Texas Wine fo the Month: Llano Estacado Winery 1836, 2008

Of the many battles fought on the vast Texas soil, there are a few that rate as pivotal moments in Texas history. One such skirmish was the famed Battle of San Jacinto. On April 20, 1836, in a part of northern Mexico known as “Tejas,” a group of settlers won a decisive battle leading to the formation of the Independent Republic of Texas, and eventually independence from Mexico. This month’s Texas Wine of the Month was made in celebration of those who fought for the Republic: Llano Estacado Winery 1836 Red Table Wine, 2008.

This month’s selection comes from the suggestion of Suzanne Pike, general manager and wine steward for Bin 555 Restaurant in San Antonio. A long time lover of wine, Pike took note of the 1836 the second she tasted it. “I like this wine because of its balance of flavors,” says Pike who detects hints of blueberries, currant, nutmeg, mocha, and a little smoke.

Llano Estacado Winery has been a long time player in the Texas wine industry offering a wide range of Texas (and non Texas) wines at affordable prices throughout most of our commonly known retail outlets. But they also focus on premium wines as well. In fact, in 5 out of 12 years one of their other top red blends, Viviano (~$30), has walked away with one of the prestigious “Grand Awards” as Texas Best Red Wine in the Lone Star International Wine Competition.

The 1836 is just as worthy of such praise. It is a red blend of Texas grapes primarily sourced from the Mont Sec vineyard in West Texas. (In the Chihuahuan desert.) The primary blend is 50.9 percent Cabernet Sauvignon and 31.1 percent Syrah with smaller percentages of Petite Verdot, Malbec and Sangiovese—giving the wine an extra juicy kick of fruit.

The diverse variety of grapes each bring a different element to the wine. Perhaps its the spirit of the battle for the Republic that has been bottled in this wine, which exudes bold structure from the Cabernet Sauvignon, a smoky meatiness from the Syrah, ripe fruit from the other varietals and crisp acidity, perhaps from the hot days and cool nights and elevation of the Chihuahuan desert.

“To me it is the perfect summer BBQ wine,” says Pike who suggests that the 1836 would be perfect with grilled ribeye or smoked brisket or ribs. “This is an example of how Texas wines have come a long way. We’re starting to see beautiful fruit, and well-balanced wines that could stand side-by-side next to the wines of California. Everyone who enjoys a good glass of wine should really try what Texas has to offer.”

Though it’s certainly a heartier wine than the lighter summer whites and rosés that are often suggested for this time of year, don’t shy away from a wine like this. Just be sure to chill it for about 15-20 minutes in the refrigerator before serving—trust me, you won’t regret it.

Wine: Llano Estacado Winery, 1836 Red Table Wine, 2009

Retail Price: ~$30

Availability: At some Spec’s locations throughout the state as well as at some restaurants including Bob’s Steakhouse (Dallas), Four Seasons Resort & Club (Las Colinas), Charivari Restaurant & Bar (Houston), Kata (Houston), Bin 555 (San Antonio), Hudson’s on the Bend (Austin), Marritt at Horseshoe Bay (Marble Falls)

Tagged: Bin 555, Jessica Dupuy, llano estacado winery, Lone Star International Wine Competition, Texas Wine of the Month