Written By: Katy Anderson, Contributing Author
It’s not uncommon in Texas for spring to include freezing hailstorms one day then a 90-degree scorcher the next. Thankfully, that gives us a wide range of wines to enjoy! Here are some of the best springtime wines, along with my personal recommendations from Reddy Vineyards and what to pair with each.
Rosé
One of the most obvious choices for warmer weather is Rosé. With characteristics of both white and red wine, rosé is incredibly versatile and can be enjoyed year-round but is an extremely refreshing choice to beat the Texas heat. And speaking of Texas heat, we like to spice up the pairings with traditional BBQ smoked ribs or well-seasoned fish tacos.
Reddy Vineyards 2019 Signature Rosé features a unique blend of Cinsault, Mourvedre, and Merlot- all warm climate varietals that thrive in the Texas High Plains. This dry rosé is light-bodied and refreshing for warmer days. The 2019 Signature Rosé was also a Gold Medal winner at the 37th Annual Lone Star International Wine Competition and the Reserve Texas Rosé Champion at the 2021 Houston Rodeo Uncorked! International Wine Competition. Aka this is not one to miss- and it’s on sale!
The 2020 Lifestyle Rosé, is another classic dry rosé but with a blend of Cinsault, Sangiovese, and Tempranillo. You’ll notice notes of strawberry, Fuji apple, watermelon, and bubblegum. It’s a perfect bottle to open with friends around the pool and enjoy a charcuterie board or spinach and arugula salad. The 2020 Lifestyle Rosé is only available to Reddy Vineyards Wine Club members- a perfect and unique gift idea this season, possibly for a wedding or yourself!
Spring Cheat Notes
Rosé Wine: Sangiovese, Tempranillo, Syrah, and Cabernet
Pairings: Seafood, Grilled Fish, Curry Rice Dishes, or a Charcuterie Board
Red
Contrary to belief, red wines are not limited to colder weather. Skip the heavier bottles such as a Cab and instead go for a medium to lighter bodied red such as a Pinot Noir or Tempranillo. The higher acidity and lower tannins pairs well with either lighter spring-themed dishes, or heavier winter favorites that we’re not quite ready to give up.
A true treat is the Reddy Vineyards 2020 Reserve Pinot Noir. Only 150 cases were produced and after winning both Double Gold at the 2022 San Francisco Wine Competition and the Texas Pinot Noir Champion at the 2022 Houston Rodeo Uncorked! International Wine Competition, it’s sure not to last long. While this wine is a Wine Club exclusive, it’s worth the membership for the incredible purity of flavor and velvety finish. My favorite yet most simple pairing? Fresh strawberries!
Tempranillo is one of my personal favorites so Reddy Vineyards newest release, the Gold Medal winning 2019 TNT Red Blend was a must buy. If you’re big into barbequing, smoking, and grilling, the silky tannins provide the perfect structure for your summer cookout favorites. Enjoy tasting notes of dark cherry, acai, black currant, violet, and spice.
Spring Cheat Notes
Red Wine: Pinot Noir, Merlot, Malbec, and Grenache
Pairings: Fresh fruit, Salmon or other fatty fish, Grilled Chicken, or Asparagus
White
The acidity in white wine enhances its refreshing and crisp qualities, making it a perfect choice as the weather gets warmer. We recommend reaching for a dry and light to medium bodied wine such as a Sauvignon Blanc, Chablis, or Pinot Gris.
Reddy Vineyards 2019 Sauvignon Blanc is a perfect bottle to pick up for spring. Made from 100% Sauvignon Blanc crafted from a single block, only 650 cases were produced in 2019. There were very favorable spring conditions that year that allowed for the vines to truly thrive, most likely why it was rewarded the Reserve Texas Sauvignon Blanc Champion at the 2021 Houston Rodeo Uncorked! International Wine Competition.
As for pairings, Sauvignon Blanc is traditionally served with spring vegetables including zucchini, artichoke, asparagus, or peas. One of my favorite snacks to enjoy outdoors, a homemade hummus, helps the acidity of the wine shine through.
Spring Cheat Notes
White Wine: Sauvignon Blanc, Pinot Gris, Albarino, and Chablis
Pairings: Shellfish, Grilled Chicken, Spring Vegetables, or Pesto Pasta
