With a vineyard covering no less than 32 acres, Spicewood is now considered as one of the largest vineyards in the Texan Hill Country. With Ron Yates at the helm since 2007, this estate has chosen the well-known Spanish varieties like Tempranillo, Graciano and Carignan as a way to differentiate themselves from others properties.
When Ron Yates spent some time in Spain while he was still studying, it was love at first sight with the magnificent Ribera Del Duero region. Back to his native Texas, he saw some similarities between the Spanish area and his Hill Country. He picked some of the most popular varieties that were thriving in Ribera del Duero.
Tempranillo seems then to be the flagship grape on the estate. Sometimes blended with Cabernet, Merlot and Graciano (a grape also popular in the Rioja area), this variety is also grown and vinified as a 100% grape as in the HP Black Label for instance.
Ron Yates and his family
As Texas can be so brutal to vineyards because of its changing climate and tough weather, the Spicewood team which is also like an extended family works actively the vineyards through each season. That is the secret of the estate’s succes in order to fight against frost, hail, and baking heat.
I had the pleasure to taste two of their cuvees, first one is a “rosado”. Second one is a Cabernet Sauvignon based blend.
Spicewood Vineyards, Grenache, Rosé, 2021, Texas Hill Country
Made from one of the popular grapes in Spain (Garnacha as Grenache), the Rosé is quite seducing thanks to its lovely salmon color. Red fruit is bursting on the nose. On the palate, this “rosado” is well textured with some very fragrant stone fruits, nice acidity with a nice white pepper finish. With some salty tapas, that would be match made in heaven.
Spicewood Vineyards, Blend 2, 2018, Texas High Plains
Interesting blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Grenache and Sangiovese that is definitely making some great parings with some BBQ meats, baby back ribs and sausages. Again, the right acidity is elevating this bold red to higher levels of pleasure on the palate. (38$)
The other wines ar available for tasting and buying at the estate. Ron Yates and his crew will certainely welcome you with a nice smile and some empty glasses that just want to be filled with his nectars. More to discover here : https://www.spicewoodvineyards.com/Wines/Red-Wines Cheers !
The Spicewood Vineyards Family
English 