A Rosé Soiree the La Fête Way

Set sail with me to the isle of St. Tropez as we kickoff another rosé all day season. I was first introduced to this brand during the height of the pandemic. With over a decade of experience in the wine industry, Donae Burston, owner of La Fête du Rosé, a black-owned wine brand created out of the necessity for representation within an industry that far too often overlooks black wine enthusiasts. The truth is, Black Americans can reshape certain markets with their buying power, if brands understood our value as consumers. With a passion for well-made wines and travel, the Baltimore native inked a partnership with Domaine Bertaud Belieu, a more than 65 acre vineyard located in the heart of the French Riveria in Saint Tropez. St. Tropez has been a dream destination of mine since It became the vacation hotspot for the hip-hop culture. The region Cotes de Provence, infamously known for its luscious Rosé wines is actually known for a variety of grape varietals from Grenache to Mourvèdre (reds) and Bourboulenc to Semillion (whites). The soil, climate and notable winemaking traditions make Southeastern France the destination for top-notch rosé wines. In celebration of National Rose Day we’re hosting a cocktail party #TheLaFeteWay at Trez Wine Bar & Bistro.

XoXo Day Wine Guide: Top Wine Gift Ideas

This is strictly for the lovers… the wine lovers that is. Here are the top picks to wine and dine yourself or the wineo in your life this Valentine’s Day.

Belle Glos Pinot Noir, 2020 Las Alturas

Not your typical Pinot. Perfect for novice enthusiasts. Pairs well with Anita Baker's Rapture.

The Prisoner Thorn, Napa Valley

For the silky red wine lovers. Mature paletes. Pairs well with Ari Lennox's a/s/l.

Bending Branch Frizzante Rosé

100% Texas Tannat sparkling diva. Pairs well with Frank Ocean's Channel Orange.

Becker Vineyards Barbera,Tallent Vineyards

Rated Top Texas wine by RodeoHouston 2023. Pairs well with Maxwell's Urban Hang Suite.

House of Brown, Red Blend

Unwind with this luxurious Napa Valley red. Pairs well with Dru Hill's debut album.

The Heart & Soul of Paso: 7 Reasons to Vist Paso Robles

As I continue to press foward immersing myself within the wine industry, I’m grateful for opportunities that align to practice and study my craft. As a Root Fund scholar, myself and four of my cohorts- Nadia Mincey (@nadwines), Natasha Lorick (@cultureandvine), Nikki Handy (@shonise_photographs_and_sips) and Laura Naverette (@laura89n) were recently selected to participate in an enrichment trip to Paso Robles, CA hosted by the Paso Wine Alliance. Paso Robles is home to world-class wineries and humble winemakers who want to share a peace of Paso with all that dare to descend on Napa Valley's charming counterpart. Located at the halfway mark between both Los Angeles and San Francisco, Paso is ideal for a road trip or weekend getaway. Unique to its terrior is the calcareous limestone soil which helps retain water ideal for grape growing. Its comprised of a ridgeline that calms the sun beaming upon the vineyards with a lively breeze.

Photo credit Paso Wine Alliance

Treasured old vines are nurtured and remain to preserve the traditions of the past. The leaders of Paso are the driving force behind the sustainability movement in SLO CAL (San Luis Obispo County). While many wine regions across the U.S. are slow to implement responsibility practices, wineries like Tablas Creek have become the benchmark for ROC (Regenerative Organic Certification) and Biodynamic certification. With over 200 wineries and tasting rooms, winemakers continue to shape the future of the region by championing diversity and through a sense of community, sustainability practices and award-winning wines. Here are seven reasons to make Paso Robles your next wine tourism destination.

Booker Vineyards- provides a luxurious ambiance for those looking for a Napaesque experience. Booker's design elements are sophisticated and plush, with each room intentionally decorated to highlight the elegance that's found within their portfolio. You can expect five-star customer service and unique amenities that are far from ordinary and leave a lasting impression.

