘Paving The Way’ for Future Winemakers
  4. Texas Monthly: What to Drink Now: The Best New Texas Beers, Wines, and Spirits
  5. Tasting Room for Nobleman Wines
  6. Want my list of the nerdiest wine experiences in the Texas Hill Country? Sign up for the Newsletter and then DM me or email me at texaswinepod@gmail.com.

Thanks to the Texas Department of Agriculture’s Texas Wine Marketing Assistance Program for sponsoring this podcast! Learn more at www.uncorktexaswines.com.

Need lodging in Fredericksburg? Check out my home Cork + Cactus!

Cork + Cactus on AirBnB

Find Cork + Cactus and many more great rentals at Heavenly Hosts.com!

Interview with Chris Hornbaker of Eden Hill Winery

Eden Hill Winery

Demerits and Gold Stars

Demerit:

none!

Gold Star:

Texas wine is aging well according to Andrew Chalk!

Find descriptions of each of the wines he’s sampled HERE

Shelly’s Wine Education Website:

www.toastwinetalk.com

Thanks to Texas Wine Lover for promotional help! For the latest information on Texas wineries and vineyards, visit Texas Wine Lover

Wine & Food Foundation

I’m so happy to be part of the community of wine and food lovers at The Wine & Food Foundation! Get more information about upcoming events, the IMBIBE: The WFF Education Series, and find membership options here.

View Details

Connect with the Podcast:
Facebook: @texaswinepod
Instagram: @texaswinepod
Twitter: @texaswinepod
Email: texaswinepod@gmail.com
Voicemail: 802–585–1286

Help the Show:
Buy Shelly a Glass of Wine!
Subscribe to the newsletter
Listen and Subscribe in Apple Podcasts
Listen and Subscribe in Google Podcasts
Listen via web browser

Mentioned in this Episode

Sommly is an online marketplace where wine enthusiasts can explore wineries, join wine clubs, read reviews and buy or give the gift of Texas wine. Similar to Etsy, Sommly enables artisan wineries to sell their wine direct-to-consumer and cut out the middleman. Sommly’s marketplace will be launching in Texas early this year. To learn more visit www.sommly.com or follow @sommly.wine on Instagram.

  1. Texas Wine Auction April 9 in Fredericksburg!
  2. Silver Spur Winery’s 2019 Aglianico Wins Best in Class at American Fine Wine Competition
  3. Texas Wineries For Sale
  4. Bénédicte Rhyne’s Seminar Journey to the Center of the Terriors
  5. Specialist of Texas Wine Course with Dr. Russ Kane
  6. Forbes.com mentions La Valentiá Carignan by Rae Wilson
  7. Travel & Leisure: This Epic Texas Road Trip Visits Underrated Vineyards and Rolling Hills Blanketed in Bluebonnets

Thanks to the Texas Department of Agriculture’s Texas Wine Marketing Assistance Program for sponsoring this podcast! Learn more at www.uncorktexaswines.com.

Need lodging in Fredericksburg? Check out my home Cork + Cactus on Heavenly Hosts.com!

On the Wine Road with Daniel Kelada

Vinovium Winery

Demerits and Gold Stars

Demerit:
Texas wine articles that must be written by bots! I’m not linking to the article I mentioned because they don’t deserve your clicks!

Gold Star:
Cassaro Winery’s True Crime & Wine Nights
Find info on Instagram @cassarowines

Shelly’s Wine Education Website: www.toastwinetalk.com

Thanks to Texas Wine Lover for promotional help! For the latest information on Texas wineries and vineyards, visit Texas Wine Lover

Wine & Food Foundation

I’m so happy to be part of the community of wine and food lovers at The Wine & Food Foundation! Get more information about upcoming events, the IMBIBE: The WFF Education Series, and find membership options here.

View Details

Connect with the Podcast:
Facebook: @texaswinepod
Instagram: @texaswinepod
Twitter: @texaswinepod
Email: texaswinepod@gmail.com
Voicemail: 802–585–1286

Help the Show:
Buy Shelly a Glass of Wine!
Subscribe to the newsletter to get the Texas wine crossword puzzle!
Listen and Subscribe in Apple Podcasts
Listen and Subscribe in Google Podcasts
Listen via web browser

Mentioned in this Episode

Sommly is an online marketplace where wine enthusiasts can explore wineries, join wine clubs, read reviews and buy or give the gift of Texas wine. Similar to Etsy, Sommly enables artisan wineries to sell their wine direct-to-consumer and cut out the middleman. Sommly’s marketplace will be launching in Texas early this year. To learn more visit www.sommly.com or follow @sommly.wine on Instagram.

  1. Texas Grape Growers’ Lawsuit Stays in Texas Court
  2. Growth in Gillespie County Wineries
  3. H-E-B’s TexFest is February 16 - March 8!
  4. Results from San Francisco Chronicle Wine Competition
  5. Dr. Russ Kane on Texas Roussanne The “Roussanne Advantage”: The White Grape for Texas
  6. Texas Hill Country Wineries Symposium

Thanks to the Texas Department of Agriculture’s Texas Wine Marketing Assistance Program for sponsoring this podcast! Learn more at www.uncorktexaswines.com.

Need lodging in Fredericksburg? Check out my home Cork + Cactus on Heavenly Hosts.com!

Interview: 20 Years of Texas Wine with Bénédicte Rhyne

Bénédicte Rhyne Website

Bénédicte’s 4-Day Winemaking Course

Demerits and Gold Stars

Demerit:
Bummer that two Austin wine bars closed recently. Don’t forget to support bars and restaurants that serve Texas wine!

Gold Star:
New Sign for Texas Hill Country. (fingers crossed)

John Rivenburgh and Phillip Hawkins for leadership in Texas Hill Country Wineries association.

Shelly’s Wine Education Website: www.toastwinetalk.com

Thanks to Texas Wine Lover for promotional help! For the latest information on Texas wineries and vineyards, visit Texas Wine Lover

Wine & Food Foundation

I’m so happy to be part of the community of wine and food lovers at The Wine & Food Foundation! Get more information about upcoming events, the IMBIBE: The WFF Education Series, and find membership options here.

View Details

Connect with the Podcast:
Facebook: @texaswinepod
Instagram: @texaswinepod
Twitter: @texaswinepod
Email: texaswinepod@gmail.com
Voicemail: 802–585–1286

Help the Show:
Buy Shelly a Glass of Wine!
Subscribe to the newsletter to get the Texas wine crossword puzzle!
Listen and Subscribe in Apple Podcasts
Listen and Subscribe in Google Podcasts
Listen via web browser

Mentioned in this Episode

Thanks to the Texas Department of Agriculture’s Texas Wine Marketing Assistance Program for sponsoring this podcast! Learn more at www.uncorktexaswines.com.

  1. Wine Enthusiast: Five Incubators Creating the Next Generation of Winemakers
  2. Los Nopales Vineyards featured in Midland Reporter Telegram: West Texas’ newest winery to open its first tasting room
  3. Casaro Winery Coming to Downtown Corsicana
  4. Homestead Winery Opens in Plano
  5. Jessica Dupuy for Texas Monthly: 10 Texas wines to toast the holidays
  6. Shelly Wilfong for State Fair of Texas: 5 Texas wines to give as holiday gifts
  7. Reggie Solomon’s Wine Casual Blog: I’m Impressed with Texas Wine, and Why You Might Be Too

Need lodging in Fredericksburg? Check out my home Cork + Cactus on Heavenly Hosts.com!

Interview: Jason Centanni of Llano Estacado Winery

Llano Estacado Winery

Demerits and Gold Stars

Demerit:
none

Gold Star:

Clever marketing by US Natural Wines.
Texas Sucks Box

Shelly’s Wine Education Website: www.toastwinetalk.com

Thanks to Texas Wine Lover for promotional help! For the latest information on Texas wineries and vineyards, visit Texas Wine Lover

Wine & Food Foundation

I’m so happy to be part of the community of wine and food lovers at The Wine & Food Foundation! Get more information about upcoming events, the IMBIBE: The WFF Education Series, and find membership options here.

View Details

Connect with the Podcast:

Facebook: @texaswinepod

Instagram: @texaswinepod

Twitter: @texaswinepod

Email: texaswinepod@gmail.com

Voicemail: 802–585–1286

Help the Show:

Buy Shelly a Glass of Wine!

Subscribe to the newsletter to get the Texas wine crossword puzzle!

Listen and Subscribe in Apple Podcasts

Listen and Subscribe in Google Podcasts

Listen via web browser

Mentioned in this Episode

Learn more about Sommly.com, a new way to discover, shop and interact with Texas wineries.

Sommly is an online marketplace where wine enthusiasts can explore wineries, join wine clubs, read reviews and buy - or give - the gift of Texas wine.

Similar to Etsy, Sommly enables artisan wineries to sell their wine direct-to-consumer and cut out the middleman.

Sommly’s marketplace will be launching in Texas early in 2022.

Visit Sommly.com to subscribe for exciting updates!

Top Texas Wine Stories of 2021

  1. Weather challenges
  2. Texas wine labeling compromise
  3. Herbicide lawsuit
  4. Growth in number of Texas wineries
  5. Supply chain challenges
  6. Winery openings and new hires
  7. 20 new episodes of This Is Texas Wine podcast!
  8. More Texas wine media
    1. Texas Winemakers series
    2. Uncorked
    3. Cactus Christmas book by Heather Renee May

Need lodging in Fredericksburg? Check out my home Cork + Cactus on Heavenly Hosts.com!

Texas is Mad for Mourvèdre

Texas Wine Lover Battle of Texas Mourvèdre (2017)

William Chris Vineyards Mourvèdre Tasting Video with Grower Interviews

Tablas Creek information about Mourvèdre

Edible Austin article

Hewitson - Home to the World’s Oldest Mourvèdre Vines (Australia)

Hardy Wallace’s Extradimensional Wine Company Yeah

Cline Cellars - Top Mourvèdre Grower in the US

Demerits and Gold Stars

Demerit:

Blasting tasting rooms for service problems rather than contacting owner/manager privately. eeekkkk!!!

Gold Star:

Dorothy & John’s article on Grape Collective: Here Are the Names and Words You Will be Hearing in 2022

Shelly’s Wine Education Website:

www.toastwinetalk.com

Thanks to Texas Wine Lover for promotional help! For the latest information on Texas wineries and vineyards, visit Texas Wine Lover

Wine & Food Foundation

I’m so happy to be part of the community of wine and food lovers at The Wine & Food Foundation! Get more information about upcoming events, the IMBIBE: The WFF Education Series, and find membership options here.

Cactus Christmas: A Texas Wine Trail Series, Book 1

View Details

Connect with the Podcast:
Facebook: @texaswinepod
Instagram: @texaswinepod
Twitter: @texaswinepod
Email: texaswinepod@gmail.com
Voicemail: 802–585–1286

Help the Show:
Buy Shelly a Glass of Wine!
Subscribe to the newsletter to get the Texas wine crossword puzzle!
Listen and Subscribe in Apple Podcasts
Listen and Subscribe in Google Podcasts
Listen via web browser

Mentioned in this Episode

Learn more about Sommly.com, a new way to discover, shop and interact with Texas wineries.

Sommly is an online marketplace where wine enthusiasts can explore wineries, join wine clubs, read reviews and buy - or give - the gift of Texas wine.

Similar to Etsy, Sommly enables artisan wineries to sell their wine direct-to-consumer and cut out the middleman.

Sommly’s marketplace will be launching in Texas early in 2022.
Visit Sommly.com to subscribe for exciting updates!

Texas Wine In the News

VinePair: The States with the Most Wineries 2021

VinePair Names CL Butaud’s 2019 Desert Willow Vineyard Mourvèdre one of the Top 50 wines of 2021

Pedernales Cellars and Spicewood Vineyards win Jefferson Cup

Texas Results from Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo

Winners from Granbury Wine Competition that was sponsored by GoTexan and the Cross Timbers Wine Trail
Lucky Vines Lucky Lass Peach
 Cattlebaron Bortex Newsom Vineyards 2019 by Casual Friday Wines
* Silver Spur 2019 Tannat Gatewood Estate Vineyard

Robin Clark for Texas Wine Lover: Slate Theory Winery Review

Thanksgiving Selections by Emma Balter of Houston Chronicle / possible paywall

Thanksgiving Selections by Eric Asimov of The New York Times / possible paywall

Need lodging in Fredericksburg? Check out my home Cork + Cactus on Heavenly Hosts.com!

Interview: Lawrence Francis of Interpreting Wine Podcast

Interpreting Wine subscribe page

FREE Podcast kit guide

Example of wine audio

Demerits and Gold Stars

Demerit:
none

Gold Star:

Avanti Restaurant’s Virginie Naigeon-Malek: Gender Equal Wine List and Texas Wine Enabler

Wine Education Segment

Bordeaux-style wines and Bordeaux-blends -
Red wines are made of Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, Merlot, Malbec, Petit Verdot and sometimes Carmenere. White wines are made of primarily Sauvignon Blanc and Semillon.

Shelly’s Wine Education Website: www.toastwinetalk.com

Thanks to Texas Wine Lover for promotional help! For the latest information on Texas wineries and vineyards, visit Texas Wine Lover

Wine & Food Foundation

I’m so happy to be part of the community of wine and food lovers at The Wine & Food Foundation! Get more information about upcoming events, the IMBIBE: The WFF Education Series, and find membership options here.

View Details

Connect with the Podcast:

Facebook: @texaswinepod

Instagram: @texaswinepod

Twitter: @texaswinepod

Email: texaswinepod@gmail.com

Voicemail: 802–585–1286

Help the Show:

Buy Shelly a Glass of Wine!

Subscribe to the newsletter to get the Texas wine crossword puzzle!

Listen and Subscribe in Apple Podcasts

Listen and Subscribe in Google Podcasts

Listen via web browser

Mentioned in this Episode

Learn more about Sommly.com, a new way to discover, shop and interact with Texas wineries.

Sommly is an online marketplace where wine enthusiasts can explore wineries, read reviews, and buy locally. Wineries will love the site because it will help them find new customers and grow their most profitable channel, direct to consumer, similar to how Etsy has helped artisans sell their goods.

Founded by an Austin, Texas wine-loving husband and wife team, Sommly is coming soon!

Visit Sommly.com to subscribe for exciting updates!

