has successfully harvested over an acre-and-a-half of these favored grapes on their own land, Stacy tells me it’s not nearly enough to keep up with their growing production needs. As is the case for most wineries, Vine 2 Wine works directly with other Texas vineyards to supplement their grapes. “This year, we’re excited to partner with an award-winning winemaker from Nacogdoches who has helped us improve our process and quality,” she adds. “We’ve got lots of new stuff coming that is very good.” It’s clear the Rollins are winemakers committed to quality. The nearly year-long production process begins using whole grapes in their purest form. Stacy explains that by growing and buying grapes direct, then crushing the grapes themselves (as opposed to starting with processed grapes in their juice state), she and Clay can better maintain the integrity of their wines. As the label reads, Vine 2 Wine is not just a catchy name; it’s the way this couple approaches their craft. “People are more conscious than ever about where things they buy and consume come from,” she says. “It’s important to us to make a product we believe in from start to finish. After all, our face is the wine.” The Vine 2 Wine estate offers a wide variety of wines—from whites to Rosé to their highly requested Red Velvet Infusion—each is unique in their process and flavor profile. Their Viognier offers a delicate balance of floral notes such as honeysuckle or jasmine, as well as crisp pears and peaches with a hint of baking spice. The 2015 Tempranillo is a full-bodied red wine that is fruit forward with flavors of black cherry, pomegranate, and blackberry, and aromas of cocoa,
As the label reads, Vine 2 Wine is not just a catchy name; it’s the way this couple approaches their craft.
coffee, and black pepper. Or maybe you’d like to try their Montepulciano Rosé packed with delightful hints of red fruit flavors and subtle notes of violet and dried herbs. If you simply can’t decide though, order a flight and enjoy a sample of each as Stacy educates you on the tasting notes of all of their house wines. When she isn’t busy crushing grapes, Stacy actively works to keep her customers returning season after season. She hosts several events at the tasting room throughout the year, like her Annual Jingle Mingle (coming up November 25) where guests are invited to sip a glass (or two!) of wine while shopping 25 locally curated vendors. “It’s one of our biggest events,” Stacy tells me. “We look forward to it every year!” Vine 2 Wine released their first professional bottles of wine in 2013 and opened their tasting room the following year. Since then, the winery has grown steadily. “We’ve taken our time to learn the art of good winemaking,” Stacy tells me. And as is the case with any fine wine, all good things come in time. “We’re taking baby steps, but we’re really proud of what we’ve accomplished so far.” In addition to enjoying private wine tastings and seasonal events, guests can sign up to become part of the Vine 2 Wine Club. The winery is located south of Highway 73 in Winnie, with the tasting room open Thursdays through Sundays. For more information, visit their website at rollinsvine2wine.com tL
November/December 2017
theLOCAL
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