Happy Thursday!
We hope this email finds you well and you are enjoying this "cooler weather".
We will be back at Discover Denton tonight from 6 - 8 doing some sampling of wines for Twilight Tunes. Please stop by and say hello if you are in the area.
We also have a special event tonight at the bar. If you are interested in learning more about Wills and Trusts, we are hosting an event with attorney Brett Bussan. It will be a fun gathering, and the first glass or two of wine is on Brett. :-)
Friday night, we have music with the DJ Rice quintet at 7:30. We still have a few reserved seats available.
Saturday at 3 pm, you can visit and enjoy an Irish Pub Experience. No reservations or cover charge.
Saturday evening, we have the Brad Leali Tentet Jazz Band starting at 7:30. The reserved seats are all claimed, but we do have room for walk-ins with seating at the bar and high tops around the bar.
Sunday is Father's Day, and we will have a fun afternoon scheduled with live music and some opportunities for people to get up and share their favorite Dad Jokes. So stop in after 4 PM and join the fun. :-)
Make sure you check out our Events page to learn about our schedule of events.
For those who would like to reserve for the Di Abruzzo dinner, you can find that online at Dinner with Di Abruzzo.
Visit our Events page to see all our upcoming events.
Have a great weekend!
From all of us here at Steve's Wine Bar, Cheers!
Denton Chamber of Commerce: Best Small Business of the Year.
Jun 12, 2025 at 12:15 PM
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Our Denton Community is Amazing!!!
We have an Italian Dinner planned for Monday, June 9th, with our friends from Di Abruzzo. Due to unforeseen circumstances, we have had to move the dinner to July 7th. What is amazing is that we reached out to a couple of folks here in Denton, and within an hour, we had Suzanne Johnson stepping in to help craft a menu for those who reserved space for the 9th.
With this change, we do have a few seats that have opened up for our Monday dinner. If you would like to join us, visit our website at www.steveswinebar.com to see the menu and reserve your seats.
For those who would like to reserve for the new date with Di Abruzzo, you can find that online at Dinner with Di Abruzzo.
Tonight we have a special performance with Cassandra Berry. She will be performing a piano bar experience along with showing her movie, The Take Away. Reservation fees and cover will help her and Susan participate in the coming festivals, which are showing her movie. If you can't attend, feel free to contribute through the online reservation and make a note that this is for a contribution only, or leave a Band Tip.
Tomorrow afternoon, Off the Rails is back with Bluegrass and more at 3 pm.
Saturday night, Hannah Claire Goodwin performs. For those who have attended our last couple of performances with our young singers, Georgia Barge and Margaret Nicholson, this will be another wonderful night of music.
Visit our Events page to see all our upcoming events.
Have a great weekend!
From all of us here at Steve's Wine Bar, Cheers!
Denton Chamber of Commerce: Best Small Business of the Year.
Jun 6, 2025 at 12:39 PM
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There are multiple Malvasia varieties around the Mediterranean, most notably in Madeira. However, the grape used in Madeira is not genetically identical to the variety of Malvasia found on the Istrian Peninsula, which is in the northernmost coastline of Croatia, and also found in Slovenia and the Friuli-Venezia Giulia region of Italy. Malvasia Istriana is renowned for its ability to tolerate cold winters, early frosts, and windy locations, making it ideal for this northeastern Italian offering. It is considered semi-aromatic with floral scents and some freshness. The Cormòns Malvasia has undergone extended maceration on the skins to extract more color and flavor, resulting in a gorgeous golden sunflower color in the glass. When tasted, green apple, pineapple, apricot, and a tinge of white pepper balance the white flower aromatics. Perfect with seafood, the Cormòns would transform even more alongside an entrée of Shrimp Napoleon from Napoli’s Italian Restaurant.
Provençal rosé is seen as the global benchmark for the popular, light-pink sipper that is often drunk in warmer weather (but truly can be enjoyed all year round). It is known as a more delicate style, filled with summer berries, stone fruit, dried herbs, minerality, and thirst-quenching acidity. And the Ferrari family, proprietors of Château Malherbe, are masters at rosé. They take care of the land, practicing organic agriculture since 1949 and attaining the Demeter certification for biodynamic farming in 2021. They tell a story that when there are heavy storms, the bay of Hyères changes color and turns from shades of blue to red: the clays and alluvial deposits pour down through streams into the sea. This astonishing place cultivates this lovely blend of 70% Grenache and 30% Cinsault, from hand-harvested grapes on their estate. An amalgamation of blood orange, white peach, strawberry, stewed apricot, and almond sparkle in the glass. Shared alongside a veggie-forward dish like Baba Ghanoush from Green Zatar will make for a delightful culinary experience.
The origin story of Balletto is called “from veggies to wine.” According to the website, founder and owner John Balletto started the business in 1977, when at the age of 17, his father unexpectedly passed away. He didn’t go to college, passing up several athletic scholarships, so that he could help his mother run the farm. After planting and experimenting with over 70 vegetable species on the farm during the 80s and 90s – at one point thy were the largest vegetable farm in Northern California – they decided to also plant grapes, which were better suited to impending water shortages. The final decision was made in 1998 when three El Niño storms wiped out a huge portion of their vegetable crops, and they converted all their farmland to estate vineyards. Currently, they sell 90% of their grapes to other winemakers, but the 10% they keep for themselves is what goes into Balletto wines. This Russian River Valley Pinot Noir showcases all that is special about the grape: with a light touch of French oak, this rendition has aromas of rose petals, plus notes of cherry, strawberry, pomegranate, black tea, and some subtle spice. The Black Forest Ham Sandwich from Metzler’s Food and Beverage would be a delicious pairing.
A prayerful image genuflecting to a large red drop on the label may cause some questions, but the message is all in good fun (it is a French sense of humor, anyway). The Duseigneur name translates to “of the lord,” as in feudal lord (we are going way back in history!). Since the Duseigneur family are winemakers, they decided to call this Côtes du Rhône blend ‘La Goutte du Seigneur’ or ‘drop of the lord,’ as a way to combine their own surname and their occupation. Clever, right? Well, despite the complicated explanation, the wine is delicious and perfect for warm weather. A 50-50 blend of Grenache and Syrah from hand-harvested biodynamic grapes, this wine saw no oak; rather, it was fermented and matured in concrete. Ripe red fruits abound, like wild strawberry, redcurrant, and red cherry, plus some blackcurrant, and a sort of graphite minerality. Satiate your palate with a glass plus a helping of the Grilled Chicken Salad from Di Abruzzo Market.