CASS Winery- Cass brings the wine and the fun with the addition of Camp Cass. Cass invites guests to unleash their inner child with thoughtfully curated experiences that aim to be theraputic, adventurous and educational. From sunset horseback rides, archery to photography workshops, cooking classes and demos, and custom wine-blending sessions. The activities are endless. Warning, you just may never want to leave. (The Geneseo Inn- the cutest tiny homes onsite are available for guests looking for accomodations.)

Tooth & Nail Wine Company- Is a castlelike venue where all the cool kids dwell. Tooth & Nail is known for hip and funky blends of true Rhone reds to suit your palate. Tooth & Nail masterfully blends the art of food & wine with simple yet elevated culinary fare that complements each of their distinctive varietals. Dine in during a tasting, stop in for Sunday brunch or one of their member only events for the carnitas tacos, brussel sprouts and artichoke dip. This winery is perfect for large groups and special occasions.

Downtown Paso- A charming centerpiece that is the hub for many tasting rooms, restaurants and quaint shops unique to Paso. Visit the tasting rooms of Copia Vineyards, LXV Wines or the Black-owned winery in Indigene Cellars. Plant yourself under the trees that line the park to learn more about Paso's history or to enjoy a picnic in the park. Consider stopping by the newly opened Libretto Jazz Club which features an array of Classical and Jazz musicians in rotation.

Turley Vineyards- Head down to Turley to truly see just how special the landscape of Paso is. The winemakers at Turley believe in preserving the land and old vines which are organically farmed and some as old as 100 years. Turley produces over 47 wines, so there's something for everyone especially those who lover and old vine Zinfadels.

Turley Vineyards Tasting Room Manager, Malani Anderson and the Rooted in Paso scholars.

Justin Vineyards-Reigning as one of Paso's most notable brands Justin Vineyard's estate offers stunning views of the vineyards, a full restaurant, and the JUST Inn, a 3-suite hotel cozy enough for an overnight stay. Known for bold and rich reds the Isosceles Cabernet Sauvignon is mouthwatering and one od the stars of their portfolio. Combining Old World methodology with new world technology, Justin continues to attract enthusiasts who fancy quality wines and exclusive experiences.

DAOU Vineyards- Cherish the views and ocean breeze courtesy of the Templeton Gap at one of the highest points in Paso. DAOU prides itself on positive experiences rooted in kindness and hospitality. Executive Chef, Elaine prepares some of the tastiest Lebanese inspired cuisine to pair with each of DAOU’s wines. It's also the winery for those seeking a brush with fame as there is always an occasional celebrity sighting. Even the Director of Hospitality, Marino Monferrato is infamous for his role as the current Maître d'hôtel of the popular show Hell’s Kitchen.

The Key to Summer Sippin': William Chris Vineyards

It has been months of quarantine for many of us, but summer fun and sippin' doesn't have to be cancelled. We've got the key to enjoying a cool summer at-home with William Chris Vineyards' Skeleton Key, Proprietors White 2019. A decade ago, when owners Bill and Chris began their journey in the heart of Texas Hill Country, they found a skeleton key on the estate of soon-to-be William Chris Vineyards which they say unlocked their passion for Texas winemaking. Fast forward to today, and the widely popular Texas vineyard is producing world-class wine. The vineyard is mostly known for an impressive lineup of red wines made from grapes in West Texas and Hill Country. The Skeleton Key white varietal is easily one of the least intimidating wines from the brand.

The Skeleton Key 2019 Proprietors White, young in vintage, is blended perfectly to achieve a natural acidicity. William Chris has been perfecting this varietal for years relying on a blend of grapes that grow exceptionally well in the humid and summer Texas heat. Aged in French oak barrels the Rousanne grape originally from the Rhone Valley, used as a base, produces an aromatic wine. The skins create a beautiful golden amber hue that shines bright like a sunny afternoon in the city. I appreciate easy-drinking wines like the Skeleton Key, because it reminds you that wine doesn't have to be intimidating to enjoy. On the nose a scent of goldenberry, green tea and sweet pineapple. I even taste some citrus on the finish. This is a wine that will appeal to any wine-o, especially one with a white wine preference. It's fresh, beautiful and ready to enjoy for any occasion.

