We give a lot of props to the TEXSOM conference, and we should. It is the only one of its kind in the country bringing brilliant wine minds together for a few days of teaching, drinking, learning and laughing, all while some of our finest Sommeliers in the state compete to see who is the best.
In addition to the fun, the conference (which is open every year to anyone who has an interest in wine not just those in the wine trade) ends their events with the International Grand Tasting and Best Sommelier in Texas Awards Ceremony. Nancy noted earlier that the winner for the best Som in Texas went to the talented Ryan Tedder. His announcement came about a hour into this grand tasting last night, and grand it was.
Held annually at The Four Seasons Resort and Club, Dallas at Las Colinas this grand tasting includes incredible wines from around the world. Winemakers and representatives know they have an attentive and eager crowd of Sommeliers from across the state and country in attendance so they bring out their best, including some favorites from last night – Revana Cabernet Sauvignon, Miner Oracle and Miner Wild Yeast Chardonnay, Newton Unfiltered Chardonnay, Cheval des Andes Mendoza, Ehlers 1886 Cabernet Sauvignon, Hanzell Ambassador’s 1953 Vineyard Chardonnay, Santi Amarone della Valpolicella, Treana Red, Brokenwood Oakey Creek Vineyards Semillion, Alexana Pinot Noir, Nicolas Feuillatte Palmes d’Or, and a few Texas selections from Duchman and Cap-Rock, including the stellar Duchman Vermentino and Trebbiano from the Texas High Plains.
The tasting is fast, only about an hour and a half, but well worth every minute as this much quality paired with delicious bites from execuchef Christof Syre of The Four Seasons is hard to beat, especially on a Monday night.
Mark your calendars now to attend next year – and keep an eye out for when tickets go on sale as every event, including the grand tasting sold out this year.
TEXSOM 2013 will take place August 11-12, 2013.