Namesake Herminia Casas was born in 1889 to a prominent family from Rioja. Her education allowed her to think critically and love learning. As an adult, Herminia married Joaquin, a winemaker, and they started a family together. While raising her children, Herminia still believed in the importance of community, donating her knowledge, money, and much of her time, by facilitating access to education for the children and women of her village. Sadly, Herminia passed away in 1944, but her legacy lives on through all the people she has helped. In 1949, her husband Joaquin founded Viña Herminia to share her story with the world. Her portrait graces every label, and her spirit lives on in each lovely glass. This Tempranillo is a fruit-forward option that has spent four months in American and French oak casks with another four months maturing in the bottle, a considerably shorter time than most Rioja reds. With characteristics of cherry, redcurrant, red plum, and blackberry, the finish is rounded by vanilla nuances. A gorgeous accompaniment would be the Spanish tapa Pan con Tomate, which is artisan bread that has been brushed with olive oil and toasted, then rubbed with garlic, and finally topped with fresh grated tomatoes. Yum!
If you enjoy Napa Valley wines, there is a good chance you have heard of Trefethen Family Vineyards, one of the first wineries that visitors see driving up Highway 29. While not the oldest continuously operating winery in Napa (that accolade goes to Charles Krug’s estate, established in 1861), the original vines on the Eshcol Ranch, which would eventually become Trefethen, were planted in the 1850s. Everyone knows what happened shortly after this time period: phylloxera, tiny aphids that can destroy the roots of vines, wiped out much of the vineyards of California (and Europe). After replanting and recovery, then the Spanish Flu of the 1920s along with Prohibition, which lasted until 1933, and then the Great Depression, severely stalled the wine industry. It took a long time for red wines to become popular in the US; white wine dominated sales in the 1960s and 70s. A 60 Minutes segment on red wine’s heart health benefits led to its boom, and Trefethen rose to prominence. This ‘Eshcol’ Red Blend, a mix of 57% Cabernet Sauvignon, 27% Merlot, 8% Malbec, 7% Petit Verdot, and 1% Cabernet Franc, is made with sustainable practices. Medium-bodied on the palate, it lingers with nectarine, red cherry, blackcurrant, eucalyptus, cedar, and cracked white pepper. Share it with the Veggie Power Plate from LSA, which features a grilled portobello mushroom.
According to Greg Norman’s bio, “The internationally renowned ‘Great White Shark’ won more than 90 tournaments worldwide, including two Open Championships, and holds the distinction of defending his No. 1 position in the world golf rankings for 331 weeks. As one of the most prolific players in the game’s history, his astounding career culminated in 2001 when he was inducted into the World Golf Hall of Fame with a higher percentage of votes than any other inductee in history. In 2009 and 2011, Greg served as the Presidents Cup captain of the International Team and his strong influence in the game continues today.” Norman has founded more than a dozen global companies, but it was his zeal for wine, discovered during his various travels for tournaments, that led to the inception of Greg Norman Estates in 1996. He considers his wines high quality and accessible, and this Shiraz certainly is the case. Fruity but lush, there are characteristics of blueberry, blackberry, black cherry, mixed berry jam, and cola, plus clove and allspice from 16 months of French oak as well as stainless steel aging. Norman posts recipes on his website, and while a meaty dish will be expected with this Shiraz, the Hot Soppressata pizza from Aglio will be a fun choice.
Grant Burge wines are known to be bold powerhouses that celebrate Australia’s terroir, specifically Barossa Valley. But in 2021, the brand ventured out to explore other terrains, including Paso Robles. Known for intense sunlight yet with cool breezes from the Pacific Ocean, Paso Robles fulfills their desire to offer a premium quality wine made in California with a flavor profile Americans will love. Native Californian winemaker Ashley Leon worked alongside Grant Burge Chief Winemaker Craig Stansborough to create this unique wine. With the inaugural vintage, Leon noted, “It is an honor to be at the forefront of this pivotal era for Grant Burge and exciting to work with this beautiful fruit from such a unique growing region which I consider home.” Almost three years ago, we had the Barossa ‘Ink’ Cab at the bar, so it’s fun to now show off the Paso Robles ‘Ink.’ Opaque in the glass, this Cab that also has a small amount of Petite Sirah, is evocative of candied red cherry, black currant, blackberry, dark chocolate, and cinnamon. A decadent dish like the Wagyu Beef Burger from the Bartonville Store will measure up to the ‘Ink’ Cabernet Sauvignon.
Jun 5, 2025 at 7:04 AM
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Happy Wednesday!
We hope you had a great Memorial Day Weekend! It was fun on our end, even though it was a bit wet.
We have so much happening at Steve's over the next couple of weeks. We hope you will plan to spend some time with us at one or more of these events.
We are looking forward to June, and we have two special events for you to consider.
On June 3, we have a special tasting event with California Winery, Brassfield Estates. We will be tasting five of their wines. Their new Texas rep stated that their wines are currently not available in retail stores. We will be the first to share them with you and our other customers here in the Denton area. Read more about Brassfield Estate Winery.
On June 9, we have a Guest Chef Dinner with the folks from Di Abruzzo here in Denton. They are planning a 5-course dinner paired with carefully selected wines from our cellar. Yes, I am getting fancy by calling our bottle room a cellar. :-) Reservations are $50 a person, and that will be applied to the tab the night of the dinner. Reserve today as we have limited seating for the evening.
Visit our Events page to see all our upcoming events.
Have a great week!
From all of us here at Steve's Wine Bar, Cheers!
Denton Chamber of Commerce: Best Small Business of the Year.