How to Enjoy: Chilled, enjoyed at sunset in the backyard, with friends or poolside. I personally paired this blend with a shrimp ceasar salad for dinner one evening, but I think it would be good with a cream-based pasta or grilled chicken and veggies. I mostly prefer lighter dishes that compliment the healthy bit of sweetness in the wine. This is a refreshing wine meant to be consumed during any celebration. It’s desirable to cool off after a long day hanging out in the sun.

Where to Find: William Chris wines are available in some area HEB stores and higher end grocery retailers like Whole Foods and Central Market here in Texas, or you can purchase a bottle or two on www.williamchriswines.com; $20.

RodeoHouston: 7 Wines to Sip in the 2020 Champion Wine Garden

Howdy ya’ll, it’s Rodeo Houston season.

The Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo™ is finally here, and The Black Wine-O had the pleasure of attending the Rodeo Uncorked RoundUp & Best Bites Competition last week to kickoff the 2020 season. I must say I’ve never been to an event of this magnitude where the focus was solely wine, it was overwhelmingly grand in the best way. Of course, Texas does everything BIGGER, and this gourmet pairing event is a perfect example. There was over 100 local participating restaurants paired with over 400 hundred award winning wines. In fact, the Rodeo Uncorked International Wine Competition, held last November, received 3,528 entries from 19 countries around the world. This year’s featured wine region is Mendoza, Argentina mostly known for producing Malbec, Chardonnay and Tempranillo.  If you’re planning on attending the Houston Rodeo this year, don’t fret you’ll still have an opportunity to sample some amazing wines from this year’s winner circle. Rodeo visitors head over to the 2020 Champion Wine Garden, located adjacent to NRG in the Carruth Plaza, for an opportunity to relax and sample varietals that won Class and Reserve Class Champion honors. The best part, revenue from the wine garden is used to support the organization’s scholarship program. This garden oasis features over 70 wines and is worth the trek from the Rodeo happenings for a quick wine down. If your tradition of attending the Rodeo includes a group of friends or fam, enhance the experience by reserving a table as low as $50 (Monday-Thursday) and $75 (Saturday-Sunday) to host a wine social. Tables for two can even be reserved HERE if you want to plan the perfect date night before crooning alongside Khalid or tossing your hair to Lizzo. Sip by the glass or grab a bottle, and enjoy the serene setting including live music, Texas sized Western art sculptures, wine education seminars, complimentary tastings and winemakers from all across the globe. Here are our picks for the top 7 wines to sip in the 2020 Champion Wine Garden.

Karen Warren/Houston Chronicle

• Gruet Sauvage Rose', American NV

• Bingham Family Vineyards Dugout Red, Texas High Plains

• Josh Cellars Reserve Chardonnay, Sonoma County 2018

• Fleur de Mer Rose', Cotes de Provence AOP 2018

• Becker Vineyards Iconoclast Cabernet Sauvignon Barrel Select, Texas 2017

• Piper Heidsieck Brut,Champagne NV * Grand Champion Best of Show

• Catena Zapata Malbec, High Mountain Vines Mendoza 2017 ($88 Bottle)

7 Places to Celebrate Galentine's Day

Ladies, leave your man at home. The club is full of bottles and the vintage is full grown, or whatever Destiny’s Child said. Annually, February rolls around and we’re all so consumed by the exaggerated display of love from a significant other that we tend to forget that the love we hold for self, family and friends are equally important.  In recent years, Galentine’s Day (February 13th) has served as the perfect alternative for single women to celebrate the romantic holiday. We’ve compiled a list of seven Black Wine-O approved places to celebrate with your girl tribe this Valentine’s Day.

