When referencing Texas wine, a lot is written about the red wines of Texas and the varieties vintners have found do well in the state, like Sangiovese and Tempranillo. But, we also great some great white varieties like lovely floral and stone fruit filled Viognier and Roussanne, crisp and lively Vermentino, citrus filled Albarino and over a dozen more. Here are a few to consider as we wrap up Texas wine month, a few of which were sent for editorial consideration.
Duchman Family Winery Vermentino, possibly the first Texas wine I truly loved, and a white wine at that. Aromatic, light bodied and quite refreshing, this is the perfect white wine for Texas (especially during the summertime.) Filled with juicy apple, citrus and crushed stone notes the balanced, acidic wine is an easy go to, especially if you are a Sauvignon Blanc fan. Available at Spec’s, $15.
The Texas High Plains is home to Bingham Vineyards, a key place for Pedernales Cellars. They supply the fruit for many of the wineries special wines, including their slightly spicy, juicy and crisp Viognier. Layered with crisp Granny Smith apple, tropical guava and papaya and a touch of honeysuckle, melding into lemon custard and honey on the back palate. $17, available at Pogo’s.
Pedernales Cellars also recently introduced their sister winery, Armadillo’s Leap, including a fruit forward, fun sparkler made from 100% Muscat fruit, Armadillo’s Leap Yaaas! Candied lemon drops, spicy candied ginger and sweet honey fill the uncomplicated sparkling wine. THe wine was just released this month, available via contacting the winery.
I do find that more non-traditional varieties, like Sangiovese and Vermentino, do well in our Texas terroir. However, Fall Creek Vineyards has been producing international variety wines, like Cabernet Sauvignon and Chardonnay, well for over 40 years. Their Fall Creek Vintner’s Selection Chardonnay is a great winter white as it is rich, with more body and texture than many white wines made in Texas, while maintaining nice acidity and freshness. $22, available via the winery.
Northwest Spain shines with stellar Albarino wines from Rias Baixas, but Texas is getting into the mix as well, especially with wines coming from Texas High Plains vineyards. Wedding Oak Winery produces a slightly off-dry Albarino filled with white flowers, juicy lemon and pink grapefruit, with a slight herbal note on the finish making it a lovely food wine. $27, via their winery.
Brennan Vineyards Lily tastes like it’s name, fresh white lily flowers in a glass. Made from a blend of Muscat of Alexandria, Roussanne and Vigonier, the off-dry wine is filled with stone fruit flavors, like white peach and apricot, white flowers and fresh orchard fruit. $17.50, available at Spec’s.
Charming, funny and passionate Kim McPherson of McPherson Cellars, is dedicated to making high quality wine in Texas from Texas grapes. He also gives tip of the hat and honor to his father, Doc McPherson, a Texas wine pioneer who was the first to plant Sangiovese vines in Texas soils. Though the variety continues to be a favorite of the winery. They also make a lovely McPherson Cellars Roussanne which thrives in the iron rich soils of the Texas High Plains creating a floral and slightly herbaceous wine with layers of citrus, herbal tea and stone fruit.
