People associate Texas more with barrels of oil than bottles of wine, but the truth is, wine is a robust business in the Lone Star State. There are more than 130 wineries in Texas, mostly in the hill country west of Austin and the high plains near Lubbock. While Texas wines can be difficult to find outside the state, their reputation is growing nationally. Vintners are still determining which grape varieties grow best here, but there are several strong contenders. Viognier is one; Becker Vineyards, in the hill country, produces an aromatic bottling that’s delicious with rich Thanksgiving soups. Cabernet Sauvignon and Sangiovese can also do well in Texas; in the high plains, Llano Estacado blends the two grapes for its robust Viviano, a good partner to turkey. And sweet Muscats, like Flat Creek Estate’s citrusy Travis Peak Select Muscato D’Arancia, are ideal with any holiday dessert. —Ray Isle
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