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Munity Room Wine- This notably new Heights fixture is thoughtfully curated with Napa Valley as its design inspiration. This upscale boutique wine room is the perfect backdrop for all of your Instagram worthy pics.-1124 Usener St

ErmaRose Winery- This black and family-owned winery is located in Katy, TX, and known for their fruit forward wines that are produced from banana, mango, quadberry and blueberry. They’ll be hosting a 4-course wine pairing dinner on Valentine’s Day to wind down with your fellow wine-o’s.- 3130 Katy Hockley Cut Off Road

Flora Culture- This isn’t your average flower shop. Flora Culture prides themselves on being a space for both novice and expert green thumbs. Step inside this botanical oasis to create your own floral arrangements and sip at their upcoming Galentine’s Day workshop. -3100 Chimney Rock A4

13 Celsius- One of my favorite wine bars in the city. Cozy enough for a date night, but even better to chill with your girls and learn more about their list of wines through their wine education events. -3000 Caroline

UnWine- This black-owned wine bar located in the heart of Third Ward is a hidden gem and home to a variety of handpicked Bordeauxs, Blends and S. African wines. Move the party upstairs to the rooftop patio and bar if the weather permits.  -4420 Almeda Rd.

The UrbanWaxer Boutique- UrbanWaxer Boutique and Chapter38 Wines have teamed up for a singles mixer including complimentary wax services and wine tastings. Attendees will be able to sample their new signature wines that include an Ethiopian pear and their infused Citrus Sauvignon Blanc this V-Day. -1000 Cypress Creek Pkwy

Sweet Bribery- This quaint ice cream shop nested in the Heights serves up adult sips and artisanal sweet treats. Treat your favorite girls to a champagne float with Moet champagne, sorbet and fresh fruit.- 250 West 19th St

A Napa New Year: Girlfriends Getaway

For many years Napa Valley has attracted the affluent, famous, and curious to its luxe lifestyle of world-class wines, upscale tasting rooms and breathtaking mountainous views. With close to 500 registered wineries in the infamous California region, Napa Valley is home to the largest wine region in the US. While most recommend visiting Napa Valley during the harvest season (August through Oct) we decided to voyage to the California wine region on the best holiday of the year, New Year's Eve. As it continues to thrive as the quintessential destination for wine lovers, we rang in the new year with an epic "Girlfriend Getaway" in Napa.

Black Wine-O’s: The Black Wine-O, Brittany Rodgers, Waverly Coleman and Catherine Hooper

The Wine-

Napa is mostly known for producing bold red grapes of Cabernet Sauvignon. Most of the wineries we visited were Cab Sauv dominant, even in the blends. The terrior of the Napa Valley is the foundation for some of the best quality wines in the world. The volcanic soil and warm climate in the region are perfect for grape growing. We had a chance to visit four wineries during our stay thanks to my girlfriend, Waverly Coleman, a Special Event and Wedding Planner who arranged most of our tours and tastings. Our first stop was at Chimney Rock Winery, we had a flight of four of their top wines which included my personal favorite the Elevage Blanc for $50 per person. After having a full fashion photoshoot in the garden of Chimney Rock, we were off to our next destination at the Brown Estate.

Tasting @ Brown Estate

I was eager to arrive at our tasting at Brown Estate because it's notably the first and only, black owned winery in Napa Valley. The tasting at Brown Estate was exceptional, from the wine, level of service to their sleek interior which resembled a cozy living room. We had a chance to indulge in four of their best sellers from the Intro Flight which was moderately priced at $40. This flight included a 2018 Duppy Conqueror Rose', 2018 Betelgeuse Sauvignon Blanc, 2017 Napa Valley Zinfadel and a 2017 Chaos Theory Proprietary Red Blend. Red wine lovers would appreciate the pure Zinfadel, I fell in love with it and had to talk myself out of buying a bottle. The warmth of the tasting room and the homages to hip-hop culture throughout the space make this an unforgettable experience.

The next day we had a chance to tour and taste at the enchanting V. Sautti Winery. This award winning winery has plenty of bragging rights as it’s been named the "Best Winery" three years in a row. The 38-acre property was magical and felt like we had been transported to a vineyard in Venice.

