Becker Vineyards Named as “Tall in Texas” Award Recipient

As was reported in July, Becker Vineyards of Stonewall, Texas, and Dr. Richard and Bunny Becker have been named the recipient of the annual “Tall in Texas” Award. The award was presented on September 6 at the Texas Wine Tribute, as part of the 28th Annual GrapeFest – A Wine Experience in Grapevine, Texas.

Each year, the recipient of the Tall in Texas Award is selected by a panel of highly-regarded industry professionals and is presented to a Texas winery in recognition of the winery’s leadership role in the dedication to, support of and promotion of the Texas Wine Industry. Along with being one of the most highly awarded wineries in Texas, Becker Vineyards and the Beckers have a long history in supporting and mentoring others within the Texas Wine Industry.

The Texas Wine Tribute was held at the Grapevine Convention & Visitors Bureau’s Grand Hall. Guests at the Texas Wine Tribute were served Becker Vineyards 2012 Viognier, Becker Vineyards 2012 Grenach Reserve, Becker Vineyards Cabernet Franc Reserve and Becker Vineyards 2012 Cabernet Sauvignon Reserve, each perfectly paired with different elements of a four-course meal. Following the presentation of the wines, Grapevine Mayor William D. Tate presented the “Tall in Texas” award.

“Becker Vineyards joined the Texas Wine & Grape Growers Association in the organizations early years,” said Mayor Tate. “Dr. Becker served on the Board and also served as president of the association in l998 and has held consistent membership for over 20 years. He helped the Association through a difficult time when there was a lot of pessimism about Texas wine. The family was committed to producing top quality wine and they passionately believed that by persisting, investing, and learning that Texas could be a significant producer.”

Mayor Tate explained that for the past 20 years, the Becker’s approach to winemaking has been to produce premium wines and to share their winemaking knowledge with others within the industry. Known for taking a classically French approach to winemaking, Becker Vineyards ensures that during the winemaking process, all the necessary steps are taken to produce the highest-level premium product possible. Becker Vineyards is credited with being one of the earliest proponents of premium Texas wines.

“The Becker family has always been supportive of research efforts,” said Mayor Tate. “They have helped research work by Texas Tech University and Texas A & M University to learn more about viticulture, enology, and wine marketing. This research activity has played a significant role in developing the industry.”

Concluding the night, Mayor Tate shared with guests that Dr. Becker and Bunny had been set up on a blind date more than 50 years ago while attending the University of Texas. This date had been arranged because they were both tall. He said they have rode tall in the saddle throughout their professional and wine making careers

Proceeds from the Texas Wine Tribute benefited Metroport Meals On Wheels and the Texas Wine and Grape Growers Association.

Image courtesy of Grapevine Convention & Visitors Bureau