Hi all! Although we are officially in the "dog days of summer", we are
so blessed here in Austin, Texas! We have Barton Springs Pool, Krause
Springs (where you can bring wine with your picnic), plus a lot of free
outdoor concerts. We also are only about an hour away from several wineries, how cool is that?
Can't afford to go to Napa or Sonoma this summer?

I recommend venturing to the beautiful Hill Country and checking out some of
our highly acclaimed wineries. I happened upon an excellent website
(www.texaswinetrail.com/wineries.html), which lists all of the Hill Country
vineyards alphabetically, with links to their websites. This is an easy way
to find out specifics of tasting hours, prices of samples, upcoming events
and most important; directions. One good reason to visit a vineyard is that
you can sample (and/or purchase) a wine that is sold exclusively at the
vineyard. It may be a bit warm, but just envision yourself on the shady
veranda overlooking Becker Vineyards, sipping a glass of chilled
Viognier...a perfect summer "vacation”! Now for some great wines...Enjoy!

*Becker Vineyards Viognier (2007)-$15.99 - Enticing floral aromas. Medium-dry
with a nice, full mouth-feel of peaches, apricot with a hint of lemon.
Crisp, refreshing, this wine was a favorite of Twin Liquors associates when
we toured the vineyard.

*Alexander Valley New Gewurz (2007)-$9.99 - Gewurztraminer is a grape generally associated
with German wines. This Gewurz, however was grown and crafted at the Wetzel
family's Alexander Valley Vineyards. On the nose,aromas of nutmeg, cinnamon,
fresh baked apple pie. Flavors of peach, nectarine, pear, cinnamon and
ginger. A classic. Pair with spicy Asian food!!!

*Alamosa El Guapo (2005) – 15.99 - Made from Tempranillo with aromas and flavors of
blueberries, juniper, chocolate and leather with rich fruit and supple tannins.
Serve it with a grilled steak and portabellas, a rack of lamb, beef tenderloin or game.

*Becker Vineyards Iconoclast Cabernet Sauvignon (2007)-$10.49 - Full bodied,
dry this is hands down the best Cabernet (at this price point) the Hill
Country has to offer! Nice nose of black cherry, vanilla and cocoa. A nice
full mouth-feel of black cherry, vanilla with hints of blueberry and black
pepper. The tannins are mellow, leaving a long, velvety finish.

*Castle Rock Cabernet Sauvignon Paso Robles (2006)-$8.99 - On the first page
of Castle Rock's website they state that "their mission is to produce and
sell the highest quality premium wines at an affordable price." I say
mission accomplished!! This is a well crafted, classic Cabernet Sauvignon at
a ridiculously low price. Full bodied, dry with firm tannins. On the nose,
black cherry, coffee and licorice. Flavors of dark cherries, plum, mint and
a hint of vanilla. Each sip leaves you with a nice, long finish.

*Note:* Cabernet Sauvignon may sound a bit heavy for this time of year, but
is a perfect accompaniment to all grilled meats.