The "T" is for Texas: Llano Estacado Reserve Cellar Tempranillo

October 13, 2020 by Monica Jones in holidays, pairings, food, wine, Texas Wines, reviews, winederlust

Fall has always been my favorite time of year. It’s the perfect season to get cozy with a good bottle of wine, fall scents, a boo and a cheesy rom-com. As a lover of Texas wine it’s my duty to remind my fellow wine-o’s about the unofficial holiday designed to please our palates during this season. Annually, Texas Wine Month kicks off in October where locals and tourists from all over the world are encouraged to sip and support the more than 400 wineries and tasting rooms throughout the state. This period of time is promoted to wine enthusiasts to increase wine sales and develop a deeper connection to the beauty and simplicity of Texas winemaking. West Texas is known for its thriving ag community, however the wine industry would like a word. With over 8 million acres the region is mostly rural with dry summers and cool evenings. The flat terrain also helps to produce a range of grapes that are best suited for growing in Texas. Together, these are good indicators of the regions dynamics and uniqueness in winemaking.

Llano Estacado Winery is one of Texas’ longest running and premium wineries known for laying the foundation for the style of Texas winemaking. Producing world-class wines and remaining versatile has kept them at the top of their game for over four decades. With more than 60 wines in their portfolio Llano shows no sign of slowing down. I decided to kick off the unofficial holiday by pouring a bottle of their Tempranillo from the wineries Reserve Cellar collection. The collection is home to a thoughtfully curated selection of small batch wines. You’re probably familiar with Tempranillo and its origin of Spain however don’t be fooled the “ T ” in Tempranillo stands for Texas. In recent years it’s been named as the signature grape from the thriving Texas wine industry. If you’re a fan of earthy Cabs you’ll likely love this varietal. This medium to full-bodied red is filled with a generous amount of tannins, plum, red berries and some oak which leaves a textured finish on the palate. I also picked up hints of almond and vanilla. At 13.9% this wine is pretty high in alcohol content so be mindful when trying to consume the entire bottle during cuffing season. I paired this wine with a meaty portion of slow cooked oxtails, garlic mashed potatoes and parmesan asparagus. This hearty dish was perfect for my fall comfort craving and complimented the rich Tempranillo well. I’d also recommend entrees that are seasoned with paprika for added spice. If you’re a true Texan, you’ll have no issues pairing your pours with beef tostadas, chorizo stew or even chicken and sausage gumbo. Llano relies on a blend of red grapes with 79% Tempranillo, 10% Tannat, 6% Mourvèdre and 5% Graciano. The bold blend of reds are perfectly good on their own, but even better together especially grown on Texas soils. Tasting rooms in Texas are slowly beginning to open their doors thanks to Governor Abbott loosening the reigns amid the pandemic, but you can still pickup a bottle to add to your collection HERE or from your local Total Wine & More. Be sure to follow @Llanowine on Instagram or visit www.llanowine.com to stay updated on special events throughout Texas Wine Month.

Llano Estacado Reserve Cellar Tempranillo

13.9% ALC

79% Tempranillo, 10% Tannat, 6% Mourvèdre and 5% Graciano

$25

That's On Texas..

September 11, 2020 by Monica Jones in Texas Wines, pairings, reviews, wine

I believe in divine timing. Everything happens for a reason and in due time. Originally, I began my journey to obtain my WSET I certification, but right after launching my blog I decided to take a different direction. I've always believed the blog to serve as a platform for Black and brown millennials to gain more knowledge about the world of wine in a less intimidating fashion. As a true Texan, I also hoped to highlight the sophistication of Texas winemaking and showcase my appreciation for the winemakers who have created a lane of their own. After visiting Napa earlier this year I began to realize the distinct differences between America’s beloved wine country and the Texas hills. With a new focus, I began to seek out opportunities to learn more about grape growing in Texas. The instructor from my Intro to Wine course suggested I take the Texas Wine Specialist certification to gain more insight. Eager to begin this new journey, I contacted the Texas Wine School about taking the course, but due to an ongoing pandemic in-person classes were cancelled in early March and the start date for the course was postponed. So now we wait. Finally in July, they began offering webinar style courses for the certification. At the beginning of August, I officially passed my final exam and obtained my certification as a Texas Wine Specialist. Insert confetti and a round of applause.