We also had a chance to visit Domaine Carneros, the French inspired chateau mostly known for its sparklings. Unfortunately, we didn't have reservations, however we finessed our way into a tasting to enjoy the most popular flight for $35. The flight included the 2014 Ultra Brut, 2014 Estate Brut Cuvee, 2016 Brut Rose and the 2014 Vermeil Demi-Sec. Each pour was better than the last plus we got a chance to sample the Blanc de Noir made from 100% Pinot Noir grapes.

A spread of Domaine Carneros Champagne Flight Tasting

Napa Valley Marriott- Double Standard Room

The Stay- We chose to fly into San Francisco, which is about a 90 minute drive away from Napa Valley down Interstate 80. The drive from the airport was pretty serene and a straight shot to the valley as we passed over the Bay Bridge. Initially, when planning this trip we couldn’t decide if we wanted to stay in Napa, but i'm glad we did as most of the wineries were close in proximity with the exception of a few within driving distance. We stayed at the Napa Valley Marriott Hotel & Spa, where we had a comfortable room enough to fit our group of four. I loved this hotel because of its central location, and the resort style amenities like the daily Vintner's Pour (HH) and access to the spa's eucalyptus steam room. The spa is a great way to unwind and relax with your girlfriends. Fun fact: Our hotel is also the host hotel for the Oakland Raiders training camp.

The Extras- Visiting Napa Valley during the peak season can be pretty tricky as most of the wineries require reservations and tend to fill up pretty quickly. Then there’s that whole issue where most of the wineries are actually closed during the holiday season. So you must plan accordingly if you want to make the most out of your visit to Napa. We ended up randomly going to a NYE party at the Andaz Hotel to say goodbye to 2019, without pre-booked tickets our options to party were very limited. You can honestly eat your way through Napa with a variety of upscale dining options. Be sure to make stops in Yountville for brunch and dinner as it's referred to as the most "Foodie Town" in America. However, if you're looking for an affordable and casual dining experience, don't miss the opportunity to stop by Gott's Roadside, a Napa staple since 1999. This isn't your ordinary burger joint, as its menu even has something for your friends who never pass up an opportunity to remind you that they’re vegan. If you're getting tired of wine tasting-said no one ever, stop by the Archer Hotel for elevated bar bites, creative cocktails and panoramic views of the city from the rooftop bar, Sky & Vine. Shopping in downtown Napa is also a great way to sober up or take a break from wine tasting. First St. was filled with quirky shops, art galleries and fashion boutiques for some non-alcoholic fun.

I can't think of a better way to kick off the new year than with a new experience alongside my fellow black wine-o's. Napa provided all of the rich bitch energy I vow to uphold in 2020. I can't wait to return and explore more of this region, but hopefully these suggestions help you, if you're considering visiting Napa Valley, in the meantime.

Vino in the City: Top 7 Wine Bars in Houston Right Now

Houston, we have a problem. It’s debatable, but having a copious amount of wine bars to sip at seems like a good problem to have. Houston continues to offer wine-o’s alike a host of neighborhood wine bars to enjoy a great glass of wine without having to break the bank. These 7 Houston wine bars are serving up the city's best vino right now. Honorable mention goes to Sixty Vines which we had a chance to preview last month catch our recap HERE.

Postino Montrose- After descending in Houston just a little over a year ago this wine café’ has doubled the size of its new location in Montrose. Postino’s approachable wines, make it the perfect atmosphere for a happy hour hangout with wines starting at $5 daily from 11am-5pm. Fans of the Heights location will be pleased to know not much has changed at the new location. 805 Pacific St, HTX 77006

Photo Credit: Postino

Penny Quarter-This cozy and hip two-story café and wine concept is the current hot spot in the Montrose neighborhood. Boasting a full menu of coffee, wine, food and pastries you can’t go wrong with making this your new brunch destination or meeting location. The alluring interior and natural lighting creates a relaxing ambiance that transports you from the H right into the streets of SoHo. Bottles prices are on the higher end, however their selection rivals some of Houston’s most notable wine bars. 1424 Westheimer Rd, HTX 77006

