Mocha and Mead

By Connor Brown at The Grapevine 

December in the Hill Country wears many different hats– Stetson hats, to be specific. Some days we are graced with beautiful blue skies that carry a chill, and some days we find ourselves in short sleeves breaking a sweat. After months of Zoom interactions and going stir crazy, the cool gentle breeze on a warm Texas day is the beginning of another eventful month in our humble community. As we embrace the gift of double-digit weather and breathtaking sights of seasons changing, we also prepare for a list of traditions that come with it. However this spectacular season is rather brief, so it is best to enjoy it while it lasts and not make any rash decisions without the help of some seasonal sippin'. 

What never changes is our appreciation for delicious Texas-made beverages that accompany us through each change in weather. Fortunately, our friends at the Faust and Meridian Hive have us covered for the unexpected. There is never a bad time for a beer, and the sensation of enjoying a stout by the fire is unmatched, especially when enjoying the Mocha Stout from our friends at the Faust Brewery here in New Braunfels. Specially crafted with java beans, this brew packs a punch with robust coffee notes upon first sip finishing with malty flavors of dark chocolate and subtle smoke. Despite its deep dark color, this beer is still smooth and light on the palate, also allowing the drinker to indulge with its friendly alcohol content of 5.6%.

In the event we find ourselves basking in the warm rays of Texas during this month, fear not as the busy bees at Meridian Hive offer a unique alternative to thirsty Texans. Mead is a honey-based elixir made in many different fashions, but Meridian Hive uses only pure honey and real fruit to create a wide spectrum of flavors while being naturally sweet and gluten free. Of their selections, their Lemon Mead sticks out as a beverage of choice on a sunny day. As soon as the can is cracked, bright citrus and honey permeate the nose to resemble a pleasant hot toddy. On the palate, sweet honey cascades into a soft velvet texture, only to lift with a sting of refreshing lemon. Though the honey weighs slightly heavier on the palate, these flavors combined create a light, refreshing, and balanced drinking experience at a lovely 5% ABV, allowing for increased seasonal enjoyment, without buzzing like a bee. 

Whether you find yourself in a stout situation on a frigid day or a mead driven mozie in the sun, enjoy the season whatever it may offer with some of the best brews Texas can make for you. Happy Holidays, and don't forget to bring a koozie!

Flavor Trip

By Connor Brown at The Grapevine 

November marks the start of yet another exciting month for New Braunfels, even despite the curveballs our community has been thrown. Sure, things have been different, even strange at times, but more than ever our remarkable resilience is painted proudly on our city as we continue to navigate and persevere through this peculiar period in our history. We've stood up to these challenges and worked our hardest to make the best of a less-than-pleasant experience, and together we've done our finest to preserve one of the oldest industries in Texas. An industry whose creations bring us together to create memories, mementos, and relationships as we continue down an ever curious path. Texas wine isn't going anywhere. Many wineries have doubled down to let us know that they mean business by continuing to innovate and impress even the pickiest palates in the Lone Star State.

Mike and Denise Batek of Hye Meadow winery haven't skipped a beat when it comes to their passion for wine. Throughout the last few months, they've been tending to their expansive, exquisite vineyard and tasting room all while experimenting and concocting new vintages for us all to enjoy. Mr. Batek is a visionary when it comes to winemaking, and isn't afraid to experiment with the various "spices" in his cabinet. In the Come & Taste It interview I had with Mike, he compared his winemaking process to cooking and each element at his disposal could be seen as another spice or seasoning to complete the dish. Of course, a master chef cannot create excellence without an excellent palate, and years of experience and wine tasting led him and Denise to do us all a favor and open Hye Meadow Winery. Hye Meadow excels at capturing the Texas terroir with all of their wines. Their drive for quality and drinkability is abundantly clear with every bottle produced.