Texas Wine In the News

Wine Business Monthly names Leah Derton and James Tidwell Wine Business Leaders of 2021

NEW! Uncorked YouTube Series About Texas Wine

Texas Winemakers YouTube Series About Texas Wine

Wild World Festivals / Celebration of all things that are fermented

Decanter List of 10 Texas Wines to Try

  • William Chris Vineyards Roussanne, La Pradera Vineyard (highest score of 92)

  • Duchman Family Winery Trebbiano, Bingham Family Vineyards

  • Slate Mill Winery Viognier, Reddy Vineyards

  • CL Butaud Cease & Desist (Tempranillo/Mourvedre blend)

  • Wedding Oak’s Aglianico, Hye Top Vineyards

  • Pedernales Cellars Texas High Plains Tempranillo

  • Fall Creek Vineyards GSM, Salt Lick Vineyards

  • Becker Vineyards Texas Hill Country Reserve Petit Sirah

  • Texas Heritage Vineyards, Paka Vineyards Souzao

  • Bingham Family Vineyards Texas High Plains Dugout (Cabernet Franc, Cabernet Sauvignan, and Petit Verdot blend)

Lana Bortolot for Forbes.com: White Wines You’ll Fall For

Granbury's Winter Wine Walk - Nov 19-20

Need lodging in Fredericksburg? Check out my home Cork + Cactus on Heavenly Hosts.com!

Interview: Patrick Whitehead of Blue Ostrich Winery

Blue Ostrich Winery’s Website

Demerits and Gold Stars

Demerit:

none

Gold Star:

Uncork Texas Wine’s 3D relief map of Texas wine growing regions.

BUY MAP HERE

Shelly’s Wine Education Website:

www.toastwinetalk.com

Thanks to Texas Wine Lover for promotional help! For the latest information on Texas wineries and vineyards, visit Texas Wine Lover

Wine & Food Foundation

I’m so happy to be part of the community of wine and food lovers at The Wine & Food Foundation! Get more information about upcoming events, the IMBIBE: The WFF Education Series, and find membership options here.

View Details

Connect with the Podcast:
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Twitter: @texaswinepod
Email: texaswinepod@gmail.com
Voicemail: 802–585–1286

Help the Show:
Buy Shelly a Glass of Wine!
Subscribe to the newsletter to get the Texas wine crossword puzzle!
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Mentioned in this Episode

Texas Wine In the News

  1. Results from San Antonio Stock Show and Rodeo Wine Competition
  2. Results from Texas Wine and Grape Growers Association Lone Star International Wine Awards
  3. Reddy Vineyards Brand Ambassador Job Posting
  4. 5 Haunted Wineries Worth a Spine-Tingling Visit
  5. Rivenyates Wine Released
  6. Texas Fine Wine Bundle and November 11 Zoom Call

Need lodging in Fredericksburg? Check out my home Cork + Cactus on Heavenly Hosts.com!

Interview: Paul M and Karen Bonarrigo of Messina Hof Winery

Family, Tradition & Romance: The Messina Hof Story by Paul V. and Merrill Bonarrigo

Messina Hof’s Website
Follow Messina Hof on social media:
@messina_hof on Instagram
@Messina Hof Winery on Facebook
@messina_hof on Twitter

Demerits and Gold Stars

Demerit:
Slight delay in publishing this summer wine guide. (But kudos for McPherson’s recognition!)
10 Wines Under $20 to Pair with BBQ This Summer

Gold Star:
Cast Iron Winery’s Instagram post “BUY LOCAL: Texas Wines do not get stuck on cargo ships”

Shelly’s Wine Education Website: www.toastwinetalk.com

Thanks to Texas Wine Lover for promotional help! For the latest information on Texas wineries and vineyards, visit Texas Wine Lover

Wine & Food Foundation

I’m so happy to be part of the community of wine and food lovers at The Wine & Food Foundation! Get more information about upcoming events, the IMBIBE: The WFF Education Series, and find membership options here.

View Details

Connect with the Podcast:

Facebook: @texaswinepod

Instagram: @texaswinepod

Twitter: @texaswinepod

Email: texaswinepod@gmail.com

Voicemail: 802–585–1286

Help the Show:

Buy Shelly a Glass of Wine!

Subscribe to the newsletter to get the Texas wine crossword puzzle!

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Mentioned in this Episode

Texas Wine In the News

  1. McPherson Cellars Nominated for American Winery of the Year by Wine Enthusiast
  2. Food & Wine Magazine: 6 American Wine Vacations to Take This Season
  3. Catherine Todd for Forbes.com Texas Wines Show Adventurous Spirit and Love for Diversity
  4. Job Postings on Texas Hill Country Wineries Website
  5. Job Postings on Texas Wine & Grape Growers Association Website
  6. A novel set along Wine Road 290: Cactus Christmas: A Texas Wine Trail Series by Heather Renee May
  7. Register for TWGGA’s Grape Camp 2021

Need lodging in Fredericksburg? Check out my home Cork + Cactus on Heavenly Hosts.com!

Interview: Joey Bagnasco, GM & Winemaker at Valley Mills Vineyards

Valley Mills Vineyards’ Website

Follow Valley Mills Vineyards on social media @valleymillsvineyards

Demerits and Gold Stars

Demerit:

Out of date and incomplete information on wineries’ website and social media.

Gold Star:

Visit Lubbock’s: A Beginner’s Guide to Wine by Madi White, McPherson Cellars’ Wine Club & Service Manager

Shelly’s Wine Education Website:

www.toastwinetalk.com

Thanks to Texas Wine Lover for promotional help! For the latest information on Texas wineries and vineyards, visit Texas Wine Lover

Wine & Food Foundation

I’m so happy to be part of the community of wine and food lovers at The Wine & Food Foundation! Get more information about upcoming events, the IMBIBE: The WFF Education Series, and find membership options here.

View Details

Connect with the Podcast:
Facebook: @texaswinepod
Instagram: @texaswinepod
Twitter: @texaswinepod
Email: texaswinepod@gmail.com
Voicemail: 802–585–1286

Help the Show:
Buy Shelly a Glass of Wine!
Subscribe to the newsletter to get the Texas wine crossword puzzle!
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Mentioned in this Episode

Texas Wine In the News
This segment is sponsored by Texas Fine Wine. For more information about the October 15 Texas Fine Wine dinner, click here

  1. Texas Monthly and Uncork Texas Wine present 2021 Texas Vintners Cup (PDF)

WINNERS:
Fall Creek Vineyards 2019 Chardonnay from Certenberg Vineyards
Kerrville Hills Winery 2019 Semillon
Lewis Wines 2020 Swim Spot
McPherson Cellars 2020 The Queen Viognier
Wedding Oak Winery 2019 Roussanne
Slate Theory 2020 Cinsault Rose
Bending Branch Winery’s 2017 Tannat from Newsom Vineyards
Lost Draw Cellars 2019 Sangiovese from Alta Loma Vineyards
McPherson Cellars 2019 Carignan
Texas Heritage Vineyards 2018 Souzao
Triple N Ranch 2019 Malbec
Vinovium 2016 Sketch Tempranillo Blend

  1. Texas Hill Country Wineries October Passport Event
  2. North Texas Wine Country October Passport Event
  3. Additional Texas wine month events at www.uncorktexaswines.com
  4. Eater Austin: Welcome to Texas Wine Country
  5. FOR SALE: 14 acre property on 290
  6. FOR SALE: Profitable Texas winery with multiple locations
  7. FOR SALE: Andy Timmons’ home and estate vineyard in Lubbock County
  8. Chron.com: “A Harry Potter-themed California winery is coming to the Texas Hill Country”
  9. Washington Post: Napa wines needn’t be the benchmark. Let’s appreciate what other regions do well, too.

Wine & Food Foundation

I’m so happy to be part of the community of wine and food lovers at The Wine & Food Foundation! Get more information about upcoming events, the IMBIBE: The WFF Education Series, and find membership options here.

Need lodging in Fredericksburg? Check out my home Cork + Cactus on Heavenly Hosts.com!

Interview: Jennifer McInnis Fadel, GM of Bending Branch Winery

Bending Branch website
Follow Bending Branch on social media @bendingbranchwinery

Demerits and Gold Stars

Demerit:
The wine “12” that masquerades as a wine affiliated with Texas A&M but is actually a Spanish Rioja!

Gold Star:
William Chris Vineyards’ Honorable Mention in the Wine Spectator’s 2021 Video Contest: Growing Wine

Shelly’s Wine Education Website: www.toastwinetalk.com

Thanks to Texas Wine Lover for promotional help! For the latest information on Texas wineries and vineyards, visit Texas Wine Lover

View Details

Connect with the Podcast:

Facebook: @texaswinepod

Instagram: @texaswinepod

Twitter: @texaswinepod

Email: texaswinepod@gmail.com

Voicemail: 802–585–1286

Help the Show:

Buy Shelly a Glass of Wine!

Subscribe to the newsletter to get the downloadable Texas wine quiz. Answers included. Are you a Texas wine expert?

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Mentioned in this Episode

Texas Wine In the News

  1. USA Today’s 10Best Winners: Texas Hill Country wine region, Cabernet Grill, Cottonwood Wine Tours
  2. New Vineyard and Hops Yard at Palo Alto College in San Antonio
  3. Jessica Dupuy on Forbes.com: Wine & Dine Road Trip to San Antonio
  4. Dr. Russell Kane’s Specialist of Texas Wine Course Annoucement
  5. Texas Fine Wine Sunset Wine & Dinner Cruise:
  6. Kuhlman Cellars’ Segments on Austin’s Fox News 7

Wine & Food Foundation

I’m so happy to be part of the community of wine and food lovers at The Wine & Food Foundation! Get more information about upcoming events, the IMBIBE: The WFF Education Series, and find membership options here.

Check out Heavenly Hosts for your Fredericksburg lodging needs!

Interview: Susan Auler of Fall Creek Vineyards

Fall Creek Vineyards website

A Wine Tour of France by Frederick S. Wildman Jr

21-Day Itinerary for a Driving Tour of France - Map from book

Demerits and Gold Stars

Demerit: Writers who don’t use current statistics. Wine writers who can’t hide their indifference towards Texas wine. Editors and publications that don’t fact-check.

Gold Stars:

Rania Zayyat is a Wine Enthusiast 40 Under 40 Tastemaker of 2021!

Shelly’s Wine Education Website:

www.toastwinetalk.com

Thanks to Texas Wine Lover for promotional help! For the latest information on Texas wineries and vineyards, visit Texas Wine Lover

A Wine Tour of France

View Details

Connect with the Podcast:
Facebook: @texaswinepod
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Twitter: @texaswinepod
Email: texaswinepod@gmail.com
Voicemail: 802–585–1286

Help the Show:
Buy Shelly a Glass of Wine!
Subscribe to the newsletter to get the downloadable Texas wine quiz. Answers included. Are you a Texas wine expert?
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Mentioned in this Episode

Texas Wine In the News

  1. Brazos Valley Wineries Struggle with Heavy Rain
  2. New Flash Détente Unit at Kerrville Hills Winery
  3. FOR SALE: Red Wing Dove Winery and Vineyard
  4. Jessica Dupuy and Chris Hughes for Austin Monthly: Texas Wine Trails: Best places to sip, sleep and dine
  5. H-E-B Celebrates Texfest with 10% off Texas wine August 11–24
  6. San Antonio Express News: Peek inside Regan and Carey Meador’s beautiful home at Southold Farm + Cellars

Wine & Food Foundation

I’m so happy to be part of the community of wine and food lovers at The Wine & Food Foundation! Get more information about upcoming events, the IMBIBE: The WFF Education Series, and find membership options here.

Check out Heavenly Hosts for your Fredericksburg lodging needs!

Interview: Ernie Loeffler of Fredericksburg’s Convention & Visitors Bureau

Visit the Fredericksburg Convention & Visitor Bureau

Demerits and Gold Stars

Demerit: I handled it.

Gold Stars:
Wildfire Restaurant in Georgetown

Cabernet Grill in Fredericksburg

Educational Segment: Picpoul Blanc

Sophia MacDonald for SevenFiftyDaily: Complex Picpoul has Arrived

Texas Picpoul Blanc Mentioned:

Bending Branch Estate Picpoul blanc and Bourbon Barrel Aged Picpoul blanc
McPherson Picpoul blanc Texas High Plains
USDA Grape Variety Report
Perissos Vineyard Kubacak Vineyard Picpoul blanc
Ab Astris Picpoul blanc and Stello white blend: new wines coming soon!
The Austin Winery Picpoul Pet-Nât, a multi-vintage ripasso style wine
Southold Farm + Cellar Fortified Skin Contact Picpoul blancl

Shelly’s Wine Education Website: www.toastwinetalk.com

Thanks to Texas Wine Lover for promotional help! For the latest information on Texas wineries and vineyards, visit Texas Wine Lover

View Details

Connect with the Podcast:

Facebook: @texaswinepod

Instagram: @texaswinepod

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Voicemail: 802–585–1286

Help the Show:

Buy Shelly a Glass of Wine!

Subscribe to the newsletter to get the downloadable Texas wine quiz. Answers included. Are you a Texas wine expert?

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Mentioned in this Episode

Texas Wine In the News

  1. Texas vineyards looking to overcome weather, pandemic-related setbacks
  2. 2021: A Collector’s Item for Texas Wine Drinkers
  3. Enter wines in TWGGA’s Lone Star International Wine Competition
  4. Visit Lubbock’s Wine-Filled Weekend Itinerary
  5. Jester King, one of best breweries in Texas, now making wine and cider

Wine & Food Foundation

I’m so happy to be part of the community of wine and food lovers at The Wine & Food Foundation! Get more information about upcoming events, the IMBIBE: The WFF Education Series, and find membership options here.

Check out Heavenly Hosts for your Fredericksburg lodging needs!

Interview: Rae Wilson of Wine for the People

Follow @wineforthepeople and @dandypink on Instagram!

Demerits and Gold Stars

Demerit: Central Market North Dallas for having 5x more sake (and much more prominent placement) than Texas wine!

Gold Stars:

Texas wineries that prioritize wine education by providing guided tastings rather than a handout with wine descriptions.

Shelly’s Wine Education Website:

www.toastwinetalk.com

Thanks to Texas Wine Lover for promotional help! For the latest information on Texas wineries and vineyards, visit Texas Wine Lover

View Details

Connect with the Podcast:
Facebook: @texaswinepod
Instagram: @texaswinepod
Twitter: @texaswinepod
Email: texaswinepod@gmail.com
Voicemail: 802–585–1286

Help the Show:
Buy Shelly a Glass of Wine!
Subscribe to the newsletter to get the downloadable Texas wine quiz. Answers included. Are you a Texas wine expert?
Listen and Subscribe in Apple Podcasts
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Listen via web browser

Mentioned in this Episode

Texas Wine In the News

  1. Texas Winemakers Docuseries! WATCH HERE
  2. Amy Beth Wright for Wine Enthusiast:We Are Not Constrained by Tradition: The Budding Wine Scene in Fredericksburg, Texas
  3. Dale Robertson of the Houston Chronicle: List of Recent Articles
  4. Wine Spectator Grand Award Winners
  5. William Chris Wine Company Purchases Hoover Valley Vineyard: PRESS RELEASE
  6. Walker County vineyards rebound after losing crop after historic winter storm

Wine & Food Foundation

I’m so happy to be part of the community of wine and food lovers at The Wine & Food Foundation! Get more information about upcoming events, the IMBIBE: The WFF Education Series, and find membership options here.