Photo Credit Penny Quarter

Trez Art + Wine Bar- You may not recognize this new wine bar since its facelift. Formerly, Ogun Wine Bar this laid back black-owned wine bar and art haven is located near Houston’s first ward. On Wine Wednesday’s you can nosh on pizza and a bottle of wine for only $20. Trez also has a daily happy hour from 4-7pm and will serve as the host of our first intimate experience, Winesgiving. 920 Studemont Suite #150 HTX, 77007

Light Years Natural Wine Shop + Bar- This natural wine destination allows you to sip responsibly and sustainably. A naturals-only wine bar is the first of its kind in Houston. The process relies on a natural fermentation allowing the character of the grapes to be on full display. Light Years is clearly ahead of the pack, as natural and organic wines are being embraced all over the world. 1304 W. Alabama HTX 77006

Noble Rot Wine Bar- This hidden gem is tucked away in Downtown’s Conservatory. Offering up various flights for as low as $7, you can try several of their Wines by the Glass. The winetenders are very knowledgeable and help guide you to a selection that’s affordable and worth a 9 oz. pour. It’s also pretty hard to pass up their $1 champagne shots, which you can get anytime of the day.

1010 Prairie St Suite 101, HTX 77002

Photo Credit Noble Riot

La Grand Rue- Right in the heart of the Heights, this newcomer is the brainchild of two friends who understand that the world of wine can often be intimidating. Grab a bottle in the boutique wine shop and sip it next door in the wine bar with friends. Swing by for happy hour when the glasses are all half off from 4-7 pm during the week. 1344 Yale, HTX 77008

Vinology- Dubbing themselves as Houston’s first true European style enoteca, Vinology is a wine shop, wine bar and educational venue for wine seminars. Vinology offers six weekly flights and carries over 300 wines from around the world. With more than 16 years in the wine industry these owners know a thing or two about quality vintages. 2314 Bissonnet St, HTX 77005

 Montrose Cheese & Wine- A new retail and wine shop in Montrose emphasizes a traditional Italian style wine experience. With over 125 wines and a rotation of up to 15 cheeses this concept will specialize in local and high quality bites with exceptional wines priced under $40. 1618 Westheimer Rd, HTX 77006

Photo Credit Julie Soefer

The Hidden Gems of Central Mexico: CDMX x San Miguel de Allende

San Miguel de Allende has been on my list of places to visit since it was first voted “Best City in the World” by Travel + Leisure back in 2017. After celebrating the new year solo in Mexico City back in 2017, I realized that it was a three hour trek away from the most central point of the country, and was determined to make the journey. I wouldn’t have this opportunity again until this October as my birthday month served as the perfect opportunity for a new adventure. Typically when I travel solo I immerse myself in an authentic cultural experience. Fraternizing with the locals, dining at the best restaurants and visiting art museums that showcase the soul of the city. After doing my Googles, I discovered that San Miguel de Allende was the hidden gem of Mexico’s modern wine country. I honestly found it hard to believe that Mexico was the first place in North America where grapes were planted back in the 16th century. Today, many producers in Central Mexico rely on Spanish influences to bottle up their single varietal wines like Tempranillo, Cabernet Franc, Malbec, Chardonnay, and Semillon to name a few.

 CDMX-

After landing in Mexico City, I took my talents to La Condesa for a content shoot with Aldo Doring, of El Ojo de Dominga at the beautiful Casa Decu, a chic boutique hotel offering a mix of luxury and practicality in the epicenter of one of Mexico City’s best neighborhoods. Casa Decu’s Mexican art deco and vine-lined rooftop served as the backdrop for the shoot I’ve been wanting to pull off ever since I launched theblackwineo.com. Working with Aldo was such a pleasure, as much of our interaction beforehand took place through email or WhatsApp. Naturally, I worked up an appetite after our shoot, and Aldo was kind enough to drop me off at nearby Osteria 8, an Italian restaurant ducked off in Colonia Condesa. For dinner I enjoyed a simple caesar salad and Spaghetti Carbonara paired with two glasses of their house Rose’. It wasn’t long before the hand-rolled pasta gave me the itis. After a few more sips of wine, sleep won.

