Wine Spotlight from New Braunfels Monthly
November 2018
By: Connor Brown
Now that its officially cold outside, some of us may be
feeling lost or even confused with these sub-80 degree temperatures. Sure, most
of us are prepared with some warm clothing or access to heat, but one of the
most effective ways to stay warm, is drinking red wine. No foolin’! While
alcohol in general will dilate blood vessels to increase blood flow and
ultimately heat you up, tannic acid and histamines from red wine pack in a few
extra degrees, which helps to explain why many Texans share an adversity towards
red wine in the summer. So, let’s take a look at a few wines from around the
world, and at home that myself and other Gruene locals have been waiting to
indulge in all year.
Pinot
Noir is one of the most popular varietals in the world, and is known for being
difficult to grow outside its key climate. Great U.S. Pinot Noir is often found
in the northwest regions of the country, with Oregon, and Washington being some
of the most popular areas. A local favorite Pinot Noir that exhibits some of
the varietals best characteristics, is the A to Z Pinot Noir from Oregon. This
wine carries wonderful dark cherry and raspberry notes that are well balanced
with light acidity and tannins to make this wine as smooth as velvet from start
to finish, making it a perfect easy going companion when trying to ease up on
the cold. It’s also neat that Gregg Popovich (Coach of the San Antonio Spurs)
is a partner of the winery!
Another
favorite for the season is a blend of three popular northern California
varietals. The Cleaver Red Blend from Amador County, California boasts a
trifecta of red Zinfandel, Petit Sirah, and Syrah. Individually, these
varietals have significant flavor differences. On the surface Zinfandel will
commonly offer more spicy, tangy, and fruity flavors, Petit Sirah will present
more bold fruit notes, weight, and texture, and Syrah will provide structure
and dynamic by being well balanced by nature. However, the harmony between
these varietals allow The Cleaver to sing lovely notes of dark cherry and vanilla
on the nose and palate, while following through with balanced acidity and a
nice spicy yet fruity finish. At nearly 15% alcohol, this wine is also very
pleasant for being a bit stronger, but is strong enough thaw a frozen Texan.
Last
but certainly not least, we’ll revisit a favorite from the Hill Country that
has been previously mentioned, but honestly not mentioned enough. Duchman
Aglianico of Driftwood, Texas is always a favorite for those visiting and those
who call Texas home. Aglianico is quite the uncommon grape that thrives in
environments like Texas, and is slowly becoming more popular at vineyards in
Texas, and around the world. Duchman does a fine job of balancing the flavors
of the notoriously hearty and tannic grape, while maintaining consistency
between vintages. This wine greets the palate with bright cherry and red fruit
notes while being carried by a subtle minerality before transforming into a
zesty, balanced and oaky finish. While this wine is quite dry, it awakens the
palate and leaves the drinker in desire for more, until it’s simply not-so-cold
anymore.
So,
with a whole world of wine available to us, and as we adjust to the cold for a
few months, just remember to take advantage of this season in more ways than
wine. Be sure to try some of the great wine mentioned above with your favorite
winos down the street from the Hall, we always love (wine)ing. Come and Taste
It, Y’all!