May 29, 2025 at 12:07 PM
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Attaining the WSET (Wine and Education Spirits Trust) Level 3 certification is a wonderful feeling. It is a test with about a 50% passing rate, an assessment that includes a tasting section, a multiple-choice portion, and a four ‘short’ answer questions. It’s that final part that most students dread…while called short written answer, each question has at least four subset questions that require some combination of name/identify, describe, explain, elaborate, and evaluate. At the end of the 150-minute test, my hand was cramping because I had written 8 full pages of facts, reasons, and justifications about Bordeaux, German, Carménère (a wine I had just put on the wine club a month before but the day of the test blanked on a couple of details), sparkling, service, and a few other topics I have pushed about of my mind. They even asked me something about the size of the glasses for Port and standard serving sizes in milliliters for a certain number of bottles! In total, I attended about 32 hours of face-to-face time with my instructor (Dilek Caner, a Master of Wine herself) and cohort, and I studied on my own approximately 90 hours. It is a feat that I am happy to be on the other side of (by the way, it took almost 2 months to get the results back!), especially having passed it with distinction, the highest recognition.
Having the WSET 3 coupled with my Certified Specialist of Wine from the Society of Wine Educators (a test, believe it or not, that I spent even longer studying for, and it helped prepare me for the WSET 3) means that I am certainly recognized as a wine nerd, or, as some say, a cork dork. Many people in the industry hold their WSET 2, which I achieved in 2022, but having diversified wine certifications makes me not only a specialist, but able to hold my own amongst other sommeliers and wine experts. I often get asked if I am a sommelier, and I always say yes. Even though my certifications don’t use that specific word, a sommelier is a person who plans wine lists and food pairings, has vast knowledge on production and varieties, and can make recommendations to customers, and that is exactly what I do. I am so pleased and excited to have hit this third level, and I am now pondering how to propel my acumen into even more extensive wine education for our Steve’s Wine Bar customers.
May 10, 2025 at 3:12 PM
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Andrea Bocelli and his viticulturist brother Alberto are behind the Bocelli Family Wines brand. Their homebase is a family farm near Volterra, near Pisa, and they make wines from several regions in Italy. This particular Pinot Grigio is sourced from the hills of Colli Euganei in the Veneto, where old vines thrive. Amazingly, they grow just enough grapes to make about one bottle of wine per plant, which results in a remarkably low yield that produces intense, well-integrated aromas and flavors. Pinot Grigio is often categorized as an accessible, almost provincial wine, but this rendition offers something different: due to extended maceration, it has pronounced color and concentrated characteristics. It was also aged on the lees for a few months, which ensures additional texture. Floral notes abound, specifically acacia and peach blossom, transforming to Meyer lemon, pear, mint, and sea salt on the palate. Paired with your favorite shellfish from Shuck Me, the ‘Operetta’ will make you want to become a Bocelli aficionado.
Yakima Valley is Washington’s oldest established wine region, and the Miller family, owners of Airfield Estates, have been planting a myriad of grapes there since 1968. Their fascinating story blends history and ingenuity. More than two decades before the Millers turned to farming, part of their property operated as a training base during WWII for hundreds of Army Air Corps pilots. Even to this day, Airfield uses several of the original airplane hangars as farm storage facilities. They also strive to pay tribute to WWII heroes and veterans through their range of 100% estate grown wines. Lees aging and time in both stainless steel and French oak, both old and new, have transformed this Viognier into an unctuous, mouth-coating wine. Floral on the nose, the palate brings spiced applesauce, pear, ripe banana, butterscotch, brioche, and cashew. The salmon burger from GreenHouse will hold up nicely paired alongside the Airfield.
Cantine Birgi is a captivating brand because it was founded in 1960 by ten viticulturalists who are deeply inspired by Sicily. In their words, “The cooperative has been able to enhance and renew the winemaking heritage of the Sicans, Phoenicians, Elimi, Arabs and Normans, peoples who have enriched these lands over the centuries.” A nod to that history, ‘Liburna’ refers to a bireme, which is a type of intimidating-looking warship used by the ancient Romans with two banks of oars, known for its speed, maneuverability, and the ability to carry up to 10 tons of cargo. For Cantine Birgi, the ‘Liburna’ line spotlights monovarietals that thrive in Sicily, like the most planted red, Nero d’Avola. A fresh, fruity rendition, this wine has no oak influence and was aged on the lees for six months, adding to its body. This wine would do well with a slight chill, bringing out dark cherry, black raspberry, subtle spice, herbs, and a hint of white pepper. A fun culinary experience would be to enjoy the ‘Liburna’ with seared tuna tataki from Blue Ginger.
The vineyards for Benton Hills are located in southeastern Washington state, the name coming from several arid southwest sloping hills that are home to some of the Columbia Valley’s best sites, including Goose Gap and Red Mountain AVAs. Ancient basalt flows formed the Benton Hills, which have become ideal for grape-growing, having previously been used for cattle-ranching as well as for orchards. Crafted through sustainable winemaking, this ‘proprietary’ blend is made up of 66% Syrah, 28% Merlot, and 6% Cabernet Sauvignon in a medium-bodied style perfect for warmer weather. The three varieties were blended together after being fermented separately in oak, and then the blend was matured an additional 12 months before bottling. A crowd-pleasing wine, the Benton Hills Red Blend conveys dark fruits like black cherry, blackberry, plum, with the addition of savory traits like black pepper and subtle gamey notes. It would be even more gorgeous with a side of white truffle pomme frites from Hannah’s.
Montalcino is considered Tuscany’s most famous wine region, mostly because of how reputable and powerful Brunello di Montalcino is, which is an expensive and long-aged Sangiovese (it must undergo a minimum of 5 years in oak and bottle). While the Sasso di Sole you are drinking is not a Brunello, it is a delectable wine also made from 100% Sangiovese with an interesting aging regimen. It experienced four months in stainless steel tanks to preserve some fruity flavors plus nine months in large oak barrels from Slavonia, a region of Croatia. Sasso di Sole is a family-run winery with vineyards within the UNESCO site Val d'Orcia, a preserved landscape that was once painted by Renaissance artists. The Terzuoli family’s mantra is “Respect for the land is the only way to obtain good wine.” They have been making wine since the 17th century, and their passion shows in the glass. Rose aromas invite you in, and cherry, strawberry, plum, dried herbs, earth, and tobacco entice your palate. A slew of dishes would pair well with this Sangiovese, but if a picnic is in your future, a charcuterie assortment of meats and cheeses would be lovely.
