Our Guide to Wine & Texas Wine
Texas Wine Club
Welcome to the Texas Wine Club, where we celebrate Texas' rich wine history & culture. From "Wine Fundamentals" to our "Texas Wine Education" originals, we hope you'll enjoy our work & join us on a journey discovering Texas wine.
Wine Fundamentals
Build Your Wine Tasting Powers.
Whether you're a novice or a seasoned enthusiast, refining your wine-tasting super powers is an art that can be mastered with dedication and practice!
Sulfites in Wine: Everything You Need to Know
If Sulfites occur naturally in wine, how concerned should I be?
Traditional and Sustainable Wine Packaging: The Many Types
While traditional glass bottles are still the best choice for wines that require further aging, there are many alternatives that still store your favorite wine without any adverse effects.
What is the yearly cycle of a Winery?
The care of a vineyard and work in the winery is continuous. Endless hours are spent both in the winery and the vineyards to ensure that all elements come together to create the final result - wine.
The Eight Most Expensive Wines in the World
These bottles are available to the highest bidder and are usually purchased by private collectors and connoisseurs of fine vintage wine. The prestige of owning the bottle makes the high prices prestige, and the pleasure of being the owner of such rare items.
Selecting Wines for Fall
While there are many amazing wines from around the world to discover, do not forget that your local Texan winemaker(s) will have a vast array of wines that make impeccable fall sipping.
Fun Wine Facts
There is so much to learn about wine and the deeper you dig into its fantastic and exciting history the more you will learn. Lost for a discussion topic, look no further, we have put together some interesting facts about wine that you can share with your friends and loved ones the next time that you are together.
Everything A Wine Drinker Should Know About Terroir
The word Terroir encompasses all the unique components of a specific location - climate, soil, terrain - and how those components make the resulting wine distinct from others and thus impossible to be replicated.
Selecting Wines for Winter
Whether you enjoy red or white, locally produced, or those from further abroad, there is the perfect wine out there that will help chase the chill of those short winter days and long winter nights away.
What's the real difference between Natural corks, Synthetic corks, and Screwcaps?
There is an ongoing debate as to whether one form of closure is better than the other. In the following article, we will investigate the origins of these three different closures and examine the benefits and disadvantages of each one.
Crafting Sweet Perfection: The Intricate Process of Making Delightful Sweet Wines
Sweet wine remains one of the least recognized wine styles available in the market. Did you ever wonder why there could be such a wide range of prices for a bottle of dessert wine?
Beyond Single Varietals: Classic Wine Blends that you should know
Winemakers around the world both old and new are becoming more creative as they push the limits and are continually experimenting with new blends often using grape varieties that traditionally are not combined. These blending innovations have resulted in some very exciting wines.
Classic Summer Wines
Why not try a locally-made Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay? As always your first port of call should be your local wine expert who will be thrilled to guide you in the right direction and suggest the perfect Texan wine that will cool down a hot summer's day.
What is a "Reserve" wine?
What does “Reserve” really mean? How can you use this information to your advantage when choosing a wine? Are there any benefits to choosing a “reserve” wine over other wines?
How to choose the right wine?
Choosing the Right Wine: A Guide to Selecting the Perfect Bottle for Any Occasion
What are the real differences between red, rosé, and white wines?
We know they look and taste different, but what are the fundamental differences in these categories of wine?
Selecting Wines for Spring
Spring is here. In addition to local wines, we discuss which classics from around the world pair with our short but sweet season here in Texas.
Debunking Wine Myths
In this short article, we explore common wine myths and dispel common misconceptions.
How to become a wine tasting expert
Who wouldn't want to be a wine tasting expert? Can anyone become one? We answer that question and give you tips on how to up your wine tasting game.
Pacific Island Wines - New Zealand, Japan, and Taiwan
Let’s explore the islands in the Pacific Ocean – where is home to some of the most unique wines in the world. In viticulture, the vineyards can benefit from the moderating effects of the maritime climate, in addition to the not-too-hot summers and not-too-cold winters, there is less difference in rainfall between seasons, and relatively longer growing seasons.
Wine Etiquette: How To Serve Wine To Your Guests
You have guests coming over and want to give the best possible food and wine experience. Here we give you some tips on how to wow your guests with the perfect pairing and wines to get your party started.