A brand new release from Hye Meadow this month is their 2017 Paka Vineyards Cabernet Sauvignon. Cabernet Sauvignon is one of the most popular varieties in the entire world. Originating in France, the Cabernet Sauvignon grape has been cloned and planted all over the world, including various regions in Texas. Hye Meadow is astute on quality and harnessing the complexities of our terroir. Key factors to their exceptional wines come from knowledge of what grows well in Texas, what flavors come from our soil, and what regions grow certain grapes the best. The cooler, wetter region of North Texas was the perfect option which led Hye Meadow to seek the Cabernet grapes grown at Paka Vineyards, allowing for unique yet familiar expressions to come from this wine as it's opened.

First impressions are always important, and as soon as this wine is uncorked, get ready for a ride. A deep purple hue on the underside of the cork is the equivalent to an ornate initial at the beginning of any book worth reading. It begins to tell the story even before the wine is decanted, and only then is the beauty clearly seen. Aromas of deep earth and oak permeate the senses before lifting into a beautiful bouquet of ripe red fruit. As soon as it touches the palate, delicate plum and black-currant cascade across a ripe and spicy background, carried by soft vanilla and white pepper undertones. Bold, rich, and full of flavor, this is a cab-drinker's cab that is perfect for dinner, or any special occasion down the road. 

Try this and many other selections from Hye Meadow Winery next tie you visit Hye or your friends in Gruene! And a special thank you to Mike and Denise at Hye Meadow Winery for sharing their passion and knowledge with myself, and the great people of Texas for the last 10 years. Cheers!

Wine and Recline

By Connor Brown at The Grapevine

In a town known for its events every month, October is the start of the prime season to be a NewBraunfels-er. A month typically bustling with concerts, festivals, artists' markets is gearing up for a one-of-a-kind virtual event! That's right, Gruene Music and Wine Festival is back and more accessible to everyone who loves Texas wine and craft beer.

From the comfiest cushion of your favorite couch, enjoy learning about over 15 different Texas wineries and breweries with valuable information straight from the source. This virtual event will cover information about their establishments as well as fine-tuned tasting notes to accompany their handpicked selections. Expect up to three different styles from each wine or beer maker, specifically chosen to showcase at this event; a list large enough for even the pickiest connoisseurs.

In addition to exclusive beverages and information, another Gruene Music and Wine Fest tradition is the Texas-sized guitar auction, benefiting the United Way of Comal County. This year with more guitars than ever, it's known as the Greatest Great Guitar Auction! A personal favorite, the event features a line-up of guitars that would make a guitar store owner blush, each signed or personalized by an experienced troubadour. And what could be more fun than an evening in with Texas tastes an tunes?

As we continue to adapt and conquer challenges 2020 throws our way, find solace knowing some traditions are too good to go without. This exceptional content will be featured online and free to the public, but that certainly shouldn't keep anyone from a night out in Gruene to gather for pre-festival beer and wine vibes.

Heat Quencher

By Conner Brown at The Grapevine

      September is a bittersweet month for many of us in the Hill Country. For some, there’s a light at the end of a blistering hot tunnel. For others, it marks an unwinding of the summer season and perhaps a return to not-as-fun activities. Ultimately we can all agree it's been hot and, whether we lament or embrace a cooler climate, we can likely agree on that front. In this new environment of “normal” however, our methods of staying cool are changing. Many of us have simply resorted to making friends with air conditioners and wine bottles, and we'd be hard-pressed to find better companions in such strange and steamy times. However, the decision is never easy as individual wines carry unique expressions from vintages to varietals, which can add some stress to the situation. It's far too hot to panic, so a great strategy starts with staying local and choosing wine made for Texans, by Texans. 

      White wines are a definite go-to when gazing at a near boiling thermometer from a distance. These wines are served chilled, and can be refreshing and satisfying to a thirsty palate. However, it's important to take note of the varietal and fashion it was produced, as not all whites are the same. When discussing the body of a wine, we take into account a full-bodied wine will be rich in texture and flavor, and will likely carry a stronger alcohol content. As a summer drinker, these styles are not ideal when pairing temperature and taste. Lighter bodied wines often have structured acidity that refreshes the palate with every sip, while heavier selections embrace pairing potential and become missing puzzle pieces to favorite dishes. At the end of the day, there is one particular Texas wine that leaps into the spotlight for this event. 