Check out Heavenly Hosts for your Fredericksburg lodging needs!

Interview: Ron Yates of Spicewood Vineyards and Ron Yates Wines

Follow @ronyateswines and @spicewoodvineyards
Follow Ron @clubdeyates

Demerits and Gold Stars

Demerit: Hill Country restaurants that don’t have any Texas wine on the wine list!

Gold Star: Hill & Vine in Fredericksburg!

Shelly’s Wine Education Website: www.toastwinetalk.com

Thanks to Texas Wine Lover for promotional help! For the latest information on Texas wineries and vineyards, visit Texas Wine Lover

View Details

Connect with the Podcast:
Facebook: @texaswinepod
Instagram: @texaswinepod
Twitter: @texaswinepod
Email: texaswinepod@gmail.com
Voicemail: 802–585–1286

Help the Show:
Buy Shelly a Glass of Wine!
Subscribe to the newsletter to get the downloadable Texas wine quiz. Answers included. Are you a Texas wine expert?
Listen and Subscribe in Apple Podcasts
Listen and Subscribe in Google Podcasts
Listen via web browser

Mentioned in this Episode

Texas Wine In the News

  1. Department of Agriculture 2020 Report on Texas Grape Varieties
  2. Shelly’s Article on 2015–2019 Grape Variety Reports for Texas Wine Lover:Texas Grapevines by the Numbers: What’s Trending Up, What’s Trending Down, and What It Means for Texas Wine
  3. Robert Clay Vineyards Auction for Touriga Nacional: More Information Here
  4. Perspective Cellars welcomes a new owner
  5. Texas Wine Growers Video of Chris Brundrett talking about proposing a new AVA for Texas
  6. TTB’s AVA Manual for Petitioners
  7. Listen to Fredericksburg Texas Podcast HERE

Wine & Food Foundation

I’m so happy to be part of the community of wine and food lovers at The Wine & Food Foundation! Get more information about upcoming events, the IMBIBE: The WFF Education Series, and find membership options here.

Check out Heavenly Hosts for your Fredericksburg lodging needs!

Interview: Michael McClendon, Partner and Winemaker at Sage’s Vintage Custom Crush Winery

Sage’s Vintage on Instagram
Sage’s Vintage on Facebook

Movie discussed by Michael and Shelly on Amazon Prime Video: Our Blood is Wine

Demerits and Gold Stars

Demerit: none this time!

Gold Stars: Tasting room and winery staff!

Welcome Jackie Mancuso, vineyard manager at Southold Farm + Cellars. And 3 cheers to the kitchen for that awesome tasting board!

Thanks Dana and team at Vintner’s Hideaway!

Thanks to The Austin Winery for an enjoyable afternoon! Winemaker and partner Cooper Anderson leads a stellar team that includes winemakers Adrienne Ash (Ash Wines) and Travis Elliott (Elliott Family Wines). Loved nerding out with you!

Shelly’s Wine Education Website: www.toastwinetalk.com

Thanks to Texas Wine Lover for promotional help! For the latest information on Texas wineries and vineyards, visit Texas Wine Lover

None

View Details

Connect with the Podcast:
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Instagram: @texaswinepod
Twitter: @texaswinepod
Email: texaswinepod@gmail.com
Voicemail: 802–585–1286

Help the Show:
Buy Shelly a Glass of Wine!
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Mentioned in this Episode

Texas Wine In the News

  1. High Plains Grape Growers’ Original Petition
  2. Plaintiffs’ Legal Team Website with Fact Sheet, Links to Media Reports, and FAQs
  3. Modern Farmer: Texas Wine Grape Growers Sue Bayer-Monsanto Over Dicamba Drift Damage
  4. Progressive Farmer: New Dicamba Lawsuits
  5. Flat Creek Estate’s FOR SALE listing

Wine & Food Foundation

I’m so happy to be part of the community of wine and food lovers at The Wine & Food Foundation! Get more information about upcoming events, the IMBIBE: The WFF Education Series, and find membership options here.

Check out Heavenly Hosts for your Fredericksburg lodging needs!

Interview: Denise Clarke, Dr. Russ Kane, and Matt McGinnis

Denise Clarke PR
Russ Kane - Vintage Texas wine blog
Matt McGinnis - Big Thirst Marketing

Demerits and Gold Stars

Demerit: none this time!

Gold Stars:

Best of the Fest from GoTEXAN festival sponsored by Cross Timbers Wine Trail is Silver Spur Winery’s Rosé of Aglianico

Best of the Fest from the Wine & Food Foundation’s Toast of Texas is Llano Estacado Winery’s 2019 Roussanne from One Way Vineyard

Shelly’s Wine Education Website:www.toastwinetalk.com

Thanks to Texas Wine Lover for promotional help! For the latest information on Texas wineries and vineyards, visit Texas Wine Lover

View Details

Connect with the Podcast:

Facebook: @texaswinepod

Instagram: @texaswinepod

Twitter: @texaswinepod

Email: texaswinepod@gmail.com

Voicemail: 802–585–1286

Help the Show:

Buy Shelly a Glass of Wine!

Subscribe to the newsletter to get the downloadable Texas wine quiz. Answers included. Are you a Texas wine expert?

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Mentioned in this Episode

Texas Wine In the News

  1. WineBusiness.com: Third Time’s the Charm: Texas Legislature Passes New Wine Labeling Law
  2. New Texas Wine Book: Family, Tradition and Romance: The Messina Hof Story
  3. Way Out Wineries Summertime Cookoff 2021 (June 11–13 at 8 participating wineries
  4. Toast of Texas: A Celebration of Texas Wine (June 10 in Driftwood)
  5. Love by the Glass column on Bending Branch Frizzante Rosé of Tannat
  6. Covington Hill Country Says Howdy in Hye
  7. William Chris Wines’ New Wanderer Series Wine benefitting Feeding Texas
  8. Ben Calais Hiring Harvest Interns

Wine & Food Foundation

I’m so happy to be part of the community of wine and food lovers at The Wine & Food Foundation! Get more information about upcoming events, the IMBIBE: The WFF Education Series, and find membership options here.

Check out Heavenly Hosts for your Fredericksburg lodging needs!

Interview: Mike McHenry and Seth Urbanek of Wedding Oak Winery

www.weddingoakwinery.com

Dr. Russ Kane’s recent article on Wedding Oak Winery: Wedding Oak Winery: Seeing the Future in Red Blends and Roussanne for Texas

Demerits and Gold Stars

Demerit: State Legislature Missed Opportunity to Allow Liquor Sales on Sundays

Read more HERE and HERE

Gold Star: The two wines that won Judges’ Selection medals at the 2021 TEXSOM International Wine Awards.

Judges’ Selection for Texas Red: 2017 Spicewood Vineyards Battle of Toro

Decanter: Why is Touriga Nacional a rising star?

Judges’ Selection for Texas White: 2020 William Chris Vineyards Roussanne - La Pradera Vineyard

Full results from 2021 TEXSOM International Wine Awards can be found HERE

Shelly’s Wine Education Website:

www.toastwinetalk.com

Thanks to Texas Wine Lover for promotional help! For the latest information on Texas wineries and vineyards, visit Texas Wine Lover

View Details

Connect with the Podcast:
Facebook: @texaswinepod
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Twitter: @texaswinepod
Email: texaswinepod@gmail.com
Voicemail: 802–585–1286

Help the Show:
Buy Shelly a Glass of Wine!
Subscribe to the newsletter to get the downloadable Texas wine quiz. Answers included. Are you a Texas wine expert?
Listen and Subscribe in Apple Podcasts
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Listen via web browser

Mentioned in this Episode

Texas Wine In the News

  1. TEXSOM International Wine Awards Results!
  2. Southern Living: “The Best Summer Wines for Sipping Outside, According to Southern Sommeliers”
  3. Texas Fine Wine’s Wine and Cheese Pairing Guide
  4. Join me (virtually) at the Texas Oncology Foundation’s Uncork to Support Event on June 10
  5. Texas Fine Wine “Talk and Taste” Happy Hour June 10
  6. State Fair of Texas Blog: “Six Texas Rosés to Grab While It’s Hot”

Wine & Food Foundation

I’m so happy to be part of the community of wine and food lovers at The Wine & Food Foundation! Get more information about upcoming events, the IMBIBE: The WFF Education Series, and find membership options here.

Check out Heavenly Hosts for your Fredericksburg lodging needs!

Interview: Susan Johnson of Texas Heritage Vineyard
www.texasheritagevineyard.com

Demerits and Gold Stars

Demerit: Mother Nature! Enough with the freezing temperatures, hail and funnel clouds directly over vineyards.

Gold Star: Teenage Wasteland, the new rosé of Malbec by Reese Bolen, for her FFA Project. Way to go, Reese!

Jam out to The Cure’s song Baba O’Riley (aka Teenage Wasteland) here.

Shelly’s Wine Education Website:www.toastwinetalk.com

Thanks to Texas Wine Lover for promotional help! For the latest information on Texas wineries and vineyards, visit Texas Wine Lover

View Details

Connect with the Podcast:

Facebook: @texaswinepod

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Voicemail: 802–585–1286

Help the Show:

Buy Shelly a Glass of Wine!

Subscribe to the newsletter to get the downloadable Texas wine quiz. Answers included. Are you a Texas wine expert?

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Listen via web browser

Mentioned in this Episode

Texas Wine In the News

  1. Latest recorded freeze in Texas history
  2. Barnhill Vineyard and Winery is For Sale
  3. Wine & Food Foundation’s Toast to Texas Wine
  4. Wine Spectator: “Top Notch Restaurants Celebrating Local Wine”
  5. Kalasi Cellars' New Production Facility
  6. Food & Wine: The Five Best Wine Road Trips in the U.S.
  7. Texas Monthly: 8 Wineries that do Texas Spring Right
  8. Houston Chronicle:“Your Ultimate Guide to the Best of Texas Wine Country”

Wine & Food Foundation

I’m so happy to be joining the community of wine and food lovers at The Wine & Food Foundation! Get more information about IMBIBE: The WFF Education Series and find membership options here.

**Check out Heavenly Hosts for your Fredericksburg lodging needs! **

Interview: Randy Hester of CL Butaud and Papa Frenchy

www.clbutaud.com

Book Review

Texas Winery Dogs by Andrew Chalk

Shelly’s Wine Education Website:

www.toastwinetalk.com

Thanks to Texas Wine Lover for promotional help! For the latest information on Texas wineries and vineyards, visit Texas Wine Lover

View Details

Connect with the Podcast:

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Help the Show:

Buy Shelly a Glass of Wine!

Subscribe to the newsletter to get the downloadable Texas wine quiz. Answers included. Are you a Texas wine expert?

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Mentioned in this Episode

Texas Wine In the News

  1. Kassandra McPherson’s New Las Espinas Label
  2. Upcoming Texas Wine Festivals
  3. Texas Wine & Wildflower Journey
  4. Splashway Waterpark & Campground Wine Festival in Sheridan
  5. Granbury Wine Walk sponsored by Cross Timbers Wine Trail - General Information
  6. Granbury Wine Walk sponsored by Cross Timbers Wine Trail - General Volunteer Sign Up
  7. Granbury Wine Walk sponsored by Cross Timbers Wine Trail - TABC Certified Volunteer Sign Up
  8. The Kitchen at Southold Farm + Cellar
  9. Wine Enthusiast: ‘Let the Grapes Speak for Themselves’: Texas High Plains’ Wine Country Contains Multitudes

Wine & Food Foundation

I’m so happy to be joining the community of wine and food lovers at The Wine & Food Foundation! Get more information about IMBIBE: The WFF Education Series and find membership options here.

Check out Heavenly Hosts for your Fredericksburg lodging needs!

Interview: Jeff Cope Celebrates 10 Years of Texas Wine Lover website

Books Reviewed

Texas Wine Pioneers: How Texas upset the world wine state and continues to redefine it. by Gretchen Glasscock.

www.AdvancingTexasWine.com

Goodbye, Lark Lovejoy by Kris Clink

Want a copy of the book? I have an extra copy to gift! First person to email me gets it!

Shelly’s Wine Education Website:

www.toastwinetalk.com

Thanks to Texas Wine Lover for promotional help! For the latest information on Texas wineries and vineyards, visit Texas Wine Lover

Texas Wine Pioneers: How Texas Upset the World Wine Stage and Continues to Redefine It Inbox
Goodbye, Lark Lovejoy

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Help the Show:
Buy Shelly a Glass of Wine!
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Mentioned in this Episode

Texas Wine In the News

  1. Texas Wine Labeling: The Grape Compromise
  2. Texas Wine Growers Statement on Texas Wine Labeling
  3. 4R Ranch Winery’s New Tasting Room on the Square in McKinney
  4. Brucie Food Truck Debuts at CL Butaud / Wine for the People Tasting Room
  5. Ab Astris Chef’s Table Food & Wine Tasting. Follow Mitch and The Liquid Culture on Instgram: @the_liquid_culture
  6. 10 Mile Productions Opening in Brownwood
  7. Texas Wineries Shine in San Francisco Chronicle Wine Compeition
  8. Houston Chronicle Article includes Reddy Vineyards “The Circle” in Listing of 10 Wines You Should Be Drinking Now
  9. Forbes.com: Winter White Wines includes 2 Duchman Wines
  10. Forbes.com: Duchman and Brennan are Wines of Week
  11. VinePair: How Texas’s Historic Weather Will Affect Its Wine
  12. WineBusiness.com: Freezing Temperatures Hit ALL of Texas, Vineyard Damage May Be Extensive
  13. Texas Fine Wine Monthly Happy Hours
  14. New Podcast about Viticulture in Texas: Republic of Vitis

Wine & Food Foundation

I’m so happy to be joining the community of wine and food lovers at The Wine & Food Foundation! Get more information about IMBIBE: The WFF Education Series and find membership options here.

Check out Heavenly Hosts for your Fredericksburg lodging needs!

Interview: Barbara Lecuona of Siboney Cellars
Siboney Cellars Website

Listen to “Siboney” by Ernesto Lecuona on Spotify!