In a short amount of time I learned a lot about the roots of Texas viticulture and why it's on the heels of its popular peers (California and Oregon) as the best wine growing region in the US. I'm sharing some of the cool facts and my must-have varietals from the great state in hopes that my fellow Black wine-o's will support the Texas wine industry and incorporate more Texas produced wine into their collections and daily drinking habits. (Trust, I won’t judge.)

As the old saying goes, “Everything is bigger and better in Texas. Wine is no exception. Texas is home to 8 unique AVA's. The largest is Texas Hill Country which is known as the wine tourism capital with over 9 million acres. It’s the second largest region in the US behind California’s Napa Valley and Sonoma. With hot and humid summers and mild rain Texas’ climate is suitable for growing grapes similar to France, Spain and Italy. Texas is actually larger than France, but their weather conditions are similar which produces quality Mediterranean grapes. Common varietals produced are Cabernet Sauvignon, Syrah, Malbec, Tempranillo, Tannat, Black Spanish, Viognier, Mourvedre, Sangiovese, Trebbiano, and Vermentino. If you’re looking to expand your palate try one or all of these seven wines below from some of my favorite Texas winemakers.

Top 7 Texas Varietals to Take Home

William Chris Vineyards Mary Ruth 2019

Notes: Honeysuckle, white peach and lemon on the palate.

ABV: 11.4%

Pairing: Baked chicken thighs, Seafood with light cream sauces and shellfish entrees.

McPherson Cellars 2016 Vermentino (Currently on sale for $5 a bottle minimum order of 4qty.)

Notes: Medium acidity, but balanced with subtle citrus notes and an almond finish.

ABV: 12.8%

Pairing: Salmon, Red snapper, oysters, pork tenderloin

Becker Vineyards 2017 Viognier

Notes: Hint of lemon or citrus on the nose and tropical fruits on the palate

ABV: 14.2%

Pairing: Shellfish entrees, fresh salads, roasted veggies

William Chris Vineyards Mourvedre 2017 Timmons Estate

Notes: Dark cherry and plums

ABV: 13.6%

Pairing: Grilled burgers, TX BBQ and pizza

Llano Estacado Chenin Blanc NV

Notes: Subtle sweetness, aromatic pear and citrus on the nose

ABV: 12%

Pairing: Spicy seafood or Thai dishes or a Taco Tuesday feast.

Bingham Vineyards Roussane 2018

Notes: Full bodied white wine with a floral and herbaceous aroma

ABV: 13.8%

Pairing: Carbonara, Pork, Gouda and Manchego cheeses

Fall Creek Vineyards 2014 GSM

Notes: A rich baddie blend of 21% Grenache, 48% Syrah and 31% Mourvedre

ABV: 14%

Pairing: Pork Tenderloin, Lamb Chops and tomato-based pasta dishes

Winederlust: Post Quarantine Travel Bucket List

April 08, 2020 by Monica Jones in tours, events, pairings, winederlust, travel, wine

When we first began 2020, I had high hopes of knocking a few destinations off my travel bucket list. Some of my most recent trips were inspired by my adoration of wine and the discovery of their regions of origin. In the wake of a global pandemic it has almost made it impossible to think about traveling without some form of anxiety arising. The truth is, we still don't know what the long-term impact Covid-19 will have on tourism. Our new normal, while temporary has basically stolen much of our optimism during this time. Honestly, I have been so focused on preserving my mental health that i've neglected blogging about wine, but somehow have managed to drink a ridiculous amount as I accept this new reality. However, this is my attempt to build a greater sense of connectedness through wine and exploration. A new survey suggests travel will make a comeback. More than half of Americans (58%) are planning to travel between May and September 2020, as long as their destinations aren't in quarantine, according to a survey conducted by Luggage Hero. So if you're apart of the 58% of YOLO Americans planning to pack their bags post shelter-at-home, we've compiled a list of seven boozy vacation hotspots-- and a few bomb wine events worth adding to your own bucket list. These destinations maybe familiar and already on your radar or maybe something that you've overlooked, but either way sure to cure your cabin fever.