After Shiraz, Cabernet Sauvignon is Australia’s most planted grape, indicating its true global domination. It covers over 5% of the world's vineyards, accounting for about 850,000 acres. Used for both Old and New World wines, in both the northern and southern hemispheres, Cab is truly a powerhouse. This version is from Strathbogie Ranges (so fun to say!), a wine region in southern Victoria, not too far from Melbourne. The Fowles family (yep, their logo shows a flock of birds!) has created the Farm to Table line, highlighting the fact that they are not only grape growers but sheep farmers as well. They note, “These wines embody our connection to the land and our enjoyment of it through quality food and wine” and that this Cab is meant to “complement the softer texture of farm raised meat.” With notes of blackberry, blackcurrant, plum, milk chocolate, hints of vanilla, and oak spice from time spent in old and new French oak, this Cab is both easy-drinking and perfect with or without food. But if you do grab a bite when imbibing a glass, obviously beef is its soul mate!
Steve and Karen visited Korta on their recent travels and had nothing but amazing things to say about the wines and the hospitality. Founded in 1997 by the Korta-Bucarey family, Bodegas y Viñedos Korta is one of the most important wineries in the Maule region of Chile. The main area they grow grapes is in Sagrada Familia Valley, a very old region in Chile, renowned for its agricultural development, farming traditions, and exceptional soil quality. Sagrada Familia Valley, surrounded by hills, has a very warm microclimate. In addition, its proximity to the sea means that coastal winds descend into the valley, ensuring a large diurnal range in temperature which preserves the acidity in the grapes. The Reserve de Familia blend is considered their most premium offering, their ‘Opus One,’ but at a much more affordable price. With 40% Petit Verdot, 20% Syrah, 20% Carménère, and 20% Cabernet Franc, it packs a punch due to time spent in old and new French and American oak. A post-fermentation maceration guarantees a dark inky color plus robust flavors and firm tannins. Plum, blackberry, dried basil, black pepper, dark chocolate, spice, tobacco, and oak spice will dance on your palate. Enjoy a glass with a couple of chorizo tacos from La Fondita.
Goosecross has an incredible origin story. In their words: “Family legend goes that one fall, as a flock of geese was migrating south for the winter, a male injured his wing over the Goosecross property and had to drop out of formation. Since geese mate for life, his female partner dropped out of the flock, too, and the pair settled on State Lane to heal. Once they realized California winters weren’t as bad as they had imagined, they stayed put.” Founders and mates for life Dave Ficeli and Christi Coors Ficeli created Goosecross with the idea of merging innovative wines and contemporary style with old-fashioned hospitality (Steve and Karen used to be club members!). This exultant red from Napa Valley is a very precise blend of 33.5% Cabernet Sauvignon, 18.7% Petite Sirah, 15% Merlot, 12.5% Syrah (12.5%), Sangiovese, 6.3% Zinfandel, and 1.5% Petit Verdot. What makes this wine unique is that each of the seven grape varieties was picked, fermented, and aged separately for 12 months in French oak; then the individual varieties were united and aged for an additional 13 months. Robust but velvety, the Goosecross is imbued with traits of blackcurrant, black plum, boysenberry, cinnamon stick, cedar, mocha, and vanilla bean. Korean BBQ meatballs from the Blind Fox food truck, close to Denton County Brewing, would be fabulous alongside the Goosecross.
*Baby Big Dog: Platinum customers can take home one bottle of this wine plus a different selection as part of their club (of course, additional bottles may be purchased at the platinum discount).
May 1, 2025 at 3:44 AM
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Torrontés is Argentina’s flagship white variety, and what makes it is unique is that the grape is inherently aromatic. There are certain varieties, all white, like Sauvignon Blanc, Riesling, Muscat, and Gewürztraminer that you can almost smell before you even put your nose in the glass, and Torrontés joins that list. The grape has specific terpenes, organic compounds that contribute significantly to a grape’s aroma and flavor, that are brought out even more during the winemaking process. Geraniol is the primary terpene, and you might have smelled something similar in a citronella candle or in rose essential oil. Torrontés also offers linalool, which evokes lavender, and nerol, which contributes citrus. In total, there are somewhere between 800 and 1000 chemical compounds in wine, which really sums up just how complex it can be. The Zolo Torrontés is light, delicate, and crisp, with – natch – white flower and geranium aromas plus lemon, lime, green apple, and white peach on the palate. It’s a quintessentially warm weather wine although at 13.6% ABV, it is powerful. Imbibe in a glass alongside the ceviche salad from El Matador.
Rosé season has arrived with this lively pink-hued wine crafted from Pinotage, South Africa’s signature grape. Pinotage is a crossing of Pinot Noir and Cinsault (known as Hermitage at the time). It’s a fascinating story: Stellenbosch University professor Abraham Izak Perold brushed a male Hermitage flower against a pollen donor Pinot Noir in his garden of residence at Welgevallen Experimental Farm in 1925. You might think he would have done this in the university gardens, but no, he used his own gardens and then seemingly forgot his experiment. Two years later, Perold moved and left his wild, unkempt gardens behind; a young lecturer cycling by the residence (who did know about the experiment) came upon the seedlings and grabbed them before a landscaping team could tidy up. The crossing was then replicated in a lab setting, and Pinotage thrived! It combines the delicate but powerful Pinot with disease-resistant Cinsault, and it creates an exciting version in the Backsberg ‘Ella’ rosé. Wild strawberry and grapefruit open up on the palate with an addition of mint and something soft like bubblegum. Served with a Mediterranean platter of olives, this wine will shine even more.
