by Andrew Chalk
Ron Yates Wines between Johnson City and Hye is the home to two magnificent examples of the state dog of Texas - the Blue Lacy. Elway is the elder statesman and so named because owner Ron Yates is a huge Denver Broncos fan. Blueberry is only 2 and was named by Yates’ daughters.
Blue Lacys are thought to derive from greyhounds, bloodhounds and coyotes. They are intelligent dogs and were used to deal with a wild hog problem in Texas. They would herd the hogs into pens, a skill they picked up quickly.
At Ron Yates Wines Elway and Blueberry have a much more recreational life chasing ball and amusing the numerous visitors that throng the tasting room patio every weekend.