      Despite warm temperatures, we must admit that this is still one of the most beautiful times to live in Texas. Leave it to a Texan to combine two of our most important summer traditions of barbecuing and drinking wine into one at the Salt Lick Winery. In addition to having some of the best BBQ in the state, Salt Lick grows and produces several different wines that usually require a trek to Driftwood to try (if you're not in Gruene, that is). Their BBQ White is an outstanding blend of Trebbiano, Vermentino, Pinot Gris, and Muscat. These varieties come together to form a citrus-forward medley, with strong undertones of limestone and lemongrass. Controlled by its unoaked aging process, a hint of Muscat gives this blend a short kiss of sweetness followed by refreshing acidity to pair perfectly with the patio and the brisket. 

Berries, Spice and Everything Nice

By Connor Brown at The Grapevine

      August is a very important month for many of us New Braunfelsers. A month of cramming in those final trips of the summer, getting the kiddos ready for another great year at school, and most importantly, drinkin’ wine and chillin’! However, some of us have seen our vacations morph into staycations and are turning living rooms into classrooms as we continue adjusting to this new normal. What hasn’t changed? Top Texas wineries bringing some of their finest juice to a little oasis just up the road in Gruene! No sweaty palm, high speed, two-way country road with Formula 1 turns driving necessary!

      Up north in Cedar Park, a small team transforms Texas grapes into gold. Utilizing Texas Tech education and Texas grown experience, Bent Oak Winery is a rising force producing excellent and authentic Texas wine. By paying close attention to terroir and climate, winemaker John Catalano understands the harmony when composing with Texas fruit and soil.

      The Bent Oak Cabernet Sauvignon, born and raised in our state, is hard to come by in a retail store due to a flavor profile in stark contrast to what wine drinkers are used to in cabernet. After all, the highest rated cabs come from France or California. While cab is grown extensively in Texas and used abundantly in blending across the state and country, it’s not common in my experience to drink a truly exceptional Texas Cabernet Sauvignon. And just when I thought 2020 couldn’t get weirder...

      Upon opening the bottle, dark red on the underside of the cork whispers of depth as faint notes of aged amaretto waft into a full bouquet of black cherry and spice on the nose. As the palette prepares for its first sip, white pepper and oak eagerly accompany subtle notes of vanilla and blackberry. The wine is properly aged so tannins make a memorable appearance without overstaying their welcome. Finishing flavors of smokey cranberry cascade across the palette, leaving it eagerly waiting for more. Mr. Catalano makes a wonderful display of winemaking prowess to deliver a familiar cab drinking experience, all while adhering to and exemplifying qualities that make Texas wine unique. This bottle makes a perfect companion for anyone trying to beef up some brisket, or to simply enjoy a cool evening under the Lone Star.

      Of all the things that we could be doing right now, it would certainly be worse if we didn’t have wine. An outlet of sorts, enjoying Texas-made wine is also a way to be closer to the community and support one of the oldest industries in the state, all while helping forget about cancelled travel plans and tomorrow's lesson plan for the little ones. But for those serious about Texas wine, this cab is a must try and a great example of what is going on at Bent Oak Winery.

      Come on in and start with the cab, it won't be long before their Tempranillo, Rose, or Cuvee start sounding just as delicious. Stay safe, and stay tuned!

Gruene Hall BINGO

Can you get a BINGO on our Gruene Hall card? If not, consider it a To-Do List!

*click to enlarge

Bottled Summer: Citrus Flavors and Sunshine

By Connor Brown at The Grapevine

      If anybody knows about quenching thirst deep in the heat of the summer, it is the wineries deep in the heart of Texas! Located in Lubbock, Llano Estacado is one of the largest and best-selling wineries in the state—and their sauvignon blanc or rosé are the perfect summer wine selections.