The wine region of Alentejo in Portugal is the largest wine production area in Portugal, occupying nearly a third of the overall country. In addition to excellent red blends, Alentejo is also known for cork production. Portugal exports 60% of the world’s cork, and the evidence can be seen on the adorable label on the Casa Relvas ‘São Miguel do Sul.’ Not only is it made out of cork, but there is a napper resting under a cork tree, of which the estate has nearly 2000 acres, nearly three times the total of vines under acre there. The Relvas family believes they owe the environment “a debt of gratitude” and have been converting their vineyards to organic farming over time; they use nearby wetlands as a water recycling source and hundreds of Merino sheep weed (and fertilize!) the soil. This red blend is made from indigenous varieties Alicante Bouschet (for color), Aragoñez (one of Tempranillo’s many nicknames, adding red fruits and acidity), and Trincaderia (imparting spicy, herby notes and tannin). Red plum, cherry, spice, cedar, and tobacco are commonly experienced with this wine. Red beans and rice from The Catch would be a delectable pairing.
San Silvestro has been around since 1871 when Giovanni Sartirano first began to produce and sell wines in the Langhe region of Piemonte, in northwest Italy. Four generations of winemaking have made the brand important and reputable. While this region is known for Nebbiolo, the luscious Barbera grape is the most planted grape, accounting for 30% of total plantings in Piemonte. Already a food-friendly and approachable variety, by making it in an appassimento style, this ‘Passito’ Barbera has truly become extraordinary. When picked, the grapes were fully ripe and then were dried for several months indoors under warm, dry conditions until the water in each grape evaporated. This process concentrates the sugars, flavors, and acidity, and it contributes to a velvety mouthfeel. On the nose there are plush, ripe fruits, and the palate zings with blueberry, cherry jam, plum, vanilla, and red licorice. Something bold is needed to hold up to the ‘Passito,’ so the rack of lamb from Hannah’s Off the Square would be a remarkable accompaniment.
Sagrantino is a variety found mostly in Umbria, from central Italy, and it’s known as an intensely tannic, bold grape that also transmits high levels of antioxidants to its consumer. Combined with two other well-known Italian varieties, Primitivo and Sangiovese, it becomes a well-balanced dance that celebrates plush but rustic reds. The Bonnarigo line, crafted by our friends at Messina Hof, is more exclusive and experimental, focusing on the family’s heritage. “The Bonarrigo Family began making wine in Messina, Sicily over 200 years ago. For seven generations the Bonarrigos have produced wines of passion and heart. The tradition started in Italy, took root in America, and today the family continues crafting soulful wines in Texas while honoring its Italian lineage.” Marrying Old World grapes with modern techniques in a Texas setting, this wine is delicious, savory, and striking. With characteristics like tart cherry, dried herbs, stewed tomato, smoked meats, and spice, it will hold up nicely to Banksy’s Baked Ziti from Graffiti Pasta.
From the Markham Vineyards website: “With Bordeaux in our blood, it’s no surprise we were one of the first California wineries to grow and specialize in Merlot.” They have 260 acres of sustainably farmed vineyards and land, resulting in unique expressions of Merlot throughout the North Coast. This region experiences cool coastal breezes from the Pacific that temper the warm, sunny days, allowing the grapes to slowly ripen while retaining acidity. The soils, a mix of clay, loam, and gravel, contribute to structured but velvety tannins and mineral undertones. Such a diverse terroir brings complexity to the ‘Six Stack,’ which is rounded out by a small amount of Cabernet Sauvignon, enhancing plush fruit like fresh raspberry and blueberry, dark cherry, and satsuma plum, and adding layers of depth, culminating in rich milk chocolate. By the way, Markham boasts an all-female winemaking team and women-led brand, including winemaker Kimberlee Nicholls, who has been there since 1993, and they partner with organizations that advocate for women's equity in the alcohol, culinary, and hospitality industries. Celebrate the sheer beauty of this wine with a pulled pork sandwich from Anderson’s.
We have another grape that has traveled across the globe to find a home in Luján de Cuyo, one of the most premium departments in Mendoza. Bonarda also has many nicknames (in California, it’s Charbano), but it started as Douce Noir in Savoie, France in the early 1800s. There are multiple Bonarda grapes in Italy, but apparently they are genetically different than this Bonarda (confused yet?). The variety is the second most planted red grape in Argentina, and it is on the rise in terms of production and popularity. What you are drinking is from Fincas Don Martino, and they are very much in the old school camp, wanting to match fruit with savory notes, like cigar box and leather. The fact that this wine is sourced from low-yielding old vines planted 99 years ago means that you will get intense concentration of flavor. To stand up to the savory aromatics, fruits like cherry, plum, fig, and blackberry abound, finishing with cardamom spice. Compared with a Malbec, Bonarda has lower tannins and higher acidity, and this rendition also has a welcome rusticity. Empanadas will go perfectly with the Martino ‘Viña Violeta’ Old Vine Bonarda.
The ‘Triple Junction’ is a wine like no other. Obsidian began in 2003 when founders Arpad Molnar, Peter Molnar, and Michael Terrien planted vines in an abandoned walnut orchard half a mile up in the Mayacama Mountains. While rocky soil is not that unusual in a vineyard, what they discovered was a ridge of obsidian glass throughout and that they were planting directly on an active volcanic shield. They embraced the geology of the place and the name, researching to determine how volcanic soil would impact the taste of their wines. And then they expanded even more, sourcing grapes from multiple volcanic sites. “The Triple Junction is rare convergence of three tectonic plates that form the subduction volcanoes of California and the Pacific Northwest.” Thus, the ‘Triple Junction’ Volcanic Red came in existence from three different states: California, Washington, and Oregon. It is a blend of 50% Cabernet Sauvignon, 27% Malbec, 15% Petite Sirah, and 8% Tempranillo, and even the Hungarian oak barrels used for maturation were crafted from volcanic soils! This magnificent wine showcases the art of blending multiple varieties and sites to create something unique, conveying blackcurrant, black cherry, boysenberry, eucalyptus, black olive, chocolate, and graphite. A bison burger would be an excellent match for the ‘Triple Junction,’ but any juicy burger will be transcendent.
