Hurricane Harvey Spares Texas Vintners - Great News for Wine Lovers

In the aftermath of Hurricane Harvey, I think anything you can do to support the state, its workers and its economy would be much appreciated, and one of the smallest and easiest gestures would be to forego whatever other bottle of wine you were about to buy and pick up one from Texas. You might feel good about doing it, and more likely than not, you will be surprised by how good it tastes.

Much of the state’s best fruit was picked just before the storm arrived, and winemakers have already been wowed by its quality. Julie Kuhlken, owner of Pedernales Cellars, one of the state’s most decorated wineries, said, “This is probably the best (and certainly is the biggest) grape harvest that the Texas wine industry has ever seen, and not even Hurricane Harvey could ruin it.” Pedernales paid to send an employee to Houston with her boat to aid in rescue operations, and gave her money to assist Hurricane victims. Winemaker Dave Reilly of Duchman Family Winery, another top tier producer, agreed: “Our Hill Country fruit - particularly from Salt Lick Vineyards - has been the best ever. We are just starting to get High Plains fruit and it is looking to be on par with the Hill Country. Below average temperatures this time of year have contributed to the excellent quality.” During Labor Day weekend, Duchman Family Winery accepted donations of goods at its Wine Club party and donated $5 from each bottle or growler of rose sold to the JJ Watt Fund.  Read more....