      Sauvignon blanc is one of the most popular grape varietals, known to any wine-lover. Originally from the Bordeaux region in France, sauvignon blanc is a popular grape at vineyards all over the world for its versatility and variety in flavor. With so many different climates and conditions in the world, the flavor of this common grape is distinctly different depending on the region.

      This grape can be grown in every corner of the world, but Texans do it particularly well. This varietal demands sunshine, but cannot thrive in high temperatures. Finding the perfect compromise, Llano Estacado grows their fruit in the sweet spot of the high planes so it gets plenty of sunshine without getting battered by the extreme Texas heat.

      Llano Sauvignon Blanc is a dry white wine, boasting aromas of guava and lemon peel. Beginning with beautiful tropical fruit on the nose, a ripe lemon citrus flavor carries a balanced acidity into a pleasantly full-bodied mouthfeel. This wine carries a complexity found in other full-bodied white varietals while maintaining its light and zesty delicacy. This unique balance is what makes it a special, distinct American sauvignon blanc. Easy to drink on a hot summer day, keep a bottle chilled to enjoy in your favorite shady spot.

      With growing popularity, rosé has become a new go-to summer wine as more and more people discover its delicately refreshing qualities at the mid-point between white and red.

      While there are many ways to achieve a rosé, one of the most common methods is called skin contact. This method basically allows red wine grapes to ferment with the skins for a limited time before the juice is drained and separated, leaving a wonderful pink juice to continue to mature into a delectable rosé wine.

      The Llano Rosé is born using this method. After a maximum of 10 hours skin contact to extract flavor and color, the skins are gently pressed and the juice racked into stainless steel tanks where they ferment with a special yeast blend to preserve the delicate aromatics and build citrus flavor. The perfect classic rosé should be aromatic, food friendly and enjoyable on its own. Llano Rosé is all three, to a tee.

17 Memes for Every Taco-Lover

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Want more? Follow Cantina del Rio on Facebook!

10 Things We Love to Order at Mozie's

 In a setting of casual rustic elegance where the all-sports TV’s and air conditioning are always on, Mozie’s in Gruene Historic District features a full bar and an all-day menu of favorite American classics done right.

Here are some local favorites!

Nothing satisfies like a juicy, flame-kissed cheeseburger...and this is the king of them all.

The Anticuchos prove that 3 simple components, when assembled thoughtfully, can be absolutely delicious.

With fresh, bright flavors, the Fish Tacos are a meal that will fill you up without slowing you down!

This is a super classic, deliciously familiar dish— but don't mistake that for basic flavor. It's anything but basic.

 Are you an onion ring connoisseur? You're gonna love these rings. Don't typically care for onion rings? You're gonna love these rings. (Really.)

 A hidden gem, this sandwich is purely craveable! There's friend chicken sandwiches and then there's the Panko Sandwich at Mozie's.

Simple and straight forward sliders like you've never had them before. Served 3 to an order— although you'll wish you had room for more!

From the slow-simmered sauce to the handmade meatballs, the Meatball Sub is a deliciously hearty sandwich you'll never see coming.

 Don't overlook this local favorite— the seemingly simple Big Dog is layered with flavors that are just meant to be.

It's a fresh, delicious dish that surpasses the meager reputation of a typical turkey sandwich.

Texas Wine: These Hills Have Vines

By Connor Brown at The Grapevine

               It is hard to avoid the elephant in the room. For many of us, things are far different than they were at the beginning of the year. In just a short amount of time, many of us have experienced unprecedented changes and are still overcoming challenges adjusting to this “new normal”. However, Texans are notoriously resilient, and during these times we are all doing our part to keep each other safe, healthy, and happy. Among us, are wine makers, grape growers, and thousands of others in the industry that are fighting to keep doors open and to help our beautiful state recover. Therefore, while being our best selves and taking proactive measures to stay safe, it has now become our urgent duty to help one of our oldest and reliable industries and drink up as much Texas wine as possible.