Beyond the Label: A Guide to Assessing Wine Quality
Is the quality of a wine subjective? A casual wine fan would likely argue yes, while a wine professional would be happy to dispute that. We will look at what attributes are investigated when determining a wine's quality.
Why Do Some Wines Age Well and Others Do Not?
No exact science is used to determine whether a bottle of wine has the ability to age or not. Wines change as they age, but the majority of them do not improve.
What is a Sommelier and How to Become One?
What does it mean to be a Sommelier?
The Difference Between Old World and New World Wines
Old World and New World Wine, what exactly does that mean? We break it down for you and share some fundamental concepts that will help bring clarity.
The Basics of Food and Wine Pairing
Since the invention of wine, it has been traditional for food and wine to be consumed together. In this short article, we'll help cover/explain the basics of food & wine pairing recommendations.
Exploring The Types of Rosé Wines
Rosé wines are made in most of the wine-producing countries around the world and can be made from any grape variety that is currently being cultivated. It comes in a variety of colors that range from very pale pink (almost white) to a deep ruby red.
Filtered & Unfiltered Wine: What's The Difference?
Both filtered and unfiltered winemaking methods have their benefits and disadvantages. Before making the decision on an unfiltered or filtered wine, it is essential to have an understanding of what each type of wine offers.
How to Read a Wine Label
Wine labels provide valuable information about the wine's origin, grape variety, vintage, and other important details. Understanding these details can help you select a wine that suits your taste preferences and complements your meal or occasion.
Dessert Wines - Sweet Wines, Oxidized Wines & Fortified Wines
There is a seemingly endless choice of dessert wines available to us. They are made as Sweet, Fortified, and Oxidized wines and each has its own specific characteristics and unique style
What is Wine Body & How To Determine It? Light vs. Medium vs. Full Body
One of the most common ways that wine is described is by its body. A wine’s body has no physical aspects, it is the sensation that we feel inside of our mouths when we taste it on our palate.
Wine Etiquette - Tips When Ordering At A Restaurant
Ordering a bottle of wine at a restaurant doesn't have to be stressful. The process is the same at nearly all fine dining establishments. Once you're familiar with the process, you'll be able to order wine at any restaurant confidently.
All The Types of Wine Openers and How To Use Them
Many openers are available on the market, ranging from simple handheld corkscrews to more complex electric or air pressure devices.
How Are Champagnes and Sparkling Wines Made?
Sparkling wine is often associated with celebratory occasions, and rightly so; sparkling wine is unique among all other wines. It is made via a labor-intensive process that results in the creation of a delightful beverage.
What's The Right Serving Temperature for My Wine? Reds, Whites, & Sparklings
The best serving temperature for wine depends on the varietal and style of wine. Let's look at the standards set by the Wine & Spirits Educational Trust in this article.
Organic, Biodynamic, Natural, and Sustainable Wines - What's The Difference?
There is a growing trend toward consuming ethical and natural products. "Natural Wines" are becoming very popular among health-focused and environmentally-conscious consumers as they are produced with minimum disruption in both the vineyard and winery.
Wine Glasses: The Many Types & How to Choose The Best for You
Wine glasses aren't just an aesthetic choice but also an important tool to help you get the most out of your wine.
What Are Tannins? A Simple Guide To Wine Tannins
Tannins are chemical compounds that belong to a larger group of compounds called polyphenols. They exist in numerous plant based foods and originate from the plants bark, stems, seeds, and skin. Wine tannins are produced from grape skins, seeds, stems, oak barrels, and additives.
Wine Decanters: Simple Guide On How & When To Use A Decanter
In this article, you’ll learn about decanters and understand how and when to use one. Let’s solve the mystery, shall we?
Why Does Swirling Wine Make It Taste Better?
The way you swirl wine can greatly enhance your drinking experience, and in this article, we will dive into the art of swirling wine and the benefits it provides.
Wine Spoilage: 3 Ways to Tell If Your Wine Has Gone Bad
There's nothing more disappointing than opening a bottle of wine and discovering that it has gone bad. To help you determine whether your wine has spoiled, we've put together this short guide.