Los Angeles- The most popular wine regions in the USA are notably just hours away from this Southern Californian staple. For the past 10 years the French champagne house, Veuvue Cliquot has hosted its polo classic match for a host of celebrities, bubbly lovers and I would only assume polo sports fans at Will Rogers State Park. Thousands of fashionable people gather on the lawn with their glasses held high and full of champagne. Annually, this event takes place in the fall so you still have time to plan ahead. The weather will be perfect in October to enjoy the entertainment, Instagram backdrops and champagne by the glass or bottle.

Mexico- Mexico is a nonconventional wine region that continues to make it's presence felt in the conversation of world-class wines. Just two hours south of San Diego, the Valle of Guadalupe has become one of the countries biggest tourist attractions. The breathtaking grassy vineyards stretch far beyond the border and down a trail to home of over 100 wineries. The weekend long Valle Food and Wine Festival kicks off in early October, which affords wine-o's an opportunity to try Nebbiolo or Colombard grapes popular within the region. Known as the less pretentious version of Napa Valley, Valle de Guadalupe is also home to a few award winning chefs to satisfy the foodie in you. Be sure to leave room on your itinerary for a stop in neighboring valleys of Calafia and San Antonia de las Minas.

South Africa- I remember having the pleasure of briefly learning about the South African wine industry from Tukwini Mandela, co-owner and winemaker of House of Mandela through a privileged interview with Houston Style Magazine. With history dating back to over 350 years, I became enamored with the culture of winemaking in South Africa. Insert, Soweto Wine & Lifestyle Festival, a 2-day wine fest of the ages in Johannesburg, which takes place annually each September. Winemakers from Cape Town and beyond descend on the city to showcase the best South African wines. Taste more than 1,000 award-winning wines during this fete fit for the advanced wine-o.

Oregon- After I became serious about wine education this state moved to the top of my "places to visit'‘ list. While Oregon is home to five appellations, the most popular in the Williamvette Valley, is known for its world-renowned Pinot Noir that rivals the Burgundy wines of France. Visit the vines at the most respected and oldest winery, at Hillcrest Vineyard who prides itself on its use of traditional techniques of the old world. Luckily, Portland has mild rains and weather through early fall to take advantage of your time spent here.

Texas Hill Country- This oasis in the rolling hills is just short from the capital city of Austin. In recent years, Texas Hill Country has made a name for itself as a leading producer of quality wines in the United States. With more than 50 wineries along the 290 wine trail this destination serves as a serene escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. Tucked away along winding roads and step hills you'll find a variety of traditional, fortified and natural wines to tickle your palate. Sunny and warm climates throughout the year make this destination, a no-brainer. Most notable cities include Fredericksburg, Wimberley and Dripping Springs.

Virginia- October is reserved as Virginia Wine Month, and welcomes visitors from all across the country who appreciate generations of old world winemaking techniques. Virginia is known for its fertile soil and mild climates which produce aromatic and balanced wines. Grape varietals of Cabernet Franc, Viognier and Petit Verdot are prominent throughout the Shenandoah Valley and beyond. Winemakers continue to mix the old with the new as they revolutionize standards for well-made wine. Just a hop, skip and a jump away from metropolitan cities like D.C. and Baltimore, you can extend your weekend travels to tour the more than 300 wineries within the state.

New Mexico- With five wine regions, New Mexico is home to one of our favorite sparkling Rose wines at Gruet Winery, a family-owned winery which has been producing well-made wines for more than 25 years. Land in Albuquerque and sip wines from one of the oldest wine growing regions in the country. New Mexico isn’t your ideal wine destination, but has over 50 wineries and tasting rooms to taste the deep reds and sweet blends grown right from the New Mexican soil.