For those of you keeping score, as of early 2011 there were some 6,785 wineries in the United States according to Wine Business Monthly. In a world where wine lovers are everywhere, and food is frequently paired with fermented fruit of the wine, you’ve got lots of options out there. Consider a trio out in the El Paso area.
The El Paso Convention and Visitors Bureau would like you to think of their vast expanses as populated by something other than tumbleweed and cacti. And indeed it is. If your know where to look, there are some nice vineyards to be visited. Here’s what the CVB suggests:
– La Viña Winery considers itself New Mexico’s oldest winery. This family-operated (that’s the neat thing about lots of wineries) business puts out some surprisingly complex vintages – Cabernet, Chardonnay and Zinfandel. There have even been recent plantings of Italian and Rhone varietals.
– Zin Valle Winery’s location is succulent. The operators say you can find their vineyards in Canutillo, Texas, “nestled between the majestic Franklin Mountains and the High Plains.” Up there, the Rio Grande renders the region ripe for raising wine grapes. Order up a bottle of Rising Star, open it and pour – all the while sitting on the patio overlooking he Franklins. Come at the right time of year and partake of a wine dinner, music and maybe even an outdoor film.
– Star Canyon Winery is a boutique affair, offering up some 26 wines ranging from about $9 to $40 per bottle. We don’t live by wine alone. To get the most out of a glass, it’s got to be properly paired. Star Canyon also serves up some nice cheeses and crackers.
Remember, wherever you imbibe, designate a non-drinking driver to shepherd you back to El Paso.
(Featured image: brittreints)
