This October, we’ll taste Halloween-adjacent wines that are just pure fun deliciousness. Plus, consider – and enjoy – the suggested candy pairings.
Vermentino, called Rolle in southern France, is a variety known for its refreshing acidity and clean, floral nose. The name ‘Elicio’ is derived from the Latin, meaning “to evoke, elicit, or bring forth,” but in this case, let’s go with its alternate definition, which is “to summon, as in a spirit.” As evidenced from the label, the earth (and also a grape?!) is held in a celestial orbit which emanates connectedness across all things. If that is a little too ‘woo woo’ for you, just know this white is delightful. From sustainable farming practices, the Elicio has matured in stainless steel to preserve Vermentino’s fruit-bomb flavors but has also undergone 7 months of lees aging to add body and complexity. At first sniff, its fresh herbal (garrigue) and lemon-lime aromas emerge, followed by green apple, grapefruit, and pineapple on the palate, rounded out by salinity on the finish. Such a unique wine deserves an uncommon candy, such as the Zero bar; its white fudge, nutty nougat, and gooey caramel will be a heavenly match for the Elicio’s punchy flavors.
Francesco Cirelli’s respect for the environment is infused in his wines. He notes, “I strive to bring out as much as I can of the peculiarity of the region, the season’s harvest and even my own sentiments in the wine I produce. It’s my belief that the wine has to reflect its place of origin and its creator.” Agricola Cirelli is certified organic, specializing in more than just grapes – their farm maintains bees and sheep while also producing olive oil, vegetables, fruit, and meats of supreme quality. Cirelli insists that his wines will be fresh, light, low alcohol, and highly drinkable, and this wine made from 95% Trebbiano and 5% Muscat is a wonderful example. With 20 days of Trebbiano skin contact, this orange wine, with a spider on the label to show his deference to natural winemaking, is refreshing and light-hearted. A floral nose evolves into white peach, apricot, and lemon on the palate, culminating in a hint of sea salt and basil. Paired with fruity, chewy Starburst, the Cirelli Orange will be a treat.
Winemaker Ryan Zotovich has the mission to “consistently deliver impossibly good 100% Pinot Noir at an unrivaled price.” Alas, like Captain Ahab obsessively chasing a white whale across the Atlantic and Indian Oceans (that is a Moby Dick reference), Zotovich has perfected the paragon of Pinot Noir with a positive price (I was once an English teacher – now you’ve had an allusion and alliteration). Folly of the Beast shows what the Central Coast can do best: it’s fog-filled mornings and breezy evenings have a favorable effect on Pinot Noir’s persnickety nature. What you taste is pure bliss: cherry, plum, and black raspberry are amplified by a year of time spent in French oak, 40% of which was new, resulting in additional notes of forest floor and leather. This wine is no folly. Enjoy a glass with some Twizzlers, with its candied cherry and strawberry goodness, and don’t forget to also try it with black Twizzlers, with their spicy anise flavors.
The founders of Spellbound chose the name and label imagery to “suggest the ever-present magical, mystical
force of the moon.” To further elaborate, Spellbound takes “inspiration from the celestial spirit of the lunar calendar, which reminds us that all life's phases are worth remembering.” Umm, yeah. Grapes are sourced throughout the state of California where the warm days and cool nights result in balanced and expressive wines, just like this thirst-quenching 100% Cabernet Sauvignon. Not too heavy at 13% ABV, this Cab can be enjoyed any season or time of day. Quintessential varietal notes of blackberry, ripe plum, and cassis meld with a hint of cedar, spice and tobacco, which emerge due to a mix of aging in both American and French oak. A spellbinding match will be a Twix bar with its chewy, rich caramel, its crunchy but buttery cookie, and its coating of sweet, creamy milk chocolate.
Vinter Dan Morgan Lee had initially prepared to study veterinary medicine at the University of California, Davis. It wasn’t until pretty late in his college journey that he discovered that enology fulfilled his scientific and agricultural interests. So he changed course (literally) and graduated with his enology degree and was immediately hired at several wineries in Monterey County to garner experience. In 1982, he and his wife started their own label, Morgan, and in 1996, they bought what has become one of the most sought-after vineyards, Double L, in Santa Lucia Highlands. Lovers of Rhône varieties, they decided to craft this red blend, a play on the famous French appellation ‘Crozes’ Hermitage. With 58% Grenache, 35% Syrah, 4% Mourvèdre, plus 3% Tempranillo, this red spent 10 months in 100% French oak, a portion of which was new. The luxurious mouthfeel is enriched by notes of boysenberry, blackberry, chocolate covered cherry, tobacco, vanilla, and spice. Such a wine begs for a decadent but tangy chocolate-covered fruit, like Raisinets. But you can also certainly go with chocolate covered cherries if you are feeling even more devious.
