Wedding Oak Wines - "I DO"

The 400-year old Wedding Oak still grows just outside of San Saba, Texas. Under this mighty oak numerous couple have pledged their undying love and commitment to each other. The roots of this historic tree are the foundation upon which Mike McHenry and a small group of his close friends built the Wedding Oak Winery. In just a few short years, Mike and his associates have built a beautiful winery complete with award winning wines. There is something here for everybody.

Wedding Oak had two tasting rooms for Texas Wine visitors to enjoy. The original one in San Saba is located in the historic downtown area. The Fredericksburg location is located at Wildseed Farms on 290. Here, Mike has begun the process of expanding his acres under vine. There is a well appointed tasting room with beautiful views and lots of outdoor seating. Most importantly, there are many wonderful wines to indulge in. Here are my thoughts on some of them.

Terra Blanc 2014 – only 375 cases produced 4 1/2 stars

Light and Crisp - This glorious white is a blend of marsanne, roussanne and viognier, Rhone whites. The nose is brilliant, color a bright hay. Racy acidity is tempered with lemon zest and tangerine. A sure favorite to pair with grilled gulf shrimp.

Viognier 2015 – 220 cases produced 4 stars

Red Drinkers White - Made from their own High Valley Vineyard in San Saba estate grown viognier, this lovely white offers essence of lemon meringue on the nose. It too is bright in color. There is a softer acidity and medium long finish. A great wine to serve with white wing dove.

Tre Vi 2015 – 427 cases produced 3 1/2 stars

Complex Conundrum - Vermentino, verdelho and viognier are blended together to create this unique medium bodied white wine. Reminiscent of vintage Champagne, there is a slight breadiness that adds complexity. Yes, a portion of the juice rested on the lees to create this beautiful flavor component. On top of the breadiness, white peach, pineapple, tangerine and green apple dance around the palate.

Bridal Veil Blush 2014 – 530 cases produced 3 ½ stars

Porch Sipper – Strawberries jump out on first approach, the softer aromas of stone fruits and cherries emerge. This is an expectedly dry wine and makes a superb first wine to serve guests at any event.

Rosee de Dolcetto 2015 – 172 cases produced 4 stars

Classic Style – Made in the traditional Saignee method (one night on the skins), this rose exhibits the same grace and elegance of a Provence rose. Luscious berries with balanced minerality, hints of white pepper and dry, very elegant indeed. Pair this with lighter lunch dishes like a cobb salad or grilled tuna on field greens.

Tioja 2014 (Texas Rioja) – 525 cases produced 4 stars

Softer Red – Fashioned after the traditional Rioja wine, this red is a blend based on tempranillo. It has rich aromas of tobacco, red cherries and a hint of nicotine. 18 months of aging give it a balanced finish and lovely vanilla essence. Great with lasagna or a Veracruz style fish.

Terre Rouge 2014 – 286 cases produced 4 stars

Fruit Forward – a syrah, grenache, mourvedre and cinsault blend from their estate in San Saba. Aromas of dark cherry, red plum and dried cranberries align on the palate. Beautiful acidity lifts the wine on the long finish. A wonderful wine to serve with beef bourguignon

Reserve Tempranillo 2014 – 185 cases produced 4 ½ stars

Cellar Worthy – Sweet cherry and raspberry aromas entangle with graphite and smoke to produce a glorious complexity. This wine has delectable acidity, and soft silky tannins. This is a foody wine. Pair this wine with any wild game for dinner or simply sip with dried sausages, manchego cheese and olives.

Sweet Alyssum 2015 – 609 cases produced 5 stars

Balanced Sweetness – Bright orange marmalade, pears and honey essence up front. On deeper reflection, white flowers and perfume rise to the nose. The palate is fruit forward but with the cleanest of finishes. Drink this wine anywhere for anything. Stunning.