               Texas history is deeply rooted in wine and begins as early as 1662 with a vineyard established by European missionaries. These vineyards became more abundant as our historical churches and missions began to be constructed and the demand for communion wine increased. In the mid-19^th century, the French world of wine was in peril as a massive phylloxera (invasive, vine-thirsty insect) problem wiped out over 25% of vines planted in France. This required a Texas sized solution, and with the help of Thomas Volney Munson, the French wine industry was saved. Thomas Volney Munson was a scientist who discovered that American vines had become immune to the pest. Through extensive research, he determined a specific grape grown near Temple, Texas would have the most success being grafted and grown in southern France due to the soil. Mr. Munson became the second American to receive the Chevalier du Mérite Agricole (Order of Agricultural Merit) behind Thomas Edison. By 1883 Frank Qualia opened Val Verde Winery in Del Rio which roared through the 20s and stayed optimistic through the Depression of the 30s to become the oldest winery in Texas today. Through their perseverance and the support of their community, Val Verde helped pave the way for countless other growers and producers in our state that helped create a wave in the 1970s when the industry saw its largest growth. Between 1975 and 1985, some of the biggest names including McPherson, Messina Hof, and Fall Creek produced their first vintages, and have since produced hundreds more and inspired new wineries as Texas ranks among the top in the country for wine production and consumption.

               Make no mistake, the Texas wine industry is as strong as ever with over four hundred wineries, over four thousand acres of planted vines, and booming business worth at least thirteen billion dollars. In fact, The Hill Country alone is the second largest AVA (American Viticultural Area) in the country and is home to over 50 wineries. However, these impressive figures do not grant immunity to freak events like pandemics, and wineries are still counting on us to enjoy their wine so they can keep making it. So, as we remember do our part in everything else, let us not forget to support our neighbors so they can continue to support us.

Quarantine Blues: Country Music for When We're Alone Together

Feeling lonesome? Let's be alone together with some Gruene Hall favorites!

And be sure to follow Gruene Hall on Spotify!

Your Perfect Guide: Eat/Drink in Gruene Historic District

Just off the Guadalupe River, Cantina del Rio is perfectly positioned for your post-float taco fix. But this hot spot doesn't just serve muy bueno Tex-mex favorites– they serve some serious burgers! The Bean Burger is a legend with its juicy beef patty, topped with refried beans, Fritos, red onion and melted Cheez Whiz. (Yeah, they went there.) Not hungry, just thirsty? Cantina del Rio's margarita has been voted the Best in New Braunfels every year since 2012!

As seen in Southern Living magazine, Fickle Pickles makes the best homemade pickles you've ever tasted! With complimentary samples, it's easy to fall in love with their sweet, crunchy, spicy recipe. (They also have an extra spicy option that is to die for!) Put the Fickle Pickles on a hamburger or sandwich, in deviled eggs or a bloody mary! Available by the jar, half-case or full-case.

If sitting in the shade, sipping your favorite wine or craft beer is your kind of thing, The Grapevine is your kind of place. With picnic tables tucked under the giant oak trees, they feature one of the largest selections of Texas wines, as well as carefully curated wine from around the world. Not a wine drinker? They have Texas craft beer, too! Offering a menu that changes with the season and a knowledgeable staff to help guide you to the perfect pour, it's the ultimate spot to sit and sip awhile. 

One of the most unique dining spots in Texas, the Gristmill River Restaurant & Bar is located in a century-old cotton gin overlooking the beautiful Guadalupe River. If the amazing view isn't enough to lure you in, how about fall-off-the-bone ribs, a huge chicken fried steak, or juicy fire roasted chicken? Almost there? Bookend your meal with a tower of legendary onion rings to start and Jack Daniel's Pecan Pie to finish.

