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Texas Wine Report From The Texas Wine Chick

By Nancy Nichols |
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Dishers, Texas Wine Month starts tomorrow. And Lisa, one of our loyal readers, is so excited about it she wants to offer up some suggestions. So without further ado, here is our Texas Wine Chick, Lisa:

As Miss Nancy first reported here , October is Texas Wine Month.  At the stroke of midnight tonight, happy girls and boys throughout the city will sing “Deep in the Heart of Texas”, while corks pop and wine flows into goblets and flutes and tumblers, everyone taking a celebratory sip to ring in the happiest month of the year–well, maybe that’ll just be at my house.

You see, I’m a huge fan of Texas wine.  First and foremost, I love it because it’s good. And in many cases, it’s great.  Texas wines are winning awards left and right, and our state’s wine industry is in the midst of quite a boom.  Lone Star wine is also local – yet another reason to fall in love. When you choose Texan, you’re supporting a Texas business, a Texas farm, or both.  I mean, I like a good farm stand as much as the next gal, but a basket of veggies doesn’t get me half as excited as a great bottle of wine.

So, to celebrate October, I’ve listed four excellent Texas selections below.  All are readily available in Dallas, and all will run you less than $20.   If you’re into adding noisemakers, streamers or fireworks to the celebration, you’re on your own.Becker Iconoclast Cabernet Sauvignon (2006)

You can’t miss this distinctive bottle, featuring a self-portrait by artist Tony Bell, a dear friend of Dr. Richard Becker.  Since 1992, Dr. Becker and his wife Bunny have built a reputation for excellence at Becker Vineyards, one of the premier wineries in the state.  It’s must-see destination, but if your next trip to the Hill Country is still a ways off, try picking up a bottle of this crowd-pleasing Cab for a taste of what the Beckers have to offer.  Bold but not overpowering, it pairs perfectly with grilled meats and a variety of hearty main dishes.

Find it:  At grocery and liquor stores throughout the city


Brennan Vineyards Viognier (various vintages available)

This relative newcomer to the Lone Star wine scene, tucked away in tiny Comanche, Texas, has a way with Viognier.  If you’ve not tried this distinctive varietal, known for its intoxicating floral aromas, Brennan’s would be an excellent place to start.  Viognier hails from the Rhône River valley in Southern France, but it’s a major up-and-comer here in Texas.  The winery’s 2006 vintage took the title of Top Texas Wine at the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo International Wine Competition.

Find it:  At Goody-Goody

Messina Hof Barrel Reserve Merlot (2005)

Trust me on this one:  Messina Hof Barrel Reserve Merlot may very well become your go-to red after just one sip.  This medium-bodied blend of Merlot (75%) and Cabernet Sauvignon (25%) is great for sipping – subtle oak and tannins keep it approachable (dare I say party-friendly?), without veering into one-note territory.  The winery’s tasting notes ascribe “berry aromas and silky smooth elegance” to this gem, and I must say I completely agree.

Find it:  At grocery and liquor stores throughout the city

Times Ten Cellars Rosé (2005)

Call this one the “bonus bottle”:  You’ll have to go straight to the source for this DMN Wine Competition medal-winner.  The good news?  Times Ten Cellars is right in your own back yard, or pretty darn close.   Head over to this stylish Lakewood spot to stock up, and while you’re there, take a moment to enjoy a glass at the bar or curled up in an armchair.  Owners Rob, Chris and Kert couldn’t be nicer, and I’ll bet you leave with plans to return very soon.


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