What is A Wine Aerator? A Quick, Simple Guide
Wine aerators enhance the flavors and aromas of wine, making the tasting experience even more enjoyable. In this article, we will explore the benefits of using a wine aerator and how it can elevate your wine-drinking experience.
Pyrazines in Wine: Understanding Their Role in Winemaking & Wine Tasting
In wine, pyrazines play an important role in shaping the wine's flavor profile and can help to balance out the sweetness and fruitiness of the wine. In this article, we'll explain what they are in, hopefully, a simple and easy-to-understand way.
The Art of Wine Legs: Understanding and Appreciating Wine's Visual Characteristics
"Wine legs" are an indication of wine's alcohol content, viscosity, and sugar levels In this article, we will explore the science behind wine legs and how to use them to make informed wine choices.
How Long Does Wine Last – Opened and Unopened?
Have you ever wondered how long a bottle of wine can last? The answer is not as straight forward as you might think. Wine is a living entity with a unique metabolic process, which affects how long it will “live.”
Wine Bottles: An Overview of All The Types & Sizes
With this article, we hope to provide you with a good overview of the various types and sizes of wine bottles without overwhelming you – that’s the wine’s job, not the bottle's.
Hidden Gems of Wine: 5 Reasons Why The Best Are Not In Stores
The truth is, the best wines are often hidden away from us, and are only available to those in the know. In this article, we'll explain why the best wines are not in stores.
The Aroma Wheel & How It Will Change The Way You Drink Wine
The Aroma Wheel is a powerful tool designed to help identify different aromas present in a wine. It consists of sections divided into various categories, aromas that encompass nearly every possible scent detected during a wine-tasting experience.
Texas Wine Education
Traditional, Vegetarian, and Vegan Wine - The Differences Examined
Vegan Wine? What in wine can make it vegan or not vegan? Here we explore that topic and help you answer that question.
What are the best Texas wines to pair with classic Texas foods this summer?
Insights and suggestions as well as the input from some other Texas wine experts and culinary talent to offer you the best advice for sipping and savoring every glass of wine and plate of food you encounter this summer.
The Italian Connection: How Texan Winemakers are Harnessing the Power of Italian Grapes
Texas has eight different AVAs (American Viticultural Areas) however there are two regions where Italian varietals have taken root exceptionally well. Italy and Texas have very similar climates and soil types creating the perfect symbiosis between the Italian vines and the Texan viticultural and winemaking skills to create a little piece of “wine heaven”.
Texas Wines vs. Châteauneuf-du-Pape and Bordeaux
Some very successful blends have been made from grapes that originate in Châteauneuf-du-Pape and Bordeaux. These have some of the old world characteristics but at the same time express their own unique qualities that come from the Texan terroir and touch of its local winemakers.
Why is Texas Tempranillo so successful?
The renaissance of the Texas wine industry dates back to 1966 when Clinton “Doc McPherson” a chemistry professor at Texas Tech University decided to try his hand at growing grapes and winemaking.
Where To Find Natural & Organic Texas Wines
Organic wine refers to the way grapes are grown and produced, while natural wine refers to the minimal intervention in the winemaking process. While there is some overlap between the two, they are not the same thing.
How Texas Winemakers are Gaining Recognition in Europe
Is the Texas wine industry garnering attention from Europeans? Along with luring several Old World winemakers to the region, other wine professionals are also taking notice.
Malbec: The Grapes of Texas Wine
Made famous in Argentina, Malbec was once the grape behind the famed 'Black Wines' from Cahors in Southwest France.
Connecting Texas to the Old World: A Graphical Representation
A graphical illustration of Texas in relation to the Old World.
Texas & Europe: A Visual Comparison of Grape Growing Regions
A visual look at the grape growing regions of Texas and how compare them to those in Europe.
Merlot: The Grapes of Texas Wine
This is the most planted varietal in France for a reason, and one of the most widely cultivated grapes in the world.
Petite Sirah: The Grapes of Texas Wine
Petite Sirah is a variety of red wine grape that descended directly from the well-known Syrah grape of the Rhone Valley.
Syrah: The Grapes of Texas Wine
Syrah, also known as Shiraz, is a full-bodied red wine that is characterized by its meaty, peppery flavor profile.