Not your average coffee shop, Gruene Coffee Haus roasts their beans in-house and only as needed, giving new meaning to the phrase "fresh cup of coffee". This is as fresh as it gets! But don't forget to check out the rest of their menu. This cozy spot also offers a full espresso menu, cold brew, smoothies, Italian sodas, and pastries made locally from scratch. Ready for happy hour? They also offer locally brewed beer and wine from Dry Comal Creek Vineyards.

Sample over 50 different flavors of fresh olive oil and balsamic vinegar fresh from the tap. Plus gourmet chocolate, pastas, pesto, sauces and so much more! This beautiful shop makes upscale ingredients delectably accessible. Not sure where to start? Try some samples to get you going. The staff knows every single item and can help with pairing suggestions and recipe ideas!

In a casually rustic setting where the all-sports TV's and air conditioning are always on, Mozie's features a full bar and all-day menu of favorite American classics. From the fresh and light fish tacos to the hearty and juicy Top Sirloin, this menu truly covers all the bases. Where else can you get a 100% beef hotdog grilled and topped with jalapeno mustard, dill relish, and/or sauerkraut? Nowhere, that's where. Belly up to the long bar and have a specialty cocktail or ice cold beer while you mull over the menu. It takes a while to make a selection when absolutely everything is craveable.

Locally sourced from Texas farmers, the River House has a menu that brings people together in the name of scrumptious food and feel-good atmosphere. This is the place you'll find home-cooked meals like chicken and waffles, fried green tomatoes, chicken pot pie, and even brisket enchiladas. But don't sleep through the weekend brunch! The Gruene Eggs and Ham Benedict is so rich and savory, it's the perfect companion to their classic mimosa.

Going Green in Gruene: Organic Wine

By Connor Brown at The Grapevine

               March in New Braunfels is quite a sight to see. The cold weather has likely left us for the year, and the town is painted in various shades of green, from our beautiful parks and trees (shout out to Parks and Rec!) to the green tinted beer in our cups around the 17^th. New Braunfels is crazy about green and this is the month we get to shamelessly over-do it, because who doesn’t love drinking green beer in Gruene wearing green? I certainly do, but Gruene is getting into a different kind of green this month with an upcoming selection of Organic wines!

                What makes a wine organic? This is easily the simplest question to answer in the realm of organic wine, as it has everything to do with the grapes and how they’re grown. Each year, organic wine producers endure a rigorous process to stay organically certified. Vineyards cannot use any herbicide, pesticide, or other toxic or superfluous substance to maintain or support the vines or alter the wine. In America, our USDA is responsible for testing soil, taking samples, and ensuring compliance with the vineyards and their strict rules. Beware as organic does not mean Vegan or Natural, for wine it’s the assurance that every aspect of production is scrutinized from growth to storage. And with new revelations every year about harmful chemicals that enter our body on a regular basis through food, it’s nice to have the peace of mind that our dinner or recreation wine isn’t adding to that list.

But what is the real difference between organic and non-organic wine? Aside from the obvious, non-organic wine making can include the use of chemicals to maintain the vineyard, and additives to affect the taste and color of the wine flowing from the bottle. For larger and more productive wineries, the use of pesticides and herbicides is common practice. However, a good question, what makes it into the glass that isn’t organic? Obviously, any additive is a no-no in organic wine production, but the most common thing that gets added to wine during production is sulfur dioxide, which results in wines having sulfites. Sulfites are going to be found in almost all wines, but what gets the organic stamp is simply not adding any more to it. But what do these sulfites even do and why add it? The practice of adding Sulfur Dioxide is to curtail the formation of unwanted bacteria or yeast once the wine is produced. Therefore, in order to meet USDA requirements, wines must have less than 100 parts per million of sulfites. This mostly just affects the shelf life of a bottle, which to most of us is unimportant as most wine is consumed within 30 minutes of purchase.