Apr 3, 2025 at 4:50 AM
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Texas: the iconic state that in many ways personifies America. It's cowboy culture and Tex Mex. It’s wide-open land and relatively mild winters, especially in the south. It’s (also relatively) low cost of living and opportunities. It’s no wonder so many Americans move to and stay in Texas or never leave. Many reasons motivate a permanent or temporary move: affordability, access to nature, healthcare, education, and safety are all generally considered main priorities. Texas is a huge state with varying types of cities and smaller towns to suit those individual or family needs and wants.
Just 40 miles away from Dallas, Denton competes with the big cities on everything from live music venues to higher education. Denton’s population as of 2023 was around 160,000; it’s a mid-size city with a lot to offer a young graduate, growing family, and musicians craving a smaller city.
Denton’s housing market is higher than the national and state average at $500,000. Average rent is around $1,500 monthly. Major employers include Peterbilt Motors, Sally Beauty, and Acme Brick. Other large industries in Denton are higher education at Texas Women’s University and healthcare. The median household income of Denton averages around $73,000 per year.
Denton Independent School District scores high in teachers, diversity, and college preparation. Graduation rates are at 97% with higher-than-average proficiency rates. The city also offers 91 private schools, according to Niche.com, for parents looking for an alternative option to public education. Denton is home to two state universities: University of North Texas and Texas Woman’s University.
Denton is a musical town; multiple genres can be heard live throughout the city. Check out Steve’s Wine Bar for jazz performances. Dan’s Silverleaf venue hosts many Texas based performers and offers a songwriter’s open mic every Monday. There are 37 trails for running or biking along with 41 parks for families. Golfers have access to 32 courses within a 20-mile radius of Denton, 4 being within the city. Denton has a great food scene with BBQ and Tex-Mex being the main cuisines. Popular restaurants include Juicy Pig Barbecue and Mi Ranchito.
You can read more online at WorldAtlas.com.
Sarah Simpson March 22, 2025
Mar 28, 2025 at 5:01 PM
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Founder (and magnificently monikered) Bonventura Maschio converted a distillery into a state-of-the-art winery in 1973, thus committing to crafting Prosecco. Made from the Glera grape, Prosecco has lively, fun bubbles that are perfect for any occasion. Here’s a fun fact: in 2009, the Prosecco region in the Veneto renamed the sparkling wine’s grape from Prosecco Tondo to Glera (with the approval from the EU). Their objective was to prevent other Italian regions from producing this world-renowned sparkling because moving forward, it had to come from the stated place of origin, Prosecco (ahh, the EU rules and regulations!). So while many confuse Prosecco as a grape, style of wine, and/or location, at one time all of these were true (and two still are)! The Maschio is a dry bubbly with crisp acidity and floral aromas of orange blossom and wisteria. When tasted, various citrus flavors along with peach and almond are unleashed. The Lemon Herb Shrimp plate from Coco Shrimp would be a delicious pairing.
It’s another European wine named after its world-famous region! According to the Wines of Portugal website, this northwestern area is “one of the most original and distinctive regions of Portugal, marked by an extreme Atlantic influence, in a green and humid landscape, with cool temperatures and abundant rainfall.” It is also the largest Denomination of Origin in Portugal, occupying nearly 60,000 acres. The theories surrounding the region’s colorful name range from how green and lush the Portuguese landscapes are to how fresh, acidic, and fruity wines are to how they are meant to be drunk young. Whatever theory you like, Vinho Verde is traditionally tangy, aromatic, and refreshing. Made from indigenous grapes Loureiro, Arinto, Trajadura, and Avesso, the first sip showcases electric acidity, imparting green apples, lemon curd, stone fruits, and a tinge of minerality. Enjoy a glass with steamed or spicy edamame from Komodo Loco for a pleasing culinary experience.
Winemaker Graziano Prà says, “I only guide the wine. I don’t improve what nature offers, but, rather, lead it in the right direction towards an elegant, precious wine” (it probably sounds even more alluring in Italian). Named after Otto, a Border Collie that was part of the family for 15 years, this wine is such a fascinating study into Italian white grapes. Soave, a zone in Verona, is made from the Garganega grape (Europe, you did it again!). Adding ‘Classico’ to the name is important because Classico sites in Italy are revered as prototypical of the style and more superior than just a ‘regular’ wine. Indelibly floral, with aromas of Hawthorn flower (a gorgeous white species emitting almond, honeyed scents) and jasmine, the ‘Otto’ also conjures up green apple to coalesce with almond, mineral, and saline notes, spinetingling acidity, and a bit of richness due to aging on the lees (expired yeast cells). You ‘otto’ partake of a glass alongside with a warm bowl of vegetable soup from The Chestnut Tree.
Completing the quadruple threat of wines with names based on their location, the Vignerons des Monts de Bourgogne Rouge, or more simply, Pinot Noir from Burgundy, is a glimpse into why Burgundy is the spiritual heartland of this grape variety. The history of the area is transfixing, from Romans drinking watered down versions over 2000 years ago to monks of the medieval age making huge advancements in viticulture and winemaking to Louis XIV being prescribed wine to cure his ailments. Napoleon I then really made an impact through his Codes of Inheritance, which passed land down to any and all children. Currently, vineyards encompass such a small amount for each landowner (generally) that Burgundy also has many cooperatives and négociants, or merchants, to make and sell wine. This particular wine is sourced from vineyards in the Côte d’Or, the very best region for Pinot Noir, and the Mâconnais, which is at the far south of Burgundy. In the glass, red and black fruits pop, like redcurrant, cherry, blackberry, and blackcurrant, assuaged by some subtle but quintessential forest floor and mushroom characteristics. Try it with the Red’s smoked turkey sandwich at Render Texas Delicatessen.
Navarra, in north-central Spain, shares a border with France; its closest big city is Pamplona, where the Feast of San Fermín, or the Running of the Bulls, happens each July. Navarra is often overshadowed by its more famous neighbor Rioja, which specializes in bold, oaked Tempranillos, but Navarra is gaining in its reputation for red wines. It was once known as the epicenter of rosados, or rosés, due to its proximity with France and the moderating influence of both the Bay of Biscay to the west and the Pyrennees to the northeast. Garnacha is the most planted variety here, and in the case of the Hacienda Uvanis, this rendition is fruit-forward but concentrated, coming from older vines. Ripe plum, black cherry, fennel, plus hints of balsamic and earth envelop the mouth. With fresh acidity, medium body, and medium tannins, this wine is the perfect transition into warmer weather. Serve it with salmon, either sushi or hibachi, from Blue Ginger Japanese Bistro.
