Bottles and Cans with No Bans

Wine Spotlight from New Braunfels Monthly

March 2019

By: Connor Brown

A beautiful display of beer taps can be quite mesmerizing. It’s easy to go for a pint, and it certainly helps being able to taste it first – but let’s try something different this year. It’s a little known fact that some of The Grapevine’s best Texas craft beer awaits thirsty travelers behind the glass doors of our beer fridge. With over 30 different beers – at least half of those Texas- born – with a myriad of styles and flavors, it can be a bit overwhelming at first, but there is something for everyone, and even the pickiest of beer drinkers will be satisfied.



It always helps to know what you like and to have something in mind before facing a wide selection of bottles and cans. Seek the assistance of a professional if you’re new to beer tasting.

For lighter beer drinkers, try the Independence Brewing Native Texan Pilsner. This is an easy drinking pilsner that loosely resembles everyone’s favorite river beer with some added depth. Since this is still a craft beer, expect more pronounced flavors and substance, but still enjoy the crisp refreshing flavor without simply feeling hydrated.
 
If you happen to be a middle of the road kind of person, and don’t mind hops, Celis Pale Bock could be a new favorite brew. This touches the spirits of Amber and IPA fanatics alike, displaying a lovely copper color while uniting the worlds of a Bock and Pale Ale style beer, with a smooth malty flavor and a crisp and easy finish. It also helps that Celis can do no wrong (I’m not biased- I promise).

Nevertheless, whatever tastes you prefer, there will be something available to quench your thirst while taking in Texas at its finest. And if all these options seem too daunting, fear not there are lovely wine and beer-tenders always ready for a challenge, and eager to aid in a tasting journey. But let’s explore the best craft beer selection available in New Braunfels - draft, bottle, or can.

Valentine’s Varieties

Wine Spotlight from New Braunfels Monthly

February 2019

By: Connor Brown

              

Valentine’ Day is right around the corner, and most of us are aware of the stress that can come with it. Often times, it seems that we’re completely on our own trying to make each year better than the last. Fortunately, its very easy to rely on a solid bottle of wine to be your companion for a successful Valentine’s Day. Whether dessert or dinner is the specialty, a good bottle of wine will take the dish to another level. And the least I can do, is recommend a couple of bottles that reserve a special place in my heart for this Valentine’s Day. 

               

Out of Fredericksburg, Texas, Barons Creek Vineyards makes some of the finest wine known to south Texas. In particular, their Merlot is an easy wine to consider as its complex yet neutral flavor profile compliments any hearty meal. It’s full body and rich ripe cherry notes cascade beautifully into a deep smoky vanilla finish, to provide support to both smooth and savory flavors. This wine also contrasts beautifully with dessert and other sweet treats, so experiment and enjoy!

For a lighter meal with chicken or fish as its focal
point, a dry white wine is ideal. In many occurrences, the zesty and refreshing white wine is paired with lighter fare to bring out the softer, and more delicate flavors of a dish. Try some crisp whites out of Texas like the Fall Creek Sauvignon Blanc. Notes of citrus and mint awaken the palate to form a lasting and rich fruity yet refreshing finish, not only pairing well with a dish, but complimenting it as well.

Sweet treats are best enjoyed with a sweetheart. And with everything that goes into this special day, some slack is always welcome. Don’t sweat it with the chocolate covered strawberries, when you can experience Los Pinos Ranch Besitos De Chocolate. From Pittsburg, Texas, this Lenoir based sweet red wine is literally dessert in a bottle with spot-on notes of chocolate and strawberry and just a hint of alcohol on the finish. Though its one of the most interesting wines to come through The Grapevine, it’s quite delicious and does a solid job of covering dessert for any occasion. 

So here’s to a hopefully less stressful and more successful Valentines Day, with hopes that these Texas wines can help elevate your palate and upgrade your experience on this holiday. Happy Valentine’s Day!