We're often called the 'Texas Chill Country', and for good reason.
Here, time seems to linger. Cell signals are slower, and life, in general, moves at a relaxed pace for much of the year. A distinct change is felt, however, as late August transitions into September. Vineyards across the region spring to life with the onset of harvest hustle. This is an annual reality, but this year was a little more dynamic than usual.
At the launch of the 2023 Texas Hill Country harvest season, Signor Vineyards opened our new production facility. The timeline to build it was ambitious and we began producing wine in the building as construction continued all around us. The fruit was ready to go, so we kicked it into gear. We closed and refrigerated the East Hall and started processing fruit under strings of work lights and with plastic covering the doorways. We knew we were marching into wild weather with that move, but we felt we were dressed for it. Thankfully, It worked.
While our tradition of hand-harvesting in the early morning hours remains unchanged, it is now set against the dramatic backdrop of our towering 12,000-square-foot facility. Situated at the edge of Charles Vineyard and shimmering with state-of-the-art equipment, the facility will not only ferment and bottle our estate varietals but will also take on the job if processing fruit from the West Texas mountains and the Texas high plains.
This year, we are growing in all these regions and sourcing a few unique lots from “off the beaten path”.
With 14 grape varietals sourced from 10 Texas vineyards and four distinct AVAs, we're on a journey that is both traditional and innovative.
Expect old classics like Tempranillo, Tannat, and Sangiovese, for the reds. For the whites, we have Sauvignon Blanc, Roussanne, and Viognier. We will also introduce some new varietals to the lineup including Cabernet Franc, Chenin Blanc, and Zinfandel in small unique lots.
With just half of our grapes harvested and 208 barrels already aging, we still have more to pick and more to make.
As the windmill turns from summer heat to fall breezes we have much in store for
the coming season. There will be a variety of exciting new experiences for you all to enjoy upon completion of our new facility. Stay tuned for details.