Bodegas Bianchi is one of the oldest family-owned wineries in Argentina, founded in 1928 by Italian-born Valentín Bianchi, who was born in 1887. Bianchi moved to Argentina in 1910, and he realized his dream of making wines in San Rafael, one of the two recognized Denominations of Controlled Origin (DOC) in Mendoza (the other is Luján du Cuyo). Bodegas Bianchi is quite possibly the most famous winery in San Rafael, and this wine is noted as ‘Oasis Sur’ (or ‘South Oasis’) because of the various soil types and microclimates which can impart the best expressions of Bianchi wines. Also, cool Andean air gets funneled into the vineyards, resulting in longer hangtimes for the grapes in the sunny, warm climate of San Rafael. In the glass, this can translate to a wine of more complexity and structure. Notable aromas and flavors in this Malbec are fresh plum, blackberry, black cherry, fig, and spice. The blue cheese wedge from L'Amitié would hold up nicely to this tantalizing wine.
Some of you may remember a Pinot Noir we had awhile back from Ministry of the Vinterior. The guys behind this punnily named wine, Chris Nickolopoulos and Elijah Pfister, are also behind The Dirty Pure Project. Their unapologetic red blend is called ‘The Bomb,’ and it might be decorated with a few choice ‘F’s’ on the label. ‘The Bomb’ has been around for 10 years, starting with the 2015 vintage when they were playing around with wine they had left in barrels, wanting to make, in their words, a “solid red blend.” Nickolopoulos and Pfister craft a different combination each year, challenging themselves to create the most outstanding blend possible. The 2022 vintage is highlights Grenache, Merlot, and Cabernet Sauvignon, which sees a minimum of 6 months in used American and French oak. A quaffable wine with strawberry jam, raspberry, red plum, black mission fig, and toasty vanilla oak, ‘The Bomb’ will explode alongside your choice of BBQ from The Brisket Burger.
‘Pets,’ or Petite Sirah, has its origins in France, where it is known as Grand Durif. With small, compact grapes that pack a punch, Petite Sirah can knock you out with its concentration of fruit aromas and flavors but also its color (it is known as a tooth-stainer, after all!). This version from Vinum Cellars is also named for pup Tanker, who belonged to one of the grape growers that Richard Bruno and Chris Condos, Vinum founders and winemakers, work with regularly. Although Tanker barked at Bruno and Condos whenever they would visit, they were inspired by the canine, whom they called “dark colored, long legged and bold, but has the potential to be your best friend.” Thus, this wine can feel like a nice companion, playfully offering up notes of boysenberry, blueberry, blackcurrant, licorice, vanilla, dark cocoa, and coffee, with a lingering finish. Imbibe with some carnitas tacos from Taqueria Guanajuato, and your day will be made!
This moody, evocative statement is on Torbreck’s website to pique interest in this wine: “You’d imagine a high country Scottish woodcutter might like a satisfying red at the days end – something rich, warming, and full bodied…” While it’s uncertain what exactly any of this means (ha!), the ‘Woodcutter’s’ Shiraz is, of course, just that wine. David Powell, who established Torbreck in 1994, was indeed a lumberjack for a short time in the Inverness Forest in Scotland (so maybe he is the woodcutter?!), but somehow after nearly two decades since Torbreck’s founding, Powell got the ax (couldn’t help it – but he does now work on winemaking projects with his son). However, the ‘Woodcutter’s’ Shiraz has stood the test of time…despite all of the drama. Full-bodied and luxurious, there are plentiful fruits including blueberry, mulberry, black plum, and blackberry; these are complemented with rosemary, thyme, and some sandalwood. The next time you are in Sanger, get a steak from the Parker Brothers Trail Dust, which will be an excellent companion for this Shiraz.
Mar 6, 2025 at 5:46 AM
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Liebfraumilch, a popular wine style, translates to “Our Lady’s Milk” (as in the Virgin Mary) and has had a fascinating role in wine history. Dating back to 1744, it was an extremely expensive and sought-after wine. Then, it had to be made within close proximity to the tower of the Liebfrauenkirche church in Worms, Germany (so, a very limited area). But in 1910, the Chamber of Commerce of the city of Worms decided to take away its distinct and strict designation so that Liebfraumilch could be made in any major German wine region, and so the wine lost its exclusivity and, to some, its allure. According to the wine laws in Germany, it must be made with at least 70% of one of these aromatic white varieties: Riesling, Silvaner, Müller-Thurgau, and Kerner (this blend has all four). At just 9% ABV, the Liebfraumilch’s kiss of residual sugar is balanced beautifully by its tingling acidity. Stone fruit and citrus aromas waft through the glass, and green apple, more citrus, and a touch of minerality hug the palate. A creamy goat’s cheese or chèvre would be a delectable snack for this really remarkable wine.
Grüner Veltliner translates to the “Green Wine of Veltlin,” an area located in the lower Alps of the Valtellina region of Italy. With a hue that can appear light green, it is Austria’s most popular variety, accounting for 75% of their plantings. Interestingly, it is not Hungary’s #1 grape (or even in the top 10!); this rendition has seen an abundance of sunshine in Pannon, which is in the wine region of Dunántúl in the southwest of the country. Winemaker Peter Binderer named the brand after Lazlo Károlyi, a collaborator and an aristocrat who happens to love the grape variety. This expression from Count Karolyi is a true representation of what it does best: skyrocketing acidity complemented by lime, lemon, starfruit, gooseberry, and always a hint of white pepper. Enjoy this wine with your choice of spicy curry dishes from Oriental Garden.