Shelly’s Wine Education Website:www.toastwinetalk.com

Thanks to Texas Wine Lover for promotional help! For the latest information on Texas wineries and vineyards, visit Texas Wine Lover

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Connect with the Podcast:

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Email: texaswinepod@gmail.com

Voicemail: 802-585-1286

Help the Show:

Buy Shelly a Glass of Wine!

Subscribe to the newsletter to get the downloadable Texas wine quiz. Answers included. Are you a Texas wine expert?

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Mentioned in this Episode

Texas Wine In the News

  1. Messina Hof’s New Harvest Green
  2. San Antonio Current: Downtown San Antonio Wine Tasting room Re:Rooted 210 Opens This Week
  3. Cheramie Wine Named to Wine Business Monthly’s Hot Brands 2020: The Wines that Defined the Year
  4. Time to submit wines to TEXSOM International Wine Awards
  5. New Dates for TWGGA Virtual Forum! Register now for Forum and Virtual Wine Tasting
  6. Wine Searcher: Wine Wholesalers Line Winemakers’ Pockets
  7. North Texas Wine Country’s Budbreak Wine Trail
  8. Texas Hill Country Wineries: Tickets on sale now for February’s Wine Lover’s Celebration
  9. Texas Fine Wine Monthly Virtual Wine Tasting
  10. New Podcast about Viticulture in Texas: Republic of Vitis

Wine & Food Foundation

I’m so happy to be joining the community of wine and food lovers at The Wine & Food Foundation! Get more information about IMBIBE: The WFF Education Series and find membership options here.

Check out Heavenly Hosts for your Fredericksburg lodging needs!

Feature: Winter Storm Whips Texas

Grapevine Cold Hardiness Graph by Pierre Helwi PhD and Justin Scheiner PhD of Texas A&M Viticulture and Enology

Sergio Cuadra of Fall Creek Vineyards: The impact of frigid weather on our vineyards

Dale Robertson for Houston Chronicle: How the Texas freeze will affect the state’s wineries and wine industry

Also quoted: social media posts from these Instgram accounts:

  • Slate Mill Wine Collective: @slatemillwinecollective
  • Chris Brundrett: @ighyetx
  • Kerrville Hills Winery: @kerrvillehillswinery
  • Maura & Dan Sharp: @sharpfamvines

Shelly’s Wine Education Website:

www.toastwinetalk.com

Thanks to Texas Wine Lover for promotional help! For the latest information on Texas wineries and vineyards, visit Texas Wine Lover

View Details

Connect with the Podcast:
Facebook: @texaswinepod
Instagram: @texaswinepod
Twitter: @texaswinepod
Email: texaswinepod@gmail.com

Help the Show:
Buy Shelly a Glass of Wine!
Subscribe to the newsletter to get the downloadable Texas wine quiz. Answers included. Are you a Texas wine expert?
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Mentioned in this Episode

Texas Wine In the News

  1. Travel & Leisure magazine: The 50 Top Places to Travel in 2021
  2. Wine Industry Advisor: Rania Zayyat is one of 2021’s Most Inspiring
  3. Lift Collective (formerly Wonder Women of Wine) announces Virtual Conference
  4. Messina Hof Unveils Augmented Reality Wine Labels
  5. Michelle Williams for WineBusinss.com: Off-Target Herbicide Drift Threatens Vineyards Across U.S.
  6. Time to submit wines to TEXSOM International Wine Awards
  7. Register now for TWGGA Virtual Forum
  8. New Wine Bottle Sizes
  9. Alcohol to Go may be here to stay
  10. Texas Hill Country Wineries: Tickets on sale now for February’s Wine Lover’s Celebration

Wine & Food Foundation

I’m so happy to be joining the community of wine and food lovers at The Wine & Food Foundation! Get more information about IMBIBE: The WFF Education Series and find membership options here.

All About Tannat
13 Facts about Tannat:

  1. Tannat is one of the most tannic, robust and deeply colored wines. It has the highest polyphenols (antioxidants) of all red wines. That sounds to me like Tannat is the healthiest red wine you can drink.
  2. Tannat is native to Southwest France. There’s also a bit grown in Italy. Tannat is widely grown in Uruguay. In fact, it’s the signature grape of Uruguay. Tannat from Uruguay is often more lush, with more elegant tannins than those from France.
  3. In the USA, you can also find Tannat in California (especially Lodi and Paso Robles), in Virginia and several other states.
  4. Tannat was recognized in the US as a wine grape for varietal bottling for the first time in 2002. Tablas Creek winery petitioned the US Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco and Firearms to recognize tannat as an approved wine grape. Tablas Creek uses it as both a blending grape and as a single varietal bottling.
  5. In the vineyard, Tannat is said to be one of the easiest varieties to grow. The berries have thick skins which makes it somewhat disease resistant. The biggest challenge is that the stems are thick and cling to the berries tightly which makes de-stemming difficult.
  6. In Uruguay, Tannat is commonly paired with their popular local asados, wood fired BBQs using high quality beef. Other high fat dishes are also good matches.
  7. Common flavors in tannat are various black fruits like black currant and black cherry, chocolate, espresso, and smoke.
  8. Tannat can benefit from age, so don’t be afraid to lay it down for awhile. Wine Folly says the drinking window is from 5–25 years.
  9. Texas producers that have recently won medals for Tannat include Ab Astris, Augusta Vin, Rustic Spur, Bending Branch, Cicada Cellars, Longhorn Cellars, and of course Kerrville Hills Winery.
  10. In addition to making dry red wines, Tannat can be used to produce rosé and even sparkling rose. One of my favorites is a sparkling rose of Tannat by Bending Branch.
  11. Tannat can even be part of a blend. Cicada Cellars has won awards with its blend of 50% Tannat and 50% Cabernet Sauvignon blend. This is common in France. Cabernet Sauvignon is often blended with Tannat to open it up some and make it more approachable.
  12. In Texas, Tannat grows in the Texas High Plains and in the Texas Hill Country. Texas Wine Lover website lists 37 different vineyards that include Tannat plantings. If you’ve stood in the William Chris Vineyards tasting room, you’ve probably seen Tannat from their Hye Estate growing right in front of you.
  13. The last report on Texas vineyards (2019) reported that Tannat is the #10 red grape in terms of planted acreage. There are about 120 bearing acres of Tannat across the state, and production off those acres was about 350 tons. Tannat is showing significant growth in the state. Between 2015 and 2019, about 92 acres of new Tannat started bearing fruit.

Sources: Wine Folly Magnum Edition, Karen MacNeil’s The Wine Bible, Tablas Creek Website, winery websites, 2019 USDA Texas Wine Grape Varieties.

Interview with John Rivenburgh

John is owner and winemaker at Kerrville Hills Winery and president of Texas Hill Country Wineries.

Shelly’s Wine Education Website:www.toastwinetalk.com

Thanks to Texas Wine Lover for promotional help! For the latest information on Texas wineries and vineyards, visit Texas Wine Lover

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Mentioned in this Episode

Texas Wine In the News

  1. Specialist of Texas Wine Certification Class offered by The Texas Wine School
  2. William Chris “Growing Wine” Video
  3. VinePair Picks Perspective Cellars’ Wine Club
  4. Duchman Roussanne is one of Bloomberg’s 50 Best Wines Under $50
  5. Brennan Dry Rosé is one of Bloomberg’s choices for Thanksgiving
  6. Texas Hill Country Wineries: Tickets on sale now for February’s Wine Lover’s Celebration
  7. San Francisco Chronicle (paywall): Pandemic drinking did not save the wine industry’s slowing sales, new data shows
  8. Chris Grider of Kissing Tree Winery in the news for storming US Capitol:
    Interview
    Follow-up Story

Wine & Food Foundation

I’m so happy to be joining the community of wine and food lovers at The Wine & Food Foundation! Get more information about IMBIBE: The WFF Education Series and find membership options here.

2021 Predictions, Goals & Dreams for the Texas Wine Industry

Texas Fine Wine Predictions

My predictions:

  1. No changes to Texas wine labeling laws.

  2. Slowdown in new wineries breaking ground. Sadly, some wineries may not survive.

  3. Improved winery websites and e-commerce. Please include full winemaking details, information about the vintage, and tasting notes.

  4. Member benefits get creative since gatherings aren’t as large as before.

  5. A new AVA for Texas?

  6. Perfect weather in Texas for a stellar harvest!

Thanks to the Texas wine rockstars who contributed to this episode!

Ab Astris Winery

Bull Lion Ranch Winery

Chateau Wright

Cross Timbers Wine Trail

Sharp Family Vineyards

Triple N Ranch Winery

Wine Spectator Predictions for 2021

Texas Fine Wine VR Videos

Shelly’s Wine Education Website: www.toastwinetalk.com

Thanks to Texas Wine Lover for promotional help. For the latest information on Texas wineries and vineyards, visit Texas Wine Lover!

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Mentioned in this Episode

Texas Wine In the News

  1. VinePair names Southold’s All Things Go #8 best wine of 2020
  2. CL Butaud & Wine for the People Tasting Room Opens
  3. 4.0 Cellars Relaunches as Texas Wine Collective
  4. Houston Rodeo Uncorked Wine Competition Results
  5. San Francisco International Wine Competition Results
  6. Wine Industry Advisor: Seasoned Winemaker Brings Expertise to a New Wine Incubator at Kerrville Hills Winery
  7. Texas Monthly: 12 Texas Wines for the Holiday Season
  8. Fredericksburg Standard Radio-Post 2020 Reader’s Choice Awards

Top Texas News Stories of 2020

  1. Texas Wineries connect with customers via virtual tasting events.
  2. Increased direct-to-consumer shipping and curbside pickups
  3. Special release wine benefits restaurant workers
  4. Formation of a new Texas Winery PAC: Save Texas Wineries
  5. Travel to Texas wineries is strong, particularly in the Texas Hill Country
  6. 2020 Vintage is Light in Texas High Plains Due to Late 2019 Freeze. Big focus on Texas Hill Country fruit
  7. Texas wineries appear frequently in national news stories. State media also covers Texas wineries more than in past years.
  8. New wines and wine brands hit the market
  9. New wineries open
  10. New tasting rooms open
  11. New vineyard acreage planted
  12. New winemakers for several wineries
  13. Jason Hisaw named Texas Wine Ambassador
  14. New wine bars focusing on Texas wine
  15. New building projects for several wineries
  16. State Fair of Texas Blue Ribbon Selections
  17. New book by Jessica Dupuy focuses on wines of Texas, Arizona, Colorado and New Mexico: Wines of Southwest USA
  18. Best Collaboration: Texas Fine Wine and Texas Pecan Board
  19. New Texas wine magazine by Cross Timbers Wine Trail. Listen to Chuck Tordiglione talk about the magazine in a previous episode
  20. New Texas wine trail: Sam Houston Wine Trail
  21. Wine Enthusiast: Chris Brundrett Named to 40 Under 40 List
  22. William Chris Vineyards and Lost Draw Cellars Merge
  23. Texas continues to produce exceptionally good wine!

Interview with Chris Brundrett and Andrew Sides of William Chris Wine Company
www.williamchrisvineyards.com
www.lostdrawcellars
www.thegrowerproject.com
www.yeswecanwine.com

www.realtexaswine.org

Instagram Links:
@williamchrisvineyards
@lostdrawcellars
@yeswecanwine
@thegrowerproject
--collaborative effort with Rae Wilson of @wineforthepeople

Chris: @ighyetx
Andrew: @mr_drewbaby

Shelly’s Wine Education Website: _www.toastwinetalk.com

Thanks to Texas Wine Lover for promotional help. For the latest information on Texas wineries and vineyards, visit Texas Wine Lover!

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Help the Show:
Buy Shelly a Glass of Wine!
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Mentioned in this Episode

Texas Wine In the News

  1. 2nd annual North Texas Wine Country Blind Wine Tasting Competition
  2. Vinepair: Texas Tempranillo Is Making Its Name in the State and Beyond
  3. Texas Fine Wine: Holiday Celebration Pack - 5 wines
  4. Offer: State Fair of Texas - Case of Blue Ribbon Selection Texas Wines
  5. Offer: 6-pack of Texas Wine
  6. Offer: 3-pack of Texas Wine
  7. Shelly’s article for the State Fair of Texas: SET THE HOLIDAY TABLE WITH TEXAS WINES

Interview with David Kuhlken and Dr. Julie Kuhlken of Pedernales Cellars
www.pedernalescellars.com
Follow Pedernales cellars on Instagram (@pedernalescellars)!

What I’m Drinking

2018 Pedernales Cellars Viognier Reserve

Shelly’s Wine Education Website:www.toastwinetalk.com

Thanks to Texas Wine Lover for promotional help. For the latest information on Texas wineries and vineyards, visit Texas Wine Lover!

View Details

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Help the Show:

Buy Shelly a Glass of Wine!

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Mentioned in this Episode

Texas Wine In the News

  1. TexasMonthly.com: Five Things You Didn’t Know About Texas Wine
  2. TheBuyer.net: Why winemaking in Southwest USA is the new frontier
  3. Forbes.com: 100% Texas Wine List Makes The Cabernet Grill A Unique Destination
  4. Culture Map Dallas: New chef-driven restaurant in West Texas is sure to be worth the trek
  5. H-E-B & Houston Chronicle Wine Tasting November 19 Spirit of Texas 175th Anniversary
  6. Bending Branch Named Best in Herd Winery at San Antonio Stock Show and Rodeo Wine Competition
  7. New York Times: The Wine World’s Most Elite Circle Has a Sexual Harassment Problem
  8. DMagazine.com: Quiz: Which Kind of Texas Hill Country Wine Are You?

Interview with Daniel Pate of Apical Texas

www.apicaltexas.com

Daniel's txwinelover.com profile

Follow Daniel on Instagram (@apicaltexas) for education on viticulture!

What I’m Drinking

2018 Dead Flowers Rosé by Texoir

Shelly’s Wine Education Website:

www.toastwinetalk.com

Thanks to Texas Wine Lover for promotional help. For the latest information on Texas wineries and vineyards, visit Texas Wine Lover!

CODE: 86K2J5qlSwRRsKSExe1n

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Mentioned in this Episode

Texas Wine In the News

  1. Txwinelover.com: William Chris Vineyards and Lost Draw Cellars Merger
  2. Houstoniamag: New Houston Restaurant Boasts (!) Wine List with 10% Texas Wine
  3. San Antonio Current: "ReRooted 210, San Antonio’s first urban winery, wants to make tastings fun and accessible"
  4. Forbes.com "Innovation Leads The Way In The Dynamic Texas Wine Industry" aka Michelle Williams' Red Wine Texas Wine Article
  5. Forbes.com "Around The World With Texas White Wine" aka Michelle Williams' White Wine Texas Wine Article
  6. Txwinelover.com: San Antonio Stock Show and Rodeo Wine Competition Results

Interview with Jessica Dupuy
Go to www.jessicadupuy.com to buy the new book The Wines of Southwest U.S.A: A Guide to New Mexico, Texas, Arizona, and Colorado. Same price as the big box stores, and you get a higher quality copy and get it signed! Makes a great gift!
Follow Jessica on Instagram at jessicandupuy and join her IG Lives!