At the end of the day, what’s most important is if the wine is delicious and the time spent drinking it was enjoyed. With so many wines in this world and so little time to try them, maybe making an effort to drink organic can help us enjoy wine even longer in our lives and in our world. 
Cheers to living green, from Gruene!

First published in New Braunfels Monthly.

Valentine's Day Specials in Gruene Historic District

By Kristen King

No matter your Valentine's vibe, we have you covered. Treat yourself (and your Valentine) to a delicious, memorable night out in Gruene Historic District.

There's no shortage of swoon-worthy activities, and there is definitely something for everyone! In the mood for wine tastings? Head to The Grapevine. In the mood for live music? Head over to Gruene Hall. Want to dine on a delicious meal in a historic, Texas setting? Gristmill River Restaurant & Bar is the place to be! Looking to find a unique memento? Stroll around the local boutiques in town to find everything from jewelry to antiques to apparel and more. Do you LOVE margaritas? Head over to Cantina del Rio and have the best one in New Braunfels!

Why not try something new? Mix up your traditional Gruene experience with a fly casting lesson, a new cocktail or menu item at your favorite restaurant, or stop by Gruene Hall for some of the free live music you may usually miss out on.

What's the best thing about Valentine's Day in Gruene? You don't have to plan months in advance to have a special, memorable time. No reservations needed! Most dinner features are offered all weekend long, as well. Can't find a sitter on the 14th? No problem! Get one for Saturday or Sunday and celebrate then! There's a flexibility that you don't have most other places. You can truly enjoy the company you're with and not have to stick to a schedule. If you find yourself enjoying the garden at The Grapevine too much to leave, you can sit and sip for as long as you like. Dinner is merely steps away when you're ready. Put your name on the list at Mozie's— they'll text you when your table is ready! Enjoy the live music at the Gristmill River Restaurant & Bar until your table is ready there! Let your focus be on the time you spend together, complimented by delicious food and wine.

The modern idea of giving a gift is to give an experience versus a wrapped gift, and this is the epitome of that very idea. Experience Texas— the food, the wine, the music, and especially the company— all in Gruene Historic District!

Special menu selections (available February 14th-16th) include...

Gristmill River Restaurant & Bar
A tender and juicy 8oz. New York strip accompanied by bacon-wrapped stuffed Texas gulf jumbo shrimp, served with loaded mashed potatoes and an iceberg wedge salad. ($25.99) Don't forget dessert...Ultimate Turtle Cheesecake: creamy cheesecake with rich fudge, topped with caramel, pecans, chocolate chips and whipped cream. Served with two spoons.

Mozie's
Choose from the juicy Panko Parmesan Chicken Pasta with creamy chipotle sauce or an authentic Italian Meatball & Angel Hair Pasta with slow-simmered plum tomato sauce. Each served with garlic bread and your choice of Caesar Salad or iceberg lettuce wedge. ($15.99)

Cantina del Rio
Sizzlin' tender chicken or beef fajitas marinated in our special fresh-squeezed lime marinade, served with beans, rice, house made guacamole, fresh pico and your choice of flour or corn tortillas. ($13.95 for one or $24.95 for you and your sweetie)

Wine & Chocolate Pairing: There's Only One Rule

      Is there a more romantic, luxurious duo? Not from where we're sitting! But pairing wine and chocolate so the flavors enhance, rather than compete, can be a challenge. The secret is simple: try to match the intensity of the two components.

      In general, crisp white wines pair best with white chocolate, smooth medium-bodied wines pair well with milk chocolate, and deep heavy-bodied red wines pair best with dark chocolate. The combinations are endless, and it can be fun to taste test your way to your favorite pairings! If you are tasting multiple pairings, remember to move from light to dark chocolate or light-bodied to full-bodied wine. This will help the flavors build rather than clash.

      Everyone's palate is different, so we encourage you to experiment with different pairings to find your own favorite!