Founders Bill Blackmon and Chris Brundrett discovered a skeleton key in the large farmhouse that eventually became their first tasting room at William Chris. Passionate advocates for Texas wine, they used the symbol of the skeleton key on this line of wines to “unlock the potential of Texas wines.” While Bill has moved on from the winery, promoting his own artisan Blackmon Wines, William Chris is thriving and now has multiple brands and partnerships, including Uplift, Grower Project, and Yes We Can, a canned rosé. This award-winning Proprietor’s Red is a blend of 38% Sangiovese, 33% Mourvèdre, 17% Tempranillo, and 12% Cabernet Sauvignon. Its multidimensional aromas and flavors include spiced apple, dried red cherry, pomegranate, vanilla, and toasty oak. The ‘Skeleton Key’ will really satisfy alongside some Snickers, with a sweet and salty contrast of crunchy peanuts, soft nougat, and chewy caramel textures.
We all know that wine can be pretentious and snobby but also beautiful and almost spiritual. Coming from an artisanal family like the Silvestrins, whose primary winery is in Napa’s St. Helena, The Cult Cabernet is a special wine for sure – just look at the label! In their own words: “At The Cult Wine Co., we believe enjoying wine should be fun. For us, wine is for loud potluck style dinners, endless catch-up conversations, poured for those long rambling toasts, with glasses that don’t need stems, all to make every occasion a celebration.” I want to be in this “cult,” and this Cabernet Sauvignon with its racy acidity, firm tannins, and medium-plus body deserves to be savored. With a lengthy 15 months in the barrel, 25% of which was new French oak, the palate proffers red and black fruits, like raspberry, black cherry, and blackcurrant, supported by nutmeg and coffee notes. A delectable accompaniment to The Cult Cab would be Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups, which offer both sweet and salty traits plus melt-in-the-mouth creaminess.
Moroccan-born Malek Amrani started The Vines Wines as a response to his own vice – Napa wines and their often heart-stopping price tags. His mission was to craft wines he would enjoy without the $450 bill. Concentrating on what individual AVAs in Napa Valley do best, like a magician, he crafts blends and single varietal wines that won’t break the bank. Amrani acknowledges that Cab is king in Napa but wants to celebrate other varieties that thrive there, as seen in ‘The Millennial.’ A blend of 63% Petite Sirah sourced from Mount Veeder, 21% Malbec from Coombsville, 8% Primitivo from Oak Knoll, 7% Tempranillo of Carneros, and 1% Charbono from Suisun Valley, just east of Napa, this wine makes a statement. At first taste, ripe strawberry and blueberry jam are complemented by baking spices like cinnamon and cardamom, with a finish of vanilla, dark cocoa, and sweet tobacco. A significant amount of time in oak, between 12 and 32 months depending on the grape, contributes complexity. Only 720 total cases of this wine were made, making this your new vice. Dark chocolate with its fruity-sweet-bitter notes will make the wine shine even more.
Oct 2, 2025 at 7:23 AM
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While Sauvignon Blanc is closely associated with Bordeaux, many would argue that its spiritual home is actually the Loire Valley, which is about four hours north. Chenin Blanc is also widely grown in the Loire, but as you travel east, Sauvignon Blanc becomes the most important white variety. The cool climate here produces a tart flavor bomb, retaining Sauv Blanc’s natural acidity. And it’s been around a long time! According to Wine Folly, “The roots of Sauvignon Blanc are thought to lie in Loire Valley, where the grape was first mentioned in 1534 by writer François Rabelais (it was called “Fiers”). Apparently, it was a good cure for constipation – really!” So it’s tasty and good for you. The Petite Sauvage, also known as a “Baby Sancerre” due to its proximity to the famous winegrowing region, expresses an amalgamation of notes: hay, green herbs, lemon peel, lime, lemongrass, and minerality pervade the glass. Nutty and creamy Gruyère would be an excellent partner for the Petite Sauvage.
Winemaker Jane Dunkley’s LinkedIn profile simply says, “I make wine.” The Master of