Review of CapRock Winery Tempranillo 2012

CapRock Winery has been providing us with Texas wines since 1988. Although it has changed ownership more times than a dollar bill, it has remained a staple in the High Plains as it is still very much in business and was recently purchased by new owners. The building itself sort of resembles the architecture of the Alamo from the outside, and the finish out and sheer size of the inside is downright impressive, nearly resembling the lobby of a Four Seasons hotel. The plans are now to use the building as a venue for weddings and special events, while maintaining its winemaking backbone. During my recent trip to the Texas High Plains, I visited CapRock Winery and decided to pick up a bottle of Tempranillo for review. Here is the rundown folks.

I began by slicing the capsule and I hoisted the cork out with a swift motion, in anticipation of tasting some lovely Tempranillo. Pouring said wine into the glass, the color is a glowing garnet with a slight rim variation. My nose deeply imbedded in the glass, notes of red fruits, leather, baking spices and cedar strips strike the olfactory senses. Once on the palate, black cherries, leather, baking spices, and stewed tomatoes drape the taste buds. Although the nose is highly aromatic and complex, I must say the palate is not quite as interesting. This wine is clean and tasty, yet it is somewhat one dimensional. There is a lack of texture on the palate in my opinion.

Specifications:

• CapRock Winery Tempranillo, 2012 vintage
• Appellation: Texas High Plains AVA
• Grape Varieties: Tempranillo
• Clarity/Brightness: Clear/bright with no detectable flaws and no evidence of gas or sediment
• Tannins: Medium
• Acidity: Medium
• Alcohol: Medium
• Finish: Medium
• Alcohol by volume: 13.0%
• Price: $21.50

All in all, I consider this a very nice everyday Tempranillo. Due to its soft structure, I recommend this wine all on its own or paired with lean meats or red sauce pasta.

Sip, savor, and enjoy my fellow aficionados.