Grenache: The Grapes of Texas Wine
Grenache is a grape variety that is well-suited to hot, dry climates and is grown in many wine-producing regions around the world, including Texas.
Tempranillo: The Grapes of Texas Wine
In the eyes of many, Tempranillo is the official red grape of Texas.
Viognier: The Grapes of Texas Wine
This aromatic white grape went from being nearly extinct, to one of the more popular alternatives to Chardonnay around the world.
Sangiovese: The Grapes of Texas Wine
From the rolling hills of Tuscany to the Hill Country of Texas, Sangiovese has found a new place to thrive.
Mourvèdre: The Grapes of Texas Wine
Mourvèdre wines are known for their deep, dark color and rich, full-bodied flavor.
Albariño: The Grapes of Texas Wine
Albariño is rapidly becoming known in the state of Texas. While it is not a widely known grape outside of Spain, Texas winemakers and grape growers have embraced this distinct varietal.
5 Wild Texas Grapes Used in Wine Production
From Mustang to Muscadine to Lomanto, whether they're used in varietals or vintages, these are the wild Texan grapes that are shaking up the wine scene.
Texas AVAs: The Key Wine Regions to Watch in Texas
With 8 AVAs in Texas, there’s plenty to love about this booming industry. From terroir to climate, discover more about these 8 distinct wine regions.
How Texas Helped Save the European Wine Industry
When a phylloxera epidemic ravaged French vineyards, TV Munson and Texas grape rootstock saved the industry.
Are Texas Wines Any Good?
It's true: Texas wine hasn't always been great. But overlooking decades of progress will leave you missing out on some world-class wine.
Texas Rose: How They're Made and Why You Should Be Drinking Them
Texas is quickly emerging as a region known for its rosé wines. Every season, Texas rosé garners national attention — and for good reason.
Why The Harsh Weather of 2022 Will Be a Vintage Year for Texas
Texas vines are weathering record high temperatures and conditions of drought. The grapes are smaller than ever, resulting in a much smaller yield. These dire conditions make the 2022 vintage prime for some of the best Texas wine, ever.
TWC Original Shorts
Using A Shoe To Open A Wine Bottle?
I'm sure some of you have heard of this - you put the bottle in the shoe - I gotta see this thing happen apparently.
Our Favorite Tool To Help Identify Varietals by Aroma
If you want to kind of hone in and find out what are the aromas that you would find in...
Growing Grapes in Texas by Jim Kamas
Clay shares a few of his favorite wine books, this one being "Growing Grapes in Texas" by Jim Kamas.
Opening A Bottle Of Wine w/ A Flame?
In this short video, Clay attempts to open a bottle of wine with heat.
Wine books? Wine books!
Clay shares a few of his favorite wine books, this one by Jancis Robinson.
How much wine do I buy for a party?
In this short video, Clay helps recommend planning wine purchases for events/parties.
Why do winemakers age wine in barrels?
In this short video, Clay explains why wine is aged in barrels.
Opening Wine Bottle explained by Clay
In this video, Clay walks thru how they teach waiters and sommeliers to open wine bottles.
Texas Wine Club - Why Join?
Kambrah explains the benefits of joining the Texas Wine Club in this short video.
Wine Glasses with Clay
Clay talks through the basics of wine glasses in this texas wine club original
Kambrah explains how we select our wines
Kambrah explains how we select the wines that go into each Texas Wine Club shipment.
Opening Sparkling Wine Bottle With A Wine Glass
In this short video, Clay attempts to open a bottle of wine with a wine glass.
Aerating Wine explained by Kambrah
In this short video, Kambrah explains wine aeration and why we do it to fine wines.
What's The Official Grape of Texas?
In this short video, Kambrah talks about the grapes of Texas.
Why Did You Join The Texas Wine Club?
In this short video, we asked a club member at Toast of Texas why she joined our club.
Asking Wine Consumers "What Do You Think of Texas Wine?"
What do you think of Texas wine?
Where were the first wine grapes grown in the New World?
So a lot of people don't realize that Texas was the first place in the new world where the European grape was grown.
