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Wine of the week: Los Pinos Ranch Vineyards - Sweet Rodeo Red NV $13.00

November 5, 4:08 PMTexas Wine ExaminerCliff Simms
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Los Pinos Ranch Vineyards - Sweet Rodeo Red
Los Pinos Ranch Vineyards - Sweet Rodeo Red
(c) Texas Wine Examiner

As you approach the entrance to Los Pinos Ranch Vineyards, you would be forgiven for thinking you were in the rolling countryside of Tuscany or rural France. Driving the short distance from the entrance through the vines planted in front of the winery itself, you are greeted by a relaxed and homely atmosphere. Indeed, Los Pinos is a true family run winery and labor of love.

From the Blanc du Bois, which is a firm favorite in our house, to their full bodied and bold Merlot, there is something to suit everyone’s palate here.

Their non vintage Sweet Rodeo Red is a delightful and fascinating wine made from a blend of Cabernet Sauvignon and the lesser known Ruby Cabernet. The Ruby gives the wine a sweeter fuller finish than you’d expect from a straight up Cabernet and adds to the wines dusky ruby appearance.

Aromas of cherries, sweet plums, and the slightest touch of blackcurrant leap from the glass. Medium bodied with soft lingering tannins, this is both beautifully smooth and incredibly easy to drink.

This wine pairs exceptionally well with both Mexican food and spicier cuisine in general. The sweetness playing off the spices in the food to great effect.

For those of you who are interested, Ruby Cabernet is actually a cross between Cabernet Sauvignon and the Spanish Carignan varietals and is used primarily as a blending grape. Very few single varietal examples of Ruby Cabernet exist, and those that do are usually disappointing and bland.

Overall this is an immensely satisfying wine and at $13.00 per bottle represents fantastic value for money. 

As for the winery itself, monthly themed dinner nights and other regular events including live jazz most Saturday nights make Los Pinos a great place to spend an evening, hang out with friends or enjoy a romantic dinner for two. 

So sit a while on the deck, watch the sun slowly fade over the vines and enjoy one of the best wineries Texas has to offer. 

Los Pinos Ranch Vineyards is located just off Country Road 1334 in Pittsburg TX 75686 and is open Fri-Sun. 

Had any memorable wine experiences at a Texan winery? Leave me a comment below or join my mailing list by clicking the Subscribe button at the top of the page.

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