The Black WIne-O @ Casa Decu, Colonia Condesa, CDMX

SMA-

The three hour journey to San Miguel was peaceful. I slept most of the trip as Primera Plus offered a luxury coach bus experience from Terminal Norte directly to San Miguel de Allende. Upon arrival, I could tell that this city was charming, and I was eager to explore everything it had to offer. My first stop was to check-in at the Jewels of San Miguel. Nestled, near the highest point of the city- El Mirador, my casita was a beautiful home away from home with an incredible view. Now on to the important stuff like wine—After getting lost a few times due to communication barriers with my taxi driver I arrived at Bodega Dos Buhos Winery for a tasting.

Bodega Dos Buhos

Bodega Dos Buhos - This small batch winery sits on three acres of family owned land which produces 10 varietals that include Cabernet Sauvignon, Tempranillo, Moscato, Sauvignon Blanc, Agilianico. Cabernet Franc, and Giallo. After learning more about the history of their wine from Maria, I began to admire their respect and love for winemaking. They produce certified organic wines using natural fermentation and produce different styles of wines in limited editions. I indulged in three of their current wines and their dessert wine- Moscato Giallo for my tasting paired with a cheese board. The vineyard produces around 9,000 bottles annually, at the moment, the only place where you can get their wines is directly at the winery, local shops and the infamous Pujol restaurant in Mexico, City. The “Two Owls” vineyard also doubles as an event space for special occasions and corporate events.

Tub pictured was used for grape stomping during the first harvest in 2006.

Cuna De Tierra- About 30 minutes away from SMA is the city of Dolores Hidalgo, and where I ventured to indulge in more wine at the massive vineyards of Cuna de Tierra. With over 30 acres this international winemaker produces six red wines and one white. The first commercial wines were produced in 2008, but they are currently introducing new grape varieties, among which are Portuguese, Italian and French, with the intention of evaluating those that best adapt to the terroir. I chose to pass on the Spanish-only tour of the vineyard by tractor and went straight in for my reserved tasting. For $500MXN I was able to taste three wines and a charcuterie board complete with meat and cheese. The winetender was knowledgeable about the history of the wine and was attentive as I soaked in as much as I could about the winemaking production. Cuna de Tierra has won numerous awards for its wine, and the design of the independent structures that house the wine. Designed by the architects Ignacio Urquiza Seoane and Bernardo Quinzaños Oriahe, the building honors the history and land that has allowed the conception of the various vine varieties that surround it. Cuna de Tierra is Winederlust approved.

Cuna de Tierra

It's Texas Wine Month Ya'll!

Annually, October is reserved to highlight the best of the best in Texas wines. Winemakers and wineries in the state of Texas typically celebrate this month by hosting special events and partnering with other Hill Country wineries along the Texas Wine Trail. The Texas Wine Month Passport tour is a self-guided tour which allows patrons to discover what the great state has to offer with 48 participating wineries. So you’ve been thinking about visiting a winery, right? This is your opportunity to get the most bang for your buck as your wine passport is good all month long. You’ll have 31 days to explore the vines and tasting rooms of some of Texas’ most notable wineries. Tickets for an individual are $65 and $95 for a couple; your tasting passport includes a full complimentary tasting at each winery (limit 4 wineries a day) tracked with your Tasting Passport and a 15% discount on 3-bottle purchases from each winery. But, hurry fast as tickets typically sell out in advance. 

October is also nationally known as Breast Cancer Awareness month and the THCW will be donating $5.00 from every ticket sale to the Susan G. Komen Foundation. This is great way to sip guiltless all 31 days. So how does a wine-o pick which of the 48 wineries to visit along the trail? All of them duh! No seriously, if you’re able to spend each weekend of the month exploring Hill Country, we salute you! If not we’ve narrowed down our top 10 wineries to get your sip and swirl on this October.

Fall Creek Vineyards

Lost Draw Cellars

Becker Vineyards

4.0 Cellars

Grape Creek Vineyards

Wimberley Valley Winery

William Chris Vineyards

Pedernales

Kulhman Cellars

Messina Hof Hill Country

 Click here to get your Texas Wine Month Passport