2023 Storms Impacting Texas Grape Farmers
Kambrah and Dan McLaughlin from Robert Clay Vineyards talk about recent storms impacting Texas grape yields.
Farm Life & The Excitement of Grape Season
Kambrah & Dan McLaughlin of Robert Clay Vineyards discuss farm life & the excitement of grape season..
Why do winemaker "top-up" barrels?
Clay explains wine evaporation & "topping up"
How to discern old world and new world wines during blind tastings?
In this Texas wine club short, Clay talks about old world and new world wines.
Opening A Bottle of Wine With A Chopstick?
In this short video, Clay shows another method to open up a bottle of wine without a wine opener. This time, we use a chopstick!
Is Merlot The Best-Growing Grape in Texas?
In this short video, Dan McLaughlin of Robert Clay Vineyards shares why he thinks Merlot is the best-growing grape in Texas.
How Many Bottles of Wine Does 1 Acre of Grapes Produce?
In this short video, Clay helps explain approximately how many bottles of wine can be produced with 1 acre of grapes.
Opening A Wine Bottle with A Knife & Mallet
In this short video, Clay shows another way to open a bottle of wine when you don't have a wine opener. This time using a knife and mallet to open the bottle.
How Many Bottles of Wine Does One Vine Make?
So one of the wonderful things you get to experience when you drive into wine country is seeing the acres and acres of vines. So begs the question, well how much wine can you get from one acre of vines. Well first of all you have to be able to
How Did Robert Clay Vineyards Come Up With Their Label & Logo?
In this short video, Dan McLaughlin of Robert Clay Vineyards explains how their logo and label were finalized.
Vine Spacing in The Vineyard
Kambrah and Dan McLaughlin of Robert Clay Vineyards discuss vine spacing.
Mobile app for wine education
Clay loves this mobile app for wine education and wanted to share!
Opening A Bottle of Wine Without A Wine Opener
What's your favorite way to open a bottle of wine when you don't have a wine opener? This is the first of three short videos we'll share that might help!
What Are "Tannins"?
In this short video, Clay explains Tannins.
What is "Dry Wine"?
In this short video, Clay talks about the most misused word in wine.
Pairing Steak and Wine
In this short video, Josh explains pairing wine and steak.
The Difference Between Red & White Wines
Clay explains the difference between red and white wines
Pairing Burgers and Texas Wine
Josh explains Texas wine & burger pairings in this Texas Wine Club original short video
Aroma + Taste = Flavor
Clay briefly explains aroma + taste = flavor
Pairing Texas Wine & Pizza
Josh explains Texas Wine & Pizza pairings in this Texas Wine Club original short video
Wine, Gratitude, & Meditation
Kambrah talks wine, gratitude, & meditation in this Texas Wine Club original short video
Pairing Wine & Oysters
Josh explains Texas Wine & Oyster pairings in this Texas Wine Club original short video
What Are Wine Diamonds?
Clay explains Wine Diamonds in this Texas Wine Club original short video
Pairing Wine & Fried Chicken
Josh explains Texas Wine & Fried Chicken pairings in this Texas Wine Club original short video
Wine & Moon Pairings
Kambrah explains the basics of wine & food pairing with a biodynamic calendar in this Texas Wine Club original short video.
Ordering & Sampling Wine at A Restaurant
Clay explains the basics of ordering & sampling wine at a restaurant in this Texas Wine Club original short video.
Wine Legs (or Tears)
Clay explains Wine Legs (or Tears) in this Texas Wine Club original short video
Pairing Texas Wine & BBQ
Josh explains Texas Wine & BBQ pairings in this Texas Wine Club original short video
Wine Swirling Explained
Clay explains the swirling wine in this Texas Wine Club original short video.
Pairing Texas Wine & Mexican Food
Josh explains Mexican food and Texas Wine pairing tips in this Texas Wine Club Original short
Single-Varietal and Blended Wines
Kambrah explains single-varietal and blended wines in this Texas Wine Club Original short
Wine Serving Temperatures
Clay explains the ideal serving temperature of wines in this Texas Wine Club original short video.
Meet Us At Texas Wine Club
Wine Showcase: A Comparative Tasting Experience
Learn about Texas wine history and the similarities and differences to other regions of the world while tasting exceptional wine!