Wine and the White House: A History by Frederick J Ryan Jr.
To order, CLICK HERE.

What I'm Drinking

2017 Llano Winery 1836 Red
This wine is only available in restaurants.

It's not too lat to purchase the State Fair of Texas Blue Ribbon Wine Selections case!
Link to purchase

Shelly's Wine Education Website:
www.toastwinetalk.com

Thanks to Texas Wine Lover for promotional help. For the latest information on Texas wineries and vineyards, visit Texas Wine Lover!

View Details

Episode Summary:

Connect with the Podcast:
Facebook: @texaswinepod
Instagram: @texaswinepod
Twitter: @texaswinepod
Email: texaswinepod@gmail.com

Help the Show:
Buy Shelly a Glass of Wine!
Subscribe to the newsletter to get the downloadable Texas wine quiz. Answers included. Are you a Texas wine expert?
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Mentioned in this Episode

Texas Wine In the News

  1. Patrick Whitehead Named Wine Industry Leader of 2020 by Wine Business Monthly
  2. Kalasi Cellars Press from Dallas Morning News “Texas Grape Growers wiwth Dallas Roots Open Fredericksburg Winery”
  3. Slate Mill Wine Collective and Couple in the Kitchen Charity Wines
  4. Michael McClendon Named Rising Black Voice in Wine by Wine & Spirits Magazine
  5. Forbes.com article by Michelle Williams “Around the World with Texas White Wine”
  6. State Fair of Texas Blue Ribbon Wine Selections / Link to purchase
  7. Shelly’s Texas Wine Lover article “The State Fair of Texas Offers a Case of Blue Ribbon Texas Wine: Order Now and Create a DIY Wine Garden at Home”
  8. Sorry, the “Mourvedre on the Move” article requires a subscription to Wine Enthusiast.

October is Texas Wine Month!
History:
Austin Chronicle 10/2006 “Taking A Look at Texas Wine Month”
Austin Chronicle 10/1999“Uncorking Texas”

High Plains Journal 2002 “October is Texas Wine Month”

Fun Things to Do This Month:
1. Texas Hill Country Wineries Passport Event in the Hill Country
2. North Texas Wine Country October Wine Trail Event
3. October 21: A Toast to Texas Pecans: A Virtual Texas Pecan and Wine Tasting
4. Wine on the Dime’s YouTube Playlist of Texas Winery Visits
5. Franklin Vines mentioned Cellar Rat Tours
6. October 15: Wine & Food Foundation of Texas Event with Denise Clarke: Celebrate Texas Wine Month, Y’all!
7. Borat 2 movie trailer with cameo appearance by Sid Miller
8. October 28 & 29: Lone Star International Wine Competition Viewing
9. October 14 & 21: State Fair Blue Ribbon Virtual Tastings. Sign up at bottom of this webpage
10. October 17: Heroic Hye Wine Hunt
11. Multiple dates: Spooky Cellar Tours at Messina Hof in Bryan
12. October 30: Date Night Murder Mystery Dinner at Rising Sun Vineyard in McDade
13. October 31: Fall Feast Vintner’s Dinner @ Pedernales Cellars
14. October 31: Young Frankenstein Movie Screening at Torr Na Lochs in Burnet
15. William Chris Vineyards Artist Blend Call for Submissions
16. Ongoing: Wine Dinners & Tastings at Bryan’s on 290 in Johnson City
17. Multiple dates: Jessica Dupuy’s Instagram Live talks to celebrate her new book “The Wines of Southwest USA”
17. Don’t forget the hashtag #TexasWineMonth!!

What I’m Drinking

2019 Cheramie Wine Riesling
Follow Cheramie on Instagram: @cheramiewine
and Facebook: Cheramie Wine

Find out more about where Riesling ranks among Texas white wines in this article I wrote for Texas Wine Lover.

Shelly’s Wine Education Website:www.toastwinetalk.com

Thanks to Texas Wine Lover for promotional help. For the latest information on Texas wineries and vineyards, visit Texas Wine Lover!

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Mentioned in this Episode

Texas Wine In the News

  1. D Magazine: "Texas Wine Country Road Trip"
  2. Edible Austin: "The Road to Texas Wine Lovers’ Hearts"
  3. Save Texas Wineries
  4. Central Market Texas Wine Sale - Scroll down to see possible wine selections. Will vary by store.
  5. State Fair of Texas Blue Ribbon Wine Selections / Link to purchase
  6. Shelly's Texas Wine Lover article: "The State Fair of Texas Offers a Case of Blue Ribbon Texas Wine: Order Now and Create a DIY Wine Garden at Home"

Jason Hisaw: Texas Wine Ambassador
Interview: Jason Hisaw

  1. Jason's 6/2020 Dallas Morning News BBQ Article "6 Texas wines to drink with barbecue"
  2. 2020 TDA appointment as Texas wine ambassador
  3. 2019 Texas Wine Lover Profile

Also mentioned in the interview:
Tootsie at Snow's BBQ
Chef's Table BBQ on Netflix
Lone Star International Wine Competition

Deep Dive: Vermentino

Michelle Williams on Forbes.com: "Six Reasons To Fall In Love With Vermentino"

Wine Folly: Vermentino

Lauren Mowery of Wine Enthusiast: "Fan of Chardonnay and Pinot Grigio? It’s Time to Give Vermentino a Try"

Pedernales Vermentino

The Austin Winery Vermentino

What I'm Drinking

Duchman Family Winery Vermentino

Shelly's Wine Education Website:
www.toastwinetalk.com

Thanks to Texas Wine Lover for promotional help. For the latest information on Texas wineries and vineyards, visit Texas Wine Lover!

View Details

Connect with the Podcast:
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Buy Shelly a Glass of Wine!
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Mentioned in this Episode

Texas Wine In the News

  1. "The most scenic Southern wineries worthy of a getaway"
  2. "Anthropology professor finds evidence of wine, caffeine in 500-year-old pottery"
  3. Texas on the Rhone Cruise on AmaWaterways
  4. "Texas wineries, distilleries say they won't survive coronavirus pandemic without help"
  5. Texas Wine Lover on List of Top 101 Wine Writers in 2020
  6. My notable article that appeared on Texas Wine Lover in March. "Texas Wineries Get Creative to Meet Coronavirus Challenges"

Texas Wine Trails & Chuck Tordiglione's Big Plans
Interview:
Chuck Tordiglione
Bull Lion Ranch & Vineyard
Cross Timbers Wine Trail

Others mentioned in the main segment:
Texas HIll Country Wineries
North Texas Wine Country
Sam Houston Wine Trail
Texas Way Out Wineries
The best listing of Texas wine trails: Texas Wine Lover

People in Wine: Tony Coturri

Coturri Winery

La Cruz de Comal Wines

"40 Harvests On, Natural Winemaker Tony Coturri Talks About Regenerative Farming"

"Tony Coturri Of Coturri Winery: The Sprudge Wine Interview"

What I'm Drinking

2017 Brennan Vineyards Cabernet Sauvignon

Shelly's Wine Education Website:
www.toastwinetalk.com

For the latest information on Texas wineries and vineyards, visit Texas Wine Lover!

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Subscribe to the newsletter to get the downloadable guide to my top 10 Texas wine experiences during quarantine.

Mentioned in this Episode

Texas Wine In the News

  1. Chris Brundrett Named a Wine Enthusiast 40 Under 40 Tastemaker for 2020! Link to article here
  2. "Fan of Chardonnay and Pinot Grigio? It’s Time to Give Vermentino a Try"
  3. 10Best.com Wine Regions
  4. 10Best.com Wine Country Hotel

Save Texas Wineries
Interview:
Roxanne Myers, President
Lost Oak Winery

Save Texas Wineries PAC
Texas Craft Spirits PAC
Trey Blocker

What I'm Drinking

2019 C.L. Butaud Ramato

"Ramato, the Unexpected Rosé Alternative" from Wine Enthusiast

"What is Ramato wine? Ask Decanter." (Possible paywall)

"Natural wine in Texas? A wild, fluid concept still" from Austin360

Shelly's Wine Education Website:
www.toastwinetalk.com

For the latest information on Texas wineries and vineyards, visit Texas Wine Lover!

View Details

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Mentioned in this Episode

Texas Wine In the News

  1. Save Texas Wineries: New PAC Wants to Re-open Tasting Rooms ASAP
  2. CBS Austin Segment with San Antonio Winery
  3. Kiepersol’s Fizzy Vit Gold Medal in Canned Wine Competition
  4. “Science whiz-turned-winemaker launches award-winning custom crush facility in East Texas”
  5. Siboney Cellars’ New Location
  6. Triple N Ranch Winery Opens in Cedar Creek Lake Area

Shelly’s Wine Education Website: www.toastwinetalk.com

Shelly Harvested Souzāo at Ab Astris Winery!

Understanding Wine Distribution in Texas
Interviews:
Derek Rogers
Associate Director of Sales
Serendipity Wines

Eric Sigmund
Chief Operating Officer
Reddy Vineyards

What I’m Drinking

2019 William Chris Vineyards Wanderer Series Relief Blend Red Wine

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Mentioned in this Episode

Texas Wine In the News

  1. Kerrville Hills Harvest Investor Opportunity For more information call 830.895.4233 or email info@khwco-op.com.
    Contact: John Rivenburgh
  2. "2020 Finger Lakes International Wine Competition – Texas Results"
  3. "Raise your glass to these 10 Dallas restaurants pouring fine wine"
  4. Pyramid Room Dallas Wine List with Texas Wine Education
  5. "UH football legend Case Keenum buys into local winery"
  6. Texas Wine Women Share the Mic to Amplify the Voices of Black Business Women Throughout Texas

Harvest Update from Texas Fine Wine

Texas Wine in Grapevine, Texas
I mentioned on the last episode that coronavirus has forced the cancellation of the 34th annual Grapefest, the largest wine festival in the Southwest. It was scheduled to take place along the historic Main Street in Grapevine September 17-20th. 45 Texas wineries would have been on hand for the festival that attracts more than 260,000 visitors. You can just imagine the economic impact that this cancellation has on the businesses that usually participate.

Although I just live about 20 miles away to Grapevine, I go wine tasting in the Texas Hill Country more frequently than I go to Grapevine. I suspect I’m not the only one.I thought the cancellation of GrapeFest was a good reason to take a fresh look the Texas wine culture in Grapevine. After all, Grapevine’s Convention and Visitors Bureau says Grapevine has been a hub for wineries and wine culture for 25 years.

I found some bright spots that I’m excited to share with you. And I’ve got a feeling Grapevine might be a place to watch in the years to come.

Although its population is only 54,000 residents, Grapevine lives like a bigger city. Grapevine’s proximity to DFW airport, 21 hotels and 11,000 hotels rooms makes Grapevine a popular spot for conventions. Tourism is huge here. There are plenty of activities for families including Nash Farm, SEA LIFE Grapevine, and Great Wolf Lodge.

There’s a lot of development on the horizon for Grapevine. This summer, a huge public-private partnership will be completed downtown. It includes a commuter rail line that will connect to DFW airport and downtown Fort Worth. On September 3, the Hotel Vin will open its doors. That’s a 120-bed boutique hotel that’s part of the Marriott family. It will brings with it new dining options including a signature fine dining restaurant and a food hall that features 7 kitchens and 2 bars.

Hotel Vin

So big things are happening in Grapevine, but where does the Texas wine fit in? Do they even grow grapes in Grapevine? Surely with a name like Grapevine, there’s wine to be had! Well indeed there is!

The town got its name from the wild mustang grapes that grew rampant in the area. Now the main vineyard of note is the 10-acre vineyard owned by Delaney Vineyards. It was planted in 1993 to Cynthiana grapes, otherwise known as Norton, the hybrid variety that’s the cornerstone of the Missouri wine industry. I visited last week, and I’ll tell you more about that shortly.

Did you know that Grapevine is the home of the Texas Wine and Grape Growers Association?

“The city of Grapevine and the Convention and Visitor’s Bureau have always been extremely supportive of the Texas wine industry AND the Texas Wine and Grape Growers Association.

There are several times throughout the year in which they fundraise for us and support the industry with non-monetary resources.

Grapefest is the largest purchaser and reseller of Texas wine! There are some synergies that occur because our office is in the same market as that event.” - TWGGA Executive Director Dacota Haselwood

Texas Wine & Grape Growers Association

While you're on the TWGGA website, submit your wines for entry in the Lone Star International Wine Competition. It will take place in late October in Grapevine.

Today I’m going to give you a couple of your best bests for visiting Grapevine. Attending a festival may be what has brought you to Grapevine before, but Grapevine also has winery tasting rooms, restaurants with Texas wines on the lists, and a wine shop a solid Texas wine selection. I’ll touch on your best bests in each of these categories and comment on where Grapevine gets it right and how Grapevine can improve to convert even more Texas wine lovers.

Grapevine is all about wine festivals. GrapeFest is the largest, but it’s just one of many. In fact, there’s another big wine festival coming up in October. It is currently still on the calendar. It’s the 28th annual New Vintage Wine & Gallery Trail & Blessing of the Vines. It was originally in April and has been pushed back.

Find out more here: New Vintage Wine & Gallery Trail

Tasting Rooms:
FACT: The first winery tasting room to open up in Grapevine was La Buena Vida Vineyards in 1995. Delaney Vineyards followed in 1996.

Once you’re able to visit tasting rooms again, you’ll be happy to know that my top two recommendations in Grapevine are both on Main Street. While you’re downtown, be sure to check out the bronze grapevine sculptures outside the Convention and Visitors Bureau. This public art display shows the life cycle of a grapevine and was purchased with donations secured by the Grapevine Wine Pouring Society.

My first tasting room recommendation is Bingham Family Vineyards. Bingham is first and foremost a farming family. They’re a multi-generational family that’s all about 100% Texas grown and produced estate wines from the Texas High Plains. They’ve got a tasting room in Fredericksburg and one in Meadow in addition to the one in Grapevine. You won’t find their wines in distribution because they barely make enough wine to keep their own wine club satisfied. If you want Bingham made wines, get them through the tasting rooms or online.

