As the Texas wine industry continues to flourish, motivated people with a passion for sharing great wine also continues to grow. This is marvelous news for wine consumers as there are wineries popping up right and left all over the state. The excitement of the opening of a new winery is always a great thing, and I am happy to share my recent visit of a new winery with you all.
Nestled in cozy Hye, Texas along Wine Road 290 is a brand new winery that just opened its doors a few weeks ago, in December of 2016, Zero 815 Winery. The winery is founded by Karl and Laura Hogsett whose passion for fine cuisine, and Laura’s love for wine turned them onto the idea of opening the winery to share their passion with others. The name Zero 815 signifies their wedding date of August 8th, 2015. Karl has spent a good part of his life in the culinary arts as a professional chef. He has owned numerous restaurants in Texas, and you can bet food will be a part of the winery experience as they begin to grow. While overseas on work, Karl was touring vineyards in Europe and the creative sparks began to fly.
Fast forward to today and the winery has been erected, and the vineyard will be coming in the next couple years. The estate property is 14 acres total, of which 10 acres are planned for vines. The outlook for 2018 is the planting of estate Picpoul Blanc, followed by other grape varieties as the years go on. Zero 815 Winery is committed to 100% Texas fruit. They also believe in Texas cheeses as they are currently offering meat and cheese trays available for purchase provided by none other than the revered Antonelli’s Cheese Shop in Austin, Texas!
When you visit the winery, you might be greeted by the security staff of Yorkies. Cassie, Callie, and Kenzie want to keep the place safe, so you better watch out for warm muzzles of love. Wine tastings are done standing at the tasting room bar, although there are tables available inside for enjoying a bottle or glass of wine, or a lovely meat and cheese plate. The wines are poured through measured pourers for a tasting fee. I tasted the five wines currently available at the winery, which were all very well made, not surprising as the Hogsetts worked with Bending Branch Winery and McPherson Cellars to make the wines. Below are the wines I tasted during my visit:
- 2015 Muscat (50% Muscat Blanc, 50% Muscat Canelli)
- 2015 Blush
- 2015 Hyeland Blend (37.5% Malbec, 37.5% Mourvèdre, 25% Petite Sirah)
- 2015 Rilassato (50% Malbec, 25% Mourvèdre, 25% Petite Sirah)
- 2014 Mourvèdre (100% Mourvèdre)
Karl and Laura Hogsett
When you have the opportunity, I highly encourage you to swing by for a tasting at Zero 815 Winery. You’ll be greeted and taken care of by a friendly staff, friendly dogs, and quality Texas Wine. They have a wine club called Sip! if you would like to join as well for a yearly membership fee. Please see their website for more information.
Cheers!
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