Agiorgitiko is the most planted red grape in Greece, but it is one we haven’t even yet profiled at the bar! The best examples are grown in Nemea, which is in the upper part of the Peloponnese. Wine has been cultivated there for thousands of years, dating back to the 5th century BC (or perhaps earlier). Wine is referenced in the Greek myth about Heracles (we know him by his Roman name Hercules) who was sent to the region to slay the Nemean lion. Established for not quite as long, the Troupis family has been farming in Nemea since the 1970s, having grown grapes for their family until they decided to take the commercial leap. This ‘Fteri’ Agiorgitiko (‘fteri’ translates to fern and is the name of the nearby town) is a light-to-medium bodied red that would benefit from a slight chill. And the color is unique, a clear ruby with purple glints in the mid-rim. Agiorgitiko is an alternative to Pinot Noir and Beaujolais, but the variety does convey some characteristic spice. Additionally, pomegranate, cranberry, plum, and a punch of butter caramel (according to the winemaker!) make this just one fun wine. It would be gorgeous with a tomato-based dish like shakshuka, which you can find on 940’s Kitchen and Cocktails brunch menu.
The charming and picturesque town of in the province of Verona is home to the San Cassiano farm. Albino Sella planted the first vines there in 1959, and after years of toil, Albino and his son decided to sell to a local cooperative, which is extremely common throughout winegrowing regions in Europe. Albino’s grandson Mirko, who had initially pursued a career in law, caught the family farming bug, and in 2002, he began using the family’s harvest to make wines under the San Cassiano name. Today, with only 14 acres of vines, Mirko produces small lots of mostly Valpolicella, but also Garganega, the grape used in the white wine Soave, as well as international varieties Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon and world-class olive oil. Valpolicella is usually a blend of indigenous grapes, and in this case, it is 80% Corvina, 10% Molinara, and 10% Rondinella. Only 100 cases were made of this vintage, so what we are tasting is rare indeed. Layers of spiced cherries, cooking spices, almond, tobacco, and leather compound with a lasting finish. The elegance of the San Cassiano Valpolicella will elevate an order of boneless wings from Boomer Jack’s.
Chile is considered one of the most pristine winemaking regions in the world. Phylloxera, which in the later part of the 17th century devastated vineyards throughout Europe, Australia, New Zealand, North Africa, and even neighbor Argentina, has had little impact in Chile. This is because it is sandwiched between mountains, an ocean, a desert, and vast icefields. Ventisquero’s motto is “Challenging Spirit,” with innovation being a primary pillar of their brand. In a nod to Patagonia, which lies in the far south of Chile, Ventisquero (which means glacier) has named this particular line for ‘Grey,’ a famous glacier that is about 17 miles long that can be experienced at the Torres del Paine National Park. This wine is made from 100% Carménère, Chile’s adopted grape from Bordeaux, and it comes from a single block of vines that exhibit the best that the grape can offer. The result in your glass is blackberry, blueberry, and black cherry exploding together with some savory notes like pepper, spice, earth, and graphite. A natural wonder all its own, the ‘Grey’ is best served alongside pork, so grab whatever pork dish the Insurgent Food Truck has on menu (pork belly or loin—it all works!) and enjoy!
Arguably one of the most famous regions in the world, Bordeaux wines can sell for hundreds of dollars, and, for premier crus, the price can fetch four figures. There are businesses set up to sell such wines before they are even released, called en primeurs, as many collectors consider fine wines an investment. While we don’t have any premier crus to share this month, we do have a Bordeaux of exceptional quality crafted from rock star winemaker Guy Bailly. It is not uncommon to see winemakers who have a premium brand, like Château le Bourdieu, who also have a more value-driven second line, à la Château Meilhan; the difference is that both lines are made in the exact same estate. For a fraction of the cost, Château Meilhan does not skimp on quality. With 47% Cabernet Sauvignon, 50% Merlot, and 3% Petit Verdot, this Left Bank Bordeaux seduces with ripe black plum, blackcurrant, blueberry, licorice, spice, and smoke. A very French dish like duck confit would be a perfect accompaniment.
Los Haroldos has a story that needs to be made into a movie. The protagonist would be Haroldo Santos Falasco riding his bicycle through small town Chacabuco, near Buenos Aires, marketing and delivering his wines to locals. These wines had been his dream since 1939. From their website, “Haroldo thought big and the bicycle he used to deliver wines began to become too small for him,” and his dream grew each year until currently, the Los Haroldos name is exported to 42 countries worldwide. Haroldo became affectionately known as “Don Lolo” to his children and grandchildren, and his bicycle now sits on display in their world-class barrel room. Now Jorge Felasco sits at the helm, and the brand has been renamed ‘Los Haroldos’ in honor of his father and brother, and in a play on words, an angel can be seen on each label. This red blend utilizes three Bordeaux grapes that Argentina does so well, composed of 60% Malbec, 25% Cabernet Sauvignon, and 15% Petit Verdot. Its violet aromas evolve into ripe cherries, blackberries, blackcurrant, and spice on the palate. A grilled pepper steak or the smothered steak from Cartright’s Ranch House would hit the spot.
Tempranillo goes by so many different names throughout the Iberian Peninsula, it is almost legendary! An early ripening grape that thrives in the heat, Tempranillo can be known as Ull de Lebre in Catalunya, Tinta de Toro in Toro, Cencibel in La Mancha, Tinta Roriz or Aragonéz in Portugal, and Tinta Fina in Ribera del Duero, which is where Bardos is crafted. Situated at an altitude of over 3,000 feet, near the headwaters of the Duero River, the vineyards are considered extreme: “When we created Bardos, we had the option of settling in the prestigious Golden Mile, as big wineries do, or complicating our lives and settling in the coldest, highest and most difficult area of the entire denomination.” Winemaker Raúl Acha was up for the challenge, hand-harvesting and creating wines that find the balance between power and elegance. This wine is mostly Tempranillo with a small amount of Albillo Mayor, an indigenous white variety. Aged 12 months in oak vessels of different sizes, the Bardos imparts blackberry, plum, black cherry, spice, vanilla, and tobacco with velvety tannins. Change up your cuisine routine and have a glass with some Afro-Fusion food from Hera’s Kitchen, which is located inside TWU at Oakland Café.
Feb 6, 2025 at 6:43 AM
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