Pedernales Cellars Texas Tempranillo 2012: Bright cherry, raspberry, smoky minerals on enchanting nose; raspberry, cherry, blackberry, plum, chip of chocolate, bit of balsamic, spice on the palate; dash of vanilla, appropriate oak; medium-plus body, restrained acidity and tannin, interesting tang on lingering finish. Pedernales Cellars is a premier Texas maker with admirable commitment to sustainable viticulture and ecological reverence. The sixth generation Texans who own and run the operation have particular focus on tempranillo and viognier—grapes that appear destined to be signature Texas varieties. This is seriously good serious red wine at a fair price (which doesn’t always happen with Texas bottlings). Enjoy. $17