The Binghams own or manage around 250 acres of grapes in the Texas High Plains, and they’ve been growing grapes since 2003. They also grow grapes for over 20 other Texas wineries. In addition to grapes, the Binghams grow around 2000 acres of other organic crops including cotton and peanuts. The fact that they’re an estate winery is pretty unique among Texas wineries. They decided to start making some of their own wines in 2014 and opened the Grapevine tasting room in 2015. Production is approximately 5000 cases.

If you live within 10 miles of the tasting room, they’ll deliver your order and waive the $10 fee if you spend over $50.

Betty Bingham keeps an active blog with great recipes, wine pairings, and updates from the farm. I found an entry from back in May that gives the Bingham family’s impressions on the 2020 harvest. Betty writes, “It doesn’t look good for the 2020 grape crop at Bingham Family Vineyards. We are estimating 170 tons rather than our original expectation of 900 tons.” She has photos of several different varieties and how they fared. She writes, “they show that we are concerned not only this year’s crop, but also for the vines themselves. We will be spending extra time training many of the vines to prepare for fruit next year or in some blocks for fruit two years from now. On the whole it appears that the older the vines, the less fruit. The younger vines, except for some of those just planted last year, are actually faring better.”

Bingham Family Vineyard

Next, just down the street you’ll find Messina Hof - Grapevine. This is one of Messina Hof’s three locations. The others are in Bryan/College Station and Fredericksburg. The fourth location is under development in the greater Houston area.

Messina Hof was the 4th winery established in TX (1977) by the Bonarrigio family. It’s is a large Texas winery with about 84,000 cases produced. You’ll find the wines in wide distribution. They’ve got over 70 wines in distribution to 40 states. They work with over 20 growers statewide to produce their Texas wines.

Messina Hof Opened the Grapevine location in 2014 in the old Wallis Hotel which was built in 1891. At Messina Hof - Grapevine you’ll find multiple tasting areas, and many, many styles of wine. In fact, Messina Hof makes wines from over 25 grape varieties. There’s something for everyone here: wine on tap, wine in cans, wines by the glass, shopping, premium flights of wines that are only available at this location and more. They host lots of events too. If you’re looking for something special for a group or special event, there’s an opportunity for a private seated tasting that food.

Messina Hof - Grapevine

Umbra sells Texas wine and in fact grows grapes at the sister property in Springtown. The Grapevine tasting room has made some changes to better meet the demands of current business environment. Right now Umbra is focused on a lot of gourmet food items, gift baskets, wine glasses and prepared food to go. There’s not as much seating for tastings as there used to be.

If you stop in, be sure to check out the Estrella de Vida, named for the late Dr Bobby Smith, the previous owner of La Buena Vida Vineyards, The owners of Umbra bought La Buena Vida from Dr. Smith, and he was their mentor until his death earlier this year. The wine is a Texas orange muscat, and it has a photo of Dr. Bobby on the label. The back label pays tribute to their mentor and friend and invites us to join in celebrating his life with the commemorative wine.

NOTE: Just after this recording was complete, Umbra Winery announced the consolidation of its operations to its vineyard in Springtown. The Umbra tasting room in Grapevine is closing.

Umbra Winery

Cross Timbers Winery is about half a mile off Main Street. It has a lovely outdoor patio space where you’ll often find live music. A two-story barn can be rented for parties. They only make a few hundred cases of wine, just enough to use for events at the barn and to pour in the tasting room and at the various events that happen throughout the year in Grapevine. They don’t ship wine or operate a wine club. Kim McPherson makes the wine.

Grapevine’s sister city is Parras de la Fuente, Mexico. That’s the site of Casa Madero, the oldest winery in the Americans. The late founder of Cross Timbers was friends with the folks at Casa Madero. That’s why you can taste 4 Casa Madero wines at Cross Timbers. If you go, plan to sit outside on a nice day when there’s live music. I haven’t tasted the wine, but the outdoor space could definitely be fun.

Cross Timbers Winery

Jerry Delaney owns the 10 acre vineyard and winery in Grapevine, and also a 115 acre vineyard in Lamesa which is in the Texas High Plains AVA. The winery in Grapevine is an 8,000 square foot French chateau inspired building. It was completed in 1996, and the first bottling production was in the summer of 1997. The vineyard of Norton grapes was planted in 1993.

Delaney calls the wine produced from the Grapevine vineyard Cynthiana which is a synonym for Norton according to UC Davis Grape Registry. Norton is a hybrid variety, and it’s also the cornerstone of the Missouri wine industry. Grapevine is outside of any of the 8 AVAs in Texas, so this wine is just labeled Texas. The Texoma AVA starts well north of Grapevine.

Delaney Vineyards

Restaurants:
When you’re ready for a meal, perhaps you want to try a nearby restaurant where you can try other Texas wines.

Sloan & Williams is a winery but also has a large tapas menu. Stop in there for lunch and the Texas tasting. They’ve got 5 Texas wines that they bottle under their own Sloan and Williams label from grapes grown on the Texas High Plains. Try the Texas wine flight!

Sloan & Williams Winery

If you’re craving seafood, Big Fish Seafood Grill & Bar has several Texas wines on the menu both by the bottle and by the glass.

Big Fish Seafood Grill & Bar

The couple that owns Main Street Bakery, Chez Fabien, and the newer Piaf Kitchen and Wine Bar have done a good job at putting Texas wines on those wines lists. The Mediterranean themed Piaf has the most Texas wines of any restaurants in Grapevine according to my research. If you know of others that have more, please let me know! Piaf has 4 Texas wines by the glass and 6 by the bottles. They’re from the Texas wine producers that you’d expect to see: Messina Hof, McPherson, and Duchman. Piaf has a good looking upstairs patio and a wine room for private events.

Piaf Kitchen

The new Hotel Vin will also bring a new fine dining option to Grapevine. It’s called Bacchus Kitchen and Bar. Of course Bacchus is the Roman God of wine. The big question is, will they have Texas wine on their list? The website talks more about handcrafted cocktails and craft beer, but I’m still hopeful. I hope they’ll take a page from the Pyramid Room playbook and have not just a nice selection of Texas wines, but dedicate a little space to some Texas wine education too. I bet a lot of out of town business travelers who will likely dine here don’t even know Texas grows grapes but would be interested in trying Texas wine.

Hotel Vin's Bacchus Kitchen

Wine Shop:
There’s an independent Wine shop on Main Street that’s worth a mention too. Off the Vine has been around for 27 years and has featured Texas wines with in store tastings. Owner Holly Donnelly has definitely seen a lot of changes in the Texas wine industry in her long tenure on Main Street. She currently features wines from Lost Draw, Reddy Vineyards, Kuhlman Cellars and several other top Texas producers. Pick up something from there and head to one of Grapevine’s BYOB spots. The one I’ve visited and loved is Café Italia. Holly also suggests Amore’s or Mason & Dixie.

Off the Vine

Things to Do:
A lot of the things to do in Grapevine center around wine. One is the Grapevine Vintage Railroad. The railroad runs several special events each year that are adults only and focus on wine. There are Jazz Wine Trains, Halloween Wine Trains and more. The Grapevine tasting rooms supply the wine. Members of the Grapevine Wine Pouring Society pour the wine. This society meets regularly for wine education and fellowship. They’re wine ambassadors for the town of Grapevine and some of the friendliest folks you will meet. I enjoyed being a guest at their meeting in 2017 when I wrote an article about the wine pouring society for Texas Wine Lover website.

My article on the Grapevine Wine Pouring Society for Texas Wine Lover

Passengers on the wine trains travel on authentic 1920's-era Victorian train coaches along the historic Cotton Belt Route. I haven’t been on a wine train ride myself, so I don’t have a personal recommendation.

Grapevine Vintage Railroad

Another option Grapevine offers is a guided winery tours. Contact Grapevine Wine Tours for an outing that also includes lunch or dinner. If you want to make sure you get nothing but Texas wine, schedule a private tour for your party. The regularly scheduled tours may also include stops at a couple of the wineries I’ve mentioned, but the private tours will also include Bingham and Off the Vine which are not on the public tours.

Grapevine Wine Tours

The 8 wineries on the Urban Winery trail are part of many holiday events throughout the year. Tickets always go quickly! Grapevine is also known as the Christmas Capital of Texas, so that’s a fun time to go wine tasting, shopping and dining around the historic main street.

Some of the wrap around events planned for GrapeFest are still happening. The tennis classic and the Texas Wine Tribute, a black-tie event that recognizes leaders in Texas wine, are still on the calendar, at least for now. Check the website for more details.

GrapeFest 2020

In Summary:
So, yes, there is good Texas wine in Grapevine, you just need to know where to find it. The Texas wine culture isn’t as prevalent in Grapevine as it should be. Considering the number of visitors that come to Grapevine, both from in-state, from other states, and from around the world, showcasing Texas wine should be a priority here.

I would love to see more wineries on Main Street, and I wish they all sold Texas wine. I wish every Grapevine restaurant had a section of its wine list dedicated to Texas wine, and I wish there was more variety in the wines on wine lists.

Grapevine has the perfect infrastructure for creating more Texas wine lovers, and the city has already done so much for the industry.

A huge thank you to those Texas wineries, restaurants, wine shops, TWGGA, and other businesses that support Texas wine in Grapevine. I support you and encourage all my listeners to get to Grapevine to check out the new developments, dine in the new restaurants, and buy some Texas wine! When Texas tasting rooms reopen, don’t forget about the ones in Grapevine. Cheers!

What I'm Drinking

2018 Bingham Family Vineyards Cloudburst

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Mentioned in this Episode

Texas Wine In the News

  1. "H-E-B Is A Texas Titan"
  2. Tablas Creek Blog
  3. The Taste With Doug Shafer Podcast featuring Kim McPherson

Texas Wine 101: Shopping for your First Case of Texas Wine

Today I’m going to talk you through what you need to know to get started learning about and drinking The Lone Star State’s greatest fermented fruit juice. That’s right, I’m talking about Texas wine.

If you’re not already drinking Texas wine, what are you waiting for? So you’re not an early adopter. That’s OK. You’re here now, and that’s what matters. This episode is for all of you who are ready to explore Texas wine but are not quite sure where to start.

Texas isn’t new to grape growing or winemaking. In fact, the first grapes were grown in Texas in the 1600’s by Spanish missionaries. We’ve had our ups and downs over a couple centuries, not to mention the nationwide catastrophe of Prohibition, but things started looking up for Texas wine in the 1980’s. The number of wineries expanded, and the wine started flowing.

Remember it wasn’t until 1976 that the judgment in Paris happened when it became OK to even drink California wine. Before that France was the end all and be all. As I shared in my last podcast, many Californians and wine connoisseurs who had heard about Texas wines called them disparaging names like “Chateau Bubba” or “Cactus Blanc.”

Here we are in 2020. Texas wine is a whole new ballgame. The spirit of experimentation is alive and well here. Texas isn’t just making the wines your parents drank, although sure, there are some of those too. You’ll find a bit of everything in Texas, from the most traditional grape varieties made in time honored ways to some more lesser known grape varieties, ancient winemaking techniques that are making a comeback. Behind every bottle, or can or keg, there’s a great story about hardworking Texans who farm the land and make great wine.

There is a growing sense of pride in Texas grown, Texas made products and Texas wine is no different. Isn’t it about time Texas wineries had as much support as iconic Texas products as Whataburger, Bucee’s, Dr Pepper and Shiner Bock. That’s one reason I’ve been using the hashtag #texansdrinktexas.

Today I want to give you some pointers about how to experience Texas wine for the first time, or the first time in a long time.

But first, here are 5 things that I don’t recommend:

  1. Trying Texas wine once in 1997 and deciding it’s not for you and never trying it again.
  2. Trying texas wine in 105 degree weather out of a plastic shot glass at a festival and deciding it’s not for you and never trying it again.
  3. Mistakenly believing that a generic California wine is a status symbol.
  4. Being crazy about craft beer but not giving texas wine its due.
  5. Being all about natural wine but not considering texas’ natural wine producers. and even the more conventional producers that are using low-impact styles. This is a topic that could take up an entire podcast episode, but just know that the growers and wineries that are responsibly farming grapes in Texas are doing so with a lot of care for the end product and for the environment.

Sadly, In the COVID-19 era, the places where you might encounter Texas wines are dwindling in number. Festivals are canceled, and we aren’t spending time in bars. Even wine tasting at wineries is on hold for the moment. Still restaurants are open, we still have to shop for groceries, and thank goodness, internet shopping is still a thing. We can experience Texas wines in all of these places, so let’s talk about each one.

Then I’ll finish by introducing my Texas Wine starter case, a shopping guide that will fill your shelves with a nice variety of Texas wine.

In a restaurant:
Whenever you see a Texas wines on a restaurant wine list, I highly recommend that you order it. Not only do you get to try a Texas wine, but your purchase signals to the restaurant that there’s a market for Texas wines on the list.

Since you’re attempting to drink more Texas wine, why not look for a restaurant that’s been recognized as having a great Texas wine list? look no further than the restaurants that have been named Texas Wine Champions by the Texas Department of Agriculture and the Texas Wine Ambassador Jason Hisaw. Jason works for a wine distribution company but has also been given authority by the Department of Agriculture to award restaurants that are great supporters of texas wine with this designation. You can find the list of restaurants by following Jason’s Instagram account: @txwineambassador. He travels the state and gives out these awards to deserving restaurants that have Texas wines by the glass and by the bottle.

Finally, if a restaurant that you visit frequently DOESN’T have Texas wine on the list, ask for it! Restaurant owners have no reason to change up their list unless they ask. Ask them in person, and then ask them again on social media.

In a wine shop or grocery store:
Do you know which wine shop near you has the best selection of Texas wines? Make it your mission to find out! Don’t be afraid to talk to the salesperson. Maybe the shop will offer tastings or classes on Texas wine or let you know when a new wine comes in. Not only that, find out which sales person is the biggest fan of Texas wine, and get to know that person. Expect to get some great wine recommendations once you’ve established a relationship.

Don’t limit yourself to the most familiar international varieties like Chardonnay, Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot and Pinot Noir. Although these can be great in Texas, some of our best wines are made from less common grapes such as Mourvèdre, Tannat, Montepulciano, Tinto Cao, Cinsault, or Picpoul Blanc.
You’ll also run across wines with fantasy names such as Skeleton Key or Junkyard Red. It might not be clear what’s inside. Hopefully a staff member can help make recommendations if these grapes or brands are unfamiliar to you.

One word of caution: Be aware that wine shops and grocery stores have started importing wine from Mexico. Quite good wine in fact. One popular brand is Casa Madero which is the oldest winery in the Americas. But it’s often displayed with the Texas wine. Don’t pick it up by accident!

