WINE REVIEW: Kerrville Hills Winery, 2017 Tannat, Rustic Spur Vineyard, Texas Hill Country, TX ($40)

by Andrew Chalk

Appearance: An opaque ruby monster. Bright and youthful;

Nose: Protean, complex, notes of blueberries, mint, cigar box;

Palate: Grippy tannins, forceful acidity, blueberry and red fruit. Notable for the power of its fruit flavors.

This is a fine example of Texas Tannat, indeed a fine example of Tannat from anywhere. It would pair with lamb, elk, venison, or beef. Or it can be aged for 5-10 years.

Kerrville Hills Winery is undergoing some big changes. Well-known consultant and co-founder of Bending Branch Winery, John Rivenburgh, purchased it in late 2018 and has improved the winemaking and grape sourcing since. This wine is a good example with its origins in the Rustic Spur Vineyard.

Sample