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.
First published in New Braunfels Monthly.
