Texas Wines for Your Christmas Feast

**Texas Wines Take Center Stage for Holiday Feasts, Experts Say**

THE WOODLANDS, TX – As Texans begin planning their elaborate holiday menus, an increasing number of culinary experts are advocating for a local twist on traditional wine pairings: Texas wines. Far from being a niche curiosity, the state’s burgeoning wine industry is producing bottles that rival national and international selections, offering quality and versatility perfectly suited for any festive occasion.

Carl Helton, owner of The Wine Cellar at The Woodlands, is a staunch proponent. His store, which just marked its 15th anniversary this October, proudly stocks over 200 Texas labels. Helton observes a growing shift in customer perception, noting that “the quality and variety of Texas wines are perfectly suited for holiday dining, easily debunking any old notions that domestic wines aren’t up to snuff for a special occasion.” He estimates that 98% of his customers walk away delighted and often surprised by the caliber of Texas-made wines.

For those quintessential holiday centerpieces like roasted turkey or glazed ham, Helton suggests a crisp Mentis Dry Rosé from the esteemed Texas Hill Country. “It’s an incredibly versatile choice,” Helton explains, “pairing beautifully with lighter main courses and even holding its own during the appetizer course alongside charcuterie or lighter hors d’oeuvres.” Another excellent option for lighter fare, especially poultry or delicate fish dishes, is Haak Vineyards’ Blanc du Bois. This refreshing white wine, cultivated in the warmer, more humid climate of the Gulf Coast region, offers vibrant acidity and aromatic notes without overpowering subtle flavors. The Blanc du Bois grape, a French-American hybrid, is specifically adapted to thrive in Texas’s diverse growing conditions, making it a unique and authentic local choice.

When the menu shifts to heartier fare, such as a prime rib roast or rich beef stew, Helton has equally robust suggestions. He points to Messina Hof’s Tempranillo, another gem from the Texas Hill Country. “This red is robust enough to complement richer meats without being overly heavy,” he advises. Messina Hof, one of Texas’s oldest and most awarded wineries, is renowned for its consistent quality. For those truly seeking a “big” wine to stand up to the richest holiday dishes, a powerful Tannat from Lost Draw Cellars comes highly recommended. Sourced from the high-quality fruit of the Texas High Plains, this full-bodied red offers intense flavors and firm tannins, making it an ideal partner for a perfectly seared prime rib or a slow-cooked beef stew.

And to conclude the festive meal, Helton recommends a sweet offering like Messina Hof Angel, a port-style wine. Its rich, dessert-friendly profile provides a delightful finish, perfect for sipping alongside holiday pies, chocolate desserts, or a cheese course.

This burgeoning appreciation for Texas wines extends far beyond local pride. The industry has experienced explosive growth in recent decades, transforming into a significant economic force. A 2018 Texas A&M study highlighted the impressive scale, reporting a more than $13.1 billion economic impact on the state. With over 500 wineries now operating across Texas, the industry continues to expand, driven by innovation and a commitment to quality.

The secret to Texas’s diverse wine portfolio lies in its unique and varied *terroirs*. From the arid, high-altitude plains near Lubbock in the Texas High Plains AVA, known for its extreme diurnal shifts that benefit robust red grapes like Tannat and Tempranillo, to the limestone-rich soils of the vast Texas Hill Country AVA, and the wetter climate of the Gulf Coast, ideal for hybrid varietals like Blanc du Bois, these distinct geographic regions contribute to an astonishing range of grapes and wine styles. This natural diversity allows Texas winemakers to craft everything from crisp whites and elegant rosés to complex, age-worthy reds.

As the holiday season approaches, Helton encourages everyone to explore the treasures found within the state’s vineyards. “Texas wines aren’t just for casual sipping anymore; they’re ready for your holiday table, offering quality and variety that stand up to any special occasion,” he emphasizes. This year, consider adding a truly local flavor to your celebrations and discover what your local vineyards, or trusted retailers like The Wine Cellar at The Woodlands (www.thewinecellar.net), have to offer. It might just be the trick to making your Christmas feast unforgettable.