In the winery:
As you probably know, there are A LOT of texas wines that aren’t sold in the grocery store, and you won’t find them on a restaurant wine list. Instead, they’re sold in tasting rooms or through mailing lists. These are probably the wineries that have had the toughest time this year since tasting rooms have been shut down. It is estimated that 95% of Texas wine is sold through the tasting room, so you can imagine the impact of the shutdown has had on these wineries. It’s really a shame, because there’s no better place to learn about Texas wine than to go straight to the source.

That leads me to how we can best support Texas wineries. The answer is simple, buy wine from them. Yep, The absolute best way to support Texas wineries is to buy wines directly from wineries. When you buy curbside or online, the wineries are making more money than when the wines enter the distribution channel and get sent to retail locations.

So since you’re committing to learning more about Texas wine, I want you to go visit the 5 tasting rooms that are closest to where you live - as soon as you can safely do so. Try their wines and learn their history. And while you’re at it, inquire about the wine club and any upcoming events on the calendar.

Not every winery has a wine club. Some are selling to an email list or they’re just dependent on whoever walks through the doors of a tasting room. But if a winery offers a wine club, that’s a great way to support them. They count on your consistent support from season to season. When you sign up, you’re guaranteeing that you’ll stay a club member for a least a couple shipments.

The best way you can find out which wineries are closest to you is to visit the Texas Wine Lover website at txwinelover.com and click on winery map.

Your challenge, if you choose to accept it, is to go shopping and fill a case with Texas wine as suggested in the graphics that are posted to Instagram and Facebook. I’m calling it the Texas Starter Case.

Basically, it’s an empty case box with labels for what Texas wines you need to buy to fill the box. If you drink the assigned wines, I feel like you’ll have a good sense for what Texas wine is all about. As we’ve discussed already, you can get these wines through retail channels, or better yet, directly from a winery.

My Texas wine shopping list includes 3 slots for white wines: I’m suggesting a Viognier, a white blend, and a wildcard.

You’ve 3 slots for rose. One of those might be a pet-nat. Now these are going to be hard to find at a grocery store. I think most Texas rose gets sold out of the tasting room because it’s so popular. But do yourself a favor and seek it out, because I think rose is one of the wines Texas does best. And if you can’t find a pèt-nat or another bottle of sparkling wine, substitute a canned rose! There are several on the market, and I even drank one on the last podcast.

Finally, the other half the case is dedicated to red wine. I’ve included many of our state’s favorite grape varieties here, as well as another wildcard slot, this time for a red wine.

When you’re looking for suggestions of which wines to try, you might want to do some research before heading out to the store or placing that online order. Ask your friends and family. Log on to the Texas Wine Lover website and look to see which wines have won awards. Of course I’m partial to the wines that have won at TEXSOM International Wine Awards because that’s the competition where I volunteer, and it’s definitely a tough competition to medal in, but you know when a wine wins there that it’s been carefully considered by a stellar panel of top notch judges and is really a special wine. The Texas Wine Lover site always shares results from the TEXSOM competition, from the San Francisco competitions and others, so you can go to txwinelover.com and find the results to see which wines have won.

Click here for Texas Wine Lover coverage of Texas wine results in recent competitions

I’ll mention a few of my favorite wines that may be good choices for your starter pack:

  • Viognier: Brennan Vineyards Viognier
  • White blend: Llano Estacado 1836 White - This wine won the Judge’s Selection medal for best white in Texas at the 2020 TEXSOM IWA.
  • White Wildcard: McPherson Cellars Picpoul Blanc
  • Rosé: Lewis Wines
  • Pèt Nat: You’ll likely have to order a pèt-nat or pick it up directly from a winery, but there are a lot of good options available.
  • Tempranillo: so many Texas wineries make Tempranillo that you won’t have any trouble at all finding one!
  • Red Wildcard: Lost Draw Cellars Sangiovese- This wine won the Judge’s Selection medal for best red in Texas at the 2020 TEXSOM IWA.
  • Tannat: Bending Branch Winery
  • Mourvèdre: William Chris Vineyards
  • Red Blend: Reddy Vineyards Field Blend

More Rosé Recommendations from my recent interview:
"Try These 5 Texas Rosés This Summer"

Education & What I'm Drinking

Southold Piquette

Quick update since recording the episode: Regan says that they use a mix of red and white grapes in the pomace. They add no So2, just a very small mixture of yeast and sugar for canning. That's what gives the piquette its fizz. There you have it!

The Austin Winery make piquette too!

"Getting to Know Piquette, A Wine Adjacent Spritzer"

"What is Piquette? Meet Wine’s Easy-Drinking, Low-alcohol Style"

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Mentioned in this Episode

Texas Wine In the News

  1. Decanter: "Fourth of July Wines: Beyond California"
  2. Politico reports on Senator Ted Cruz wine tasting events
  3. Texas on the Rhône Ama Waterways Cruise - November 2021

The 12 Bottles That Moved the Needle on the Texas Wine Industry

These 12 bottles of Texas wine moved the Texas wine industry forward and were revolutionary for their time. They brought attention to Texas in ways that no previous wine had.

One caveat: most of the primary research on these wines has been done by others, not by me. Since there’s no one definitive guide to Texas wine history, I’ve pulled bits and pieces of stories and accounts from a several different sources. I’ve done my best to be true to the history and to get clarification where necessary.

Many thanks to Jim Johnson from Alamosa Cellars, Bill Fore and Dr. Bob Young at Bending Branch, Kassandra McPherson from McPherson Cellars, and Jeff Cope from Texas Wine Lover for helping me with tracking down details on these bottles.

And hats off to the wine writers that have been covering the Texas wine scene since before I was paying attention. Rebecca Murphy, Jessica Dupuy, Russ Kane, Tina Danze, Terry Thompson-Anderson, Kim Pierce, and others. Cheers to you.

Please listen to the podcast for my rationale for including these wines and for additional details on each selection. The list begins in 1986 and continues in chronological order.

In 1986 at the San Francisco Fair Exposition & Wine Competition, two Texas wines won big.

1 - 1983 Pheasant Ridge Cabernet Sauvignon was awarded the first Gold medal for a Texas red wine in a California wine competition.

2 - 1984 Llano Estacado Chardonnay won a rare Double Gold Medal for the 1984 Chardonnay. The winemaker was Kim McPherson who had been winemaker there since 1979.

Background from Texas Wine Lover

Wine historian Leon Adams said, “There’s no question the high South Plains is a viticulture miracle. No one realized this area could produce world-class wines. It is an amazing story.” No more “Chateau Bubba” or “Cactus Blanc.”

Forked Tendrils: Llano Estacado Winery and the Rise of the Modern Texas Wine Industry by Eric Sanchez (Texas Tech University, A Thesis in History, 1996)

3 - In 1992, the 1990 Messina Hoff Johannisberg Riesling Texas Late Harvest Angel was the first Texas wine to earn a 90 in Wine Spectator. It is still the highest rated Texas wine on Wine Spectator.

4- 1997 Fall Creek Sauvignon Blanc was the first Texas wine to be named a Best Buy by Wine Spectator.

5 - 1998 McPherson Sangiovese Sagmore Vineyard was made from the first Sangiovese planted in the state.

Dallas Morning News "Texas sangiovese lands on list of James Beard semifinalists."

6 – 1999 Alamosa Cellars “El Guapo” Tempranillo. Jim and Karen Johnson planted the Hill Country’s first Tempranillo vines in 1998, and the El Guapo bottling was the first commercially available Tempranillo in the state.

7 – 2003 Haak Jacquez Madeira (released 2006). Haak Madeira is the first and only commercial Madeira made and bottled in the state of Texas. The Haak label was approved mere days before the 2006 agreement went into effect between the U.S. government and the European Union that banned the use of the titles Port, Sherry, Madeira and similar European-styled wine monikers on U.S. labels.

Edible Austin "Haak Vineyards and Winery"

8 – Duchman Vermentino & Montepulciano in KegIn 2010, Duchman became the first Texas winery to keg wines for serving on tap.

Vintage Texas "Whole Foods launches Duchman wines on tap! A new first in Texas wine history!"

Austin Culture Map Duchman Family Winery produces Texas wine with Italian flair

9 – The 2010 Bending Branch Cabernet from Newsom Vineyards was the first Texas Cabernet Sauvignon to win Double Gold at the San Francisco International Wine Competition. It was Bending Branch’s first wine to utilize cryo-maceration and set a trajectory for innovative technology.

Texas Wine Lover "Bending Branch Cabernet Sauvignon Wins Double Gold"

10 – The 2015 launch of Locations Brand TX by Napa Valley winemaker Dave Phinney and Kim McPherson, one of the first nationally distributed Texas wines.

Texas Monthly "McPherson Cellars Launches One of the First Nationally-Distributed Texas Wines"

11 – The 2017 Nectar Nero Texas Rosé by 4R Ranch Vineyards & Winery earned one of only nine sweepstakes medals awarded at the San Francisco Chronicle Wine Competition, a first sweepstakes medal for a Texas wine.

Dallas Morning News "4R Ranch is first Texas winery to win top honors in San Francisco wine competition"

12 - Sway Rosé by Yes We Can Wine became the first 100% Texas-grown canned rosé. It was first released in 2017 by Chris Brundrett of William Chris Vineyards and Andrew Sides of Lost Draw Cellars. It later won the first ever Gold medal awarded to a canned wine at the Houston rodeo wine competition.

First Ever Gold Medal Awarded to Yes We Can Wine's Sway Rosé, at Houston’s Rodeo Uncorked International Wine Competition"

Education

VIDEO: Discussion of the 2017 Harvest and picking decisions with Fall Creek Vineyards' Director of Winemaking Sergio Cuadra

What is Brix?

What I'm Drinking

Sway Rosé

"Is the Future of Wine in the Can?"

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Subscribe to the podcast in Apple Podcasts
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Mentioned in this Episode

Texas Wine In the News

  1. Fall Creek Vineyards Lescalo Chenin Blanc
  2. Messina Hof is Hiring for the New Harvest Green (Greater Houston area)
  3. Texas Hill Country Wineries’ Wine Journey Passport Event is July 31 - August 16

Top 10 Tips for Planning a Wine-Focused Trip to the Texas Hill Country

Tip 10. Consider lodging location carefully. There are so many options that it’s hard to narrow down your choices. How far away are wineries? Restaurants? What’s your style? Country and rustic or modern and bohemian? There’s something for everyone, and every price point too.

Here are some recommendations listed from west (Fredericksburg) to east (Johnson City):
Cotton Gin Village
 Modern Guest Houses: Ololo
Hoffman Haus Luxury B&B
 Tipsy Peach Barn
Messina Hof’s Country Cottages
 Historic Stonewall Motor Lodge
French Connection Maisonnettes (Hye)
 Carter Creek Winery, Resort & Spa
* Farmhouse Vineyards’ Guest Cottage (Johnson City)

Tip 9. Which wineries should you visit? How much time do you have?
Make sure you see both large and small production wineries. Schedule some quick tasting visits and some more extensive tours or tastings. You’ll definitely want to find a winery or two that has a great view. An in-town tasting room can offer lots of things, but there’s nothing like enjoying your tasting while looking out over the wide-open Hill Country landscape.

Here are some suggestions:

For an upscale tasting with a nice view, check out the new William Chris Vineyards tasting room. On weekends, this new space is for wine club members only. William Chris is one of the biggest producers of Mourvedre in the nation, so you’re sure to hear a lot about how this grape grows so well in Texas.

4.0 Cellars is a joint effort between Brennan Vineyards (Comanche), Lost Oak Winery (Burleson) and McPherson Cellars (Lubbock). You’ll have an opportunity to try wines from each of these wineries. They’ve also got a special Texas wine and Texas cheese class.

Just a couple miles south of Fredericksburg is the newest collaborative space in town, Slate Mill Wine Collective. It used to be a family operated winery called 1851 Vineyards and is now a custom crush facility that’s shared by 10 wine brands. There’s also a 35-acre estate vineyard there. Brands you can taste there include Tatum, Dandy, CL Butaud, and Farmhouse.

In Fredericksburg proper, one of your best bets on the weekends is the Pontotoc Vineyard Weingarten on Main Street. You’ll swear you’re in Austria by the looks of the stone walled courtyard. Pontotoc has an estate vineyard in nearby Pontonoc which is in Mason County. They’re dedicated to using all Texas grapes.

Another great stop is Perspective Cellars. This is a truly educational venue and a great way to learn about Texas wine! They’ll pour you a flight of three wines: one from Texas, one from the Old World, and one from the New World. Then you’ll get to learn about how they’re made, the terroir, and more. They also sell wine and do all sorts of events. Looks so fun!

Personally, I favor wineries that are making wines from Texas grapes. After all, I’m there to taste Texas wines. It’s not always easy to tell at first glance which wineries meet that criteria though, so you’ve got to do some research ahead of time. One way to guarantee you’re visiting a winery with a 100% Texas grapes track-record is if they’re a member of an organization called Texas Wine Growers. But not all the wineries that are 100% Texas are members of this organization.

Tip 8. Be open to some new varieties and some new winemaking styles. Don’t be surprised if some of the wines you try aren’t the usual favorites that you usually drink. Although Texas’ top red grapes include Cabernet and Merlot, the other grapes may be less familiar. It’s fine to tell the person pouring for you that you’re new to Texas wine and unfamiliar with the variety. They’ll be thrilled to tell you about the grape and how it may be similar or different to what you’ve had before. Check out this article I wrote for Texas Wine Lover website to see what’s growing out in Texas vineyards.

Many wineries along 290 will showcase Tempranillo, but for some of the finest, check out Pedernales Cellars in Stonewall. Tempranillo is really the backbone of what they do in the red wine program, and this year Pedernales even has a pet-nât from Tempranillo.

If you’re into natural wine, or are curious about a low-interventional style of winemaking, you’ve got to try Crowson Wines in Johnson City and Southold Farm & Cellar, mid-way between Johnson City and Fredericksburg.

If Rhone varieties are your thing, check out French Connection Wines in Hye. You may already know Benjamin Calais’s other project, Calais Wines. His new effort with partner Sheri Pattillo showcases Rhone varieties including a Picpoul Blanc, a lovely Marsanne/Rousanne/Viognier blend, and rosé, among others.

Tip 7. Schedule your day, and don’t overpack your itinerary. Saturdays and Sundays are very busy, and you don’t want to show up without reservations and expect a full tasting. Also, some wineries aren’t open Monday – Wednesday.