Classic Peeps Need Classy Drinks

By Connor Brown at the Grapevine in Gruene

               Now we’re in full swing of the new decade, let’s take a moment to remember the epidemic that swept over our nation 100 years ago: Prohibition. The roaring twenties, a time of great class, wealth, and long nights occupying hidden corners of our city; where great music and libations set the scene. And what a change to be able to enjoy our favorite beverages in our favorite establishments, or in the serenity of our own spaces. However, despite the outright ban on alcohol and intoxication only 100 years ago, winos endured and enjoyed special privilege to get them through the decade. Home wine making was still legal and saw a whopping 10% increase during the time of prohibition, as 200 gallons of wine a year could be made for personal consumption. Therefore, as an ode to a magical time in our history and the tradition of winemaking, cheers to those who kept the art alive and the glasses full.

                Winemaking in Texas goes back even farther than prohibition, and many if those who continued this tradition paved the way for some local favorite wineries such as McPherson, William Chris, and Llano Estacado. From each of these vineyards come a plethora of classy drink choices, but first, a personal favorite, William Chris Texas High Plains Rosé. This eccentric blend of Sangiovese, Riesling, and Mourvedre satisfies the palate with its full body flavor, and decadently creamy texture. Right out of the bottle, experience floral aromas and lively notes of melon, honeysuckle, and undertones of raspberry. Another wonderful quality of this wine is its versatility. Whether it be a posh function, or a simple gathering on the patio, this wine will rise to the occasion and prove to be a crowd-pleaser.

                For red wine fanatics, Llano is responsible for many of our favorite Texas selections, and new to our area is their Bourbon Barrel aged Tempranillo. A varietal originally from Spain, many Texas winemakers test their chops with this one, because of the climate similarities to Spain and Northern Texas. The flavors of the grape shine through with smokey, peppery, leathery goodness and complex notes of dark fruit, but the bourbon barrel aging shows its teeth with a unique warming bite on the finish. These qualities make this wine perfect for a chilly evening, or a bargain bottle for a complex multiple course meal at a fancy dinner party.

                Finally, for dessert, let’s unwind with an excellent Texas made Sherry from our friends at McPherson in Lubbock. A fortified wine, Sherry is another popular style originating from Spain, and packs a punch at 17.8% ABV so it’s best enjoyed in controlled quantities. With intense aromas of caramel and warm butterscotch, this copper colored wine melts into sweet flavors of dark plum, molasses, and toasted almond. Best enjoyed with something devilishly sweet, or on its own with someone sweet.

                We owe something to the pioneers that kept us going through a tough time in our history, and with their dedication to keeping the wine industry alive, we’re able to enjoy the innovations of Texas winemaking wherever we are. And with that, here’s to another year of celebrations to kick off another decade of swanky elegance, reminiscent of the classy days of twenties past.

First published in New Braunfels Monthly.

Hal Ketchum & Gruene Hall: A Match Made in Music Heaven

Many musicians have played Gruene Hall, building its legacy with music and memories, but only one artist also used a hammer and nail. Did you know Hal Ketchum worked at Gruene Hall?

Originally from upstate New York, Hal moved to New Braunfels in 1981. One Sunday while at his home near the heart of Gruene, he heard some music he liked and followed it straight to the Hall!

It was just a normal Sunday at Gruene Hall. A favorite no-cover band was playing, patrons were enjoying the music and a cold drink. But, normal turned extraordinary when the handsome stranger sauntered through the side door by the old cigarette machine. Hal walked over to the band, talked to the musicians for a minute, then pulled out his harmonica and started playing along. He fit right in! He had found his place, his people.

Soon a fixture at the Hall, he worked as a carpenter during the day and pulled out his guitar to play no-cover shows at night. Have you ever noticed the basketball goal in the beer garden at Gruene Hall? That's Hal's handiwork. How about the wooden doors at the front of the Hall that open and close over the old swinging doors? Yep, those are Hal's too.

His career took off in 1991 when his first single "Small Town Saturday Night" hit number one. A string of hits followed, earning him an induction into the Grand Ole Opry in 1994 as its 71st member.