Is This Texas’ Answer To Napa Valley Cabs?
Where It's From
The Inwood Estates Mericana Cabernet Sauvignon is produced from grapes from Newsom Vineyards in Yoakum County, Texas. Located in the panhandle of Texas about 80 miles southwest of Lubbock, Youkum County is what many would consider a desert, averaging just under 20 inches of rain a year.
With water scarce, growers must adopt different techniques to preserve moisture. Rye cover crop that was planted over the winter is killed off at the beginning of the season to reduce competition for the limited water that is available. While the lack of water can be problematic, it is beneficial in one regard; a lack of water translates directly into a lack of diseases. Downy mildew, grey mold, and black rot are all virtually none existent alleviating the burden of having to contend with these diseases.
Varietal Composition
This wine is made from 100% Cabernet Sauvignon grown in Texas. Sourced from vines with an average age of 35 years, making them some of the oldest Cabernet Sauvignon vines in Texas.
In The Glass
This wine is what I would consider a fruit-bomb, emulating those Cabernet Sauvignons that have proliferated throughout Napa Valley. Loads of bright red fruit with hints of leather and tobacco on the nose, round tannins, and a hint of heat from the higher alcohol levels, the 2015 vintage is at the perfect spot to drink.
Pair this wine with a grilled ribeye or t-bone. The char from the grill will accentuate the wine allowing both wine and food to harmonize rather than struggle to be heard over the other.
Producer's Information
In 1997, Dan Gatlin planted a vineyard of Palomino and Chardonnay vines in the heart of Dallas on Inwood Road. Fast forward to 2004 to find Dan and his wife Mary building a winery in Fredericksburg where they produce wines to this date.
One of the biggest proponents of Tempranillo in Texas, Dan has been a pioneer in the use of lesser known grapes to produce world class wines.
Inwood Estates Vineyards - Texas
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