If it’s been awhile since you’ve been wine tasting, you may be surprised that wine tasting isn’t free anymore. Expect to pay $15 or $20 per person. This may be refunded if you buy a couple of bottles. Also, while some wineries are child and dog friendly, not all are. I can’t stress enough how important it is to plan ahead so that you’re not disappointed.

Evenings are often slow, but it can be a good time to schedule a nice dinner or find some live music. The Convention & Visitor Bureau has a printed guide or check their website.

Tip 6. Variety is the spice of life! Keep your palate fresh by mixing in some other types of fun.

Ideas:
(Seasonal) Emergence of 3 million Mexican-free tailed bats at the Old Tunnel State Park

Don’t miss the burgers at nearby Alamo Springs Cafe

Fredericksburg Shopping along Main Street

Fabulous eclectic homegoods at Blackchalk Home & Laundry

Specialty kitchen store: Der Kuchen Laden

Floral workshop at Windmill Meadow Farm

Tip 5. Getting around requires a car, preferably one that you don’t drive yourself. At a minimum, designate a driver. Here’s a list of tour companies that will drive you according to your itinerary or theirs.

Tip 4. Restaurants are plentiful - except along the stretch between Johnson City and Fredericksburg! My favorite stop between the two is Hye Market, a casual spot to eat or pick up picnic fixins. LBJ State Park is close by. Stout’s Trattoria at Grape Creek Vineyards is another good option for a sit down meal.

Cabernet Grill’s all-Texas wine list can’t be beat! Dinner is scrumptious too.

Otto’s is the best-rated German influenced restaurant in town. Stroll down a few doors to Le Bergerie, a cute retail shop and wine bar.

Culinary options abound. How about a cooking class at Das Peach Haus? A private class on German cuisine, perhaps? There’s wine tasting and plenty of samples of Fischer & Wieser products too.

Tip 3. Check the local events calendar for festivals, winery events, farmers markets, live music, and more.

Start by looking on the Convention and Visitor Bureau website and then look on specific winery websites and Facebook.

Tip 2. Consider wine club memberships. Even if you can’t visit the region regularly, becoming a wine club member can give you serious discounts and access to wines that you wouldn’t otherwise be able to buy. It’s common for wine club members to get discounts of up to 25%. If you are able to visit the winery more frequently, you can expect invitations to pickup parties or winemaker dinners, free tastings at the winery and more.

Tip 1. Have fun and expect to be delighted. The people working in the Texas wine industry are really good at their job. They’re going to work hard to help you find a wine you love. They’ll provide you with as much information about Texas wine as you want. You’re likely to be sitting across from someone with a really interesting story. Don’t miss the opportunity to find out what got them interested in Texas wine.

I hope you have a great trip! Please reach out with your trip planning questions or feedback on your favorite places.

If you’re looking for the closest winery to you home or vacation destination, check out the Texas wineries map on the Texas Wine Lover website.

Education

Wine Serving Temperature

Wine Serving Temperature Graphic
I keep my main wine refrigerator set at 55. That’s the perfect serving temperature for a light red and a heavier-bodied white. I often drink rosé at this temperature too.
 For a lighter white (or sometimes rosé), I put the wine into an ice bucket or into my kitchen refrigerator for a little while to chill it further.
For a fuller-bodied red, I will keep the wine out at room temperature for a short time to allow it to warm up a bit. I may also decant it during this time.
 For sparking wine, I transfer it to an ice bucket and serve it quite cold.
A too-cold serving temperature will mask a wine’s aromatics.
 A wine served too warm may feel “hot” and burn the nose or throat.
* The proper serving temperature helps a wine show its best qualities!

What I’m Drinking

Lost Draw Cellars 2018 Counoise from Farmhouse Vineyards

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Mentioned in this Episode

Connect with the Podcast:
Facebook: @texaswinepod
Instagram: @texaswinepod
Twitter: @texaswinepod
Email: texaswinepod@gmail.com

Help the Show:

Subscribe to the podcast in Apple Podcasts

Subscribe to the newsletter to get the downloadable guide to my top 10 Texas wine experiences during quarantine.

Texas Wine In the News

  1. “Fort Worth Food and Wine Festival Canceled but Foundation Supports Culinary Community”
  2. “Texas Tech Wine Marketing Research Institute study explores motivations and behaviors of US wine consumers before and during COVID–19 lockdown”
  3. “Shopper suspicions confirmed: DFW grocery prices shot up during the pandemic”
  4. American Association of Wine Economists’ Graphic about Wine Preferences in 20 Large Cities

Texas Wine in 10 Minutes

The first vineyard in Texas was planted in 1668 by Spanish missionaries in what is now El Paso.

There were a few dozen Texas wineries by 1920, then the industry’s progress was halted by Prohibition. Only one Val Verde Winery, founded in 1883, survived. It had a pass to make sacramental wine during prohibition and is still operating today in Del Rio.

After Prohibition (1920–1933), it took a long time for the Texas wine industry to get going again. Llano Estacado was founded in 1976. And then finally, the modern Texas wine industry took off.

Texas is now the 5th largest wine producing state and has around 400 wineries.

There are 8 AVAs, or American viticultural areas, in Texas.

The Texas High Plains AVA is where about 80% of the grapes in Texas wines are grown. It’s in the northwest part of the state near the city of Lubbock. The Plains are flat, but they are indeed high. this could be considered high altitude grape growing. The vineyards sit at about 3300–4000 feet on well drained, clay loam and sandy loam soil. There is a big diurnal shift here. That means there’s a big temperature change from day to night. the cool nights help preserve the grape’s acidity. Many of the grape growers in this area are generational farmers of other crops and have diversified into planting grapes. The biggest challenges here are freezing temperatures – usually in the late spring after budbreak, but possible in the fall too – and hail. Irrigation is a must.

The Texas Hill Country AVA is located in the center of the state is north of San Antonio and west of Austin. It’s the largest AVA in Texas and the THIRD largest AVA in the country*, covering 9 million acres. The vineyards here are generally smaller in acreage than those in the Texas High Plains. They sit on a variety of soil types including limestone, granite and clay. Pierce’s disease is a bigger problem here than in the High Plains. It’s a bit less likely to see the freezes and hail that the High Plains gets. It’s also at a much lower elevation, and the warmer temperatures put its growing season ahead by a few weeks compared to the High Plains. Within the Hill Country AVA you’ll find two sub-AVAs that are nested inside the larger AVA. These are the Bell Mountain AVA (the oldest in the state) and Fredericksburg AVA.

There are about 80 wineries in the Texas Hill Country, and the center of this area is the town of Fredericksburg. It’s the second most visited wine region in the nation after Napa Valley.

The Texas Davis Mountains AVA is one to watch. It’s FAR out in the desert of west Texas near Marfa. It’s the highest elevation AVA in the state with vineyards over 5500’ elevation and it’s also the coolest. It’s also got the only volcanic soil in the state.

The other AVAs are Escondido Valley. It’s located far west Texas near Fort Stockton.

Texoma AVA is along the Texas-Oklahoma border.

Finally, the Mesilla Valley AVA is on the far western tip of Texas near El Paso. This AVA is shared with New Mexico.

There are also many fine wineries that are outside of these AVAs, and their wines are simply labeled TEXAS. (To clarify, their estate vineyards are not located within an AVA.)

Early on, Texas consumers wanted the international varieties that they were drinking from California like Chardonnay, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Merlot so that’s what Texas grape growers planted. Now, many of these early plantings are being changed over to more of the grape varieties that thrive in the warmer climates of the Mediterranean. Texas grows a very wide variety of grapes and has over 5000 acres of bearable grapevines. Its most planted red grapes are Cabernet Sauvignon, Tempranillo and Merlot and the most planted white grapes are Blanc du Bois, Viognier, and Muscat Canelli. Production is about 70% red wine and 30% white wine.

Hybrid grape varieties like Blanc du bois and black Spanish are popular in the southeast part of the state where humidity makes Pierce’s disease a persistent problem.

Texas Tempranillo has a great reputation, as does Texas Viognier. Mourvedré is coming on strong. Rosé is very popular. Off-dry and sweet wine is popular with some Texas wine drinkers, but the majority of what is produced is dry. Texas also makes some great Port-style wine, and a bit of sparkling wine.

In 2013, the Texas High Plains experienced a devastating late spring freeze, so there the volume of Texas wine produced suffered. 2014 was much better, but not ideal. Since 2015, Mother Nature has mostly cooperated. 2015 and 2017 were especially great vintages. The Texas High Plains had a Halloween freeze in 2019, so the 2020 vintage is looking sparse for some growers.

Now that Texas growers have focused in on the right grapes for the right vineyards for our Texas climate, Texas wine has gotten much better. There’s increasing level of winemaking talent in the state, some homegrown, and some transplanted from other parts of the world. Some winemakers in Texas utilize the latest cutting-edge technology to maximize extraction. Others adopt a zero-zero non-interventional approach. There’s not just one right way to do things around here.

One issue that is sure to come up again in 2021 when the state legislature reconvenes is how Texas wine is labeled. Like 46 other states, Texas wine is only required to have 75% Texas fruit in it. The states with the more developed wine industries have all passed more stringent legislation, and this issue has come before the state legislature before in 2017 and 2019.

The largest winery in Texas is St Genevieve winery located in Fort Stockton. They make extremely affordable wine, often in large format bottles. The second largest winery is Llano Estacado located in Lubbock.

Most of the wine produced in Texas stays in the state. Although there are some wines that are available in wider distribution, many are not. Most wineries do ship outside the state.

Texans drank just over 60 million gallons of wine in 2018 and produced 4.28 million gallons of Texas wine. So we are well short of producing the amount of wine we need to produce to meet the demand of our own state. For now, we will have to keep drinking non-Texas wine.

Texas wineries have always been serious about showing guests a great time. But at some wineries, the wine was a bit of an afterthought. In the past 15 years or so, many Texas wineries have also gotten as serious about premium wine as they are about hospitality.

Wineries are entering well regarded wine competitions, and Texas wines are winning. Sommeliers are taking an interest in Texas wines, and more wines are entering distribution outside the state. Texas restaurants are coming around, finally adding Texas options to wine lists.

Wine is a big business in Texas, responsible for over 100,000 jobs and a $13.1 billion dollar economic impact.

Texas is an exciting wine region with a pioneering spirit. The wines just keep getting better. I hope you’re drinking Texas wine along with me.

*Note: It is often reported that the Texas Hill Coutry is the second largest AVA, but I said it was the third. I confirmed this with January Weise at the Texas Hill Country Wineries. She reports that both the Upper Mississippi River Valley AVA (over 19 million acres) and the Ohio River Valley AVA (at over 16 million acres) are larger than the Texas Hill Country AVA.

References:

Texas Wine Grape Varieties Report

Texas Wine & Grape Growers Association

Texas Hill Country Wineries

Texas High Plains Growers

Texas Wine Lover article “Texas Grapevines by the Numbers: What’s Trending Up, What’s Trending Down, and What It Means for Texas Wine”

Vintage Texas

Wine consumption by state

Wine produced by state

Education:

Doug Lewis’s photo of verasion. See Lewis Wine’s June 10 post for more photos and description.

What I’m Drinking:

Perissos 2017 Racker’s Blend

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Why start a Texas wine podcast?
Excerpts from my business plan:

  • Fill the Texas wine void in the podcasting medium. Although there are some brand-specific podcasts or video shows, there isn’t currently a Texas wine podcast that spans across brands.
  • Engage a Texas wine loving community. I see the love for Texas wine increasing, and I find that people are hungry for more.
  • Provide wine education for consumers. I love educating people about Texas wine and providing wine education. We enjoy wine more when we know more!
  • Texas needs to attract new Texas wine drinkers. According to the Federal Register, there are 21.3 million Texans over the age of 21. A 2019 Gallup Poll tell us that 65% of the population drinks alcohol. So, we have a potential Texas wine market of 13.8 million people. How many of those currently drink Texas wine?
    • Of those that drink alcohol, 30% of Americans prefer wine, 38% prefer beer, and 29% prefer liquor. My target reach for this podcast is the 4,154,230 Texans who prefer wine.
  • This podcast can promote Texas as a wine travel destination. Specifically, how can people who love wine travel better around Texas?
  • Podcast episodes reside online forever, and they can be discovered by new listeners for years to come.

Connect with the Podcast:
Facebook: @texaswinepod
Instagram: @texaswinepod
Twitter: @texaswinepod
Email: texaswinepod@gmail.com

Help the Show:
Subscribe to the podcast in Apple Podcasts
Subscribe to the newsletter to get the downloadable guide to my top 10 Texas wine experiences during quarantine.

Mentioned in this Episode

  1. My Texas wine journey began thanks to Jeff Cope, founder and editor of Texas Wine Lover Texas Wine Lover is where you'll find maps of all of the wineries and vineyards across Texas, winery profiles, winemaker interviews, and more!
  2. Dilek Caner MW of Dallas Wine Education Center was my fabulous teacher for WSET levels 2 and 3. I can't recommend this enough for those wanting a serious, thorough wine education that includes plenty of tasting practice.
  3. The Society for Wine Educators offers the Certified Specialist of Wine certification. It is another excellent choice for wine education. The self-study format requires that you be self-motivated!
  4. Russ Kane, author of The Wineslinger Chronicles, taught the Specialist of Texas Wine course that I took in 2018 through The Texas Wine School. There's another Specialist of Texas Wine course starting July 15. Russ also blogs at www.VintageTexas.com.
  5. Gallup poll with Americans' alcohol preferences

Texas Wine In the News

  1. Forbes article "Texas Winery Kuhlman Cellars Earns 5 medals in French wine competition"
  2. Gus Clemens article "It's a fine time to buy wine online"
  3. Wine Spectator article "Wineries Cautiously Begin Reopening Phase"
  4. Texas Monthly article "Virtual Wine Tastings Pop Up Across Texas"
  5. Food and Wine article "The Best Virtual Wine Tastings to Enjoy from Home Right Now"

Learn more about Wine Podcasts

  • Wine Enthusiast article "Podcasts for Every Wine Lover from Beginners to Experts"
  • Sacramento Bee article "Forget taste and smell. Sound is the new way to sell wine to millennials"
  • Kiepersol Texas Podcast
  • Kuhlman Cellars Vlog
  • Texas Wine Lover traveled the state conducting interviews for a podcast that was active through 2017. Listen to old podcasts on the Texas Wine Lover website.
  • Many Texas winemakers and winery owners were interviewed (2015-2018) at Austin Public Radio by Mark Rashap on the podcast Another Bottle Down. Listen to old episodes here.

What I'm Drinking

  • McPherson Cellars Sparkling Chenin Blanc

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Introducing This Is Texas Wine podcast. 

Launches June 25, 2020.

Cheers!