by Katie Minchew
After dodging the $17 parking lot, a wine fan friend of mine and I giddily ventured into the Pavilion Room at The Fairmont Dallas upon an invite to experience a sample of what the Duchman Family Winery has to offer. Each of the four wines were paired with an hors d’oeuvre created by Andre Natera, Executive Chef at the hotel.
With four stations to get through, we eagerly magnetized toward booth number one, which held a 2010 Pinot Grigio. It was full of citrus, lime, and green apple flavor and was both light and refreshing, paired with grilled calamari, lemon, garlic, and parsley with endive. Next we sampled a 2010 Trebbiano, “a glassful of tropical vacation,” as the Duchman family puts it. Following the Trebbiano, we sampled the 2010 Vermentino, my personal favorite.
I had never tried a Vermentino before and was swept off my feet at the first sip. The final station held the 2010 Viognier, another favorite. This full body wine satisfies every taste bud with its warm flavors and springtime fruits. It leaves you wanting for nothing.
During our evening of sips and smiles, I had the opportunity to speak with the winemaker himself, Mr. Dave Reilly, a charming, artistic gentleman who’s love of wine became a hobby, which turned into a passion, and grew into an art form, and full time job. Dave has a mind for knowing what grapes grow well in the Texas soil, resulting in some great wines. It’s about time!
My friend and I enjoyed the tasting so much that we have since made plans to take a Girl’s Weekend Trip to the Duchman Family Winery in Driftwood, TX, where they have free tours, fantastic views, and, of course, a delicious product for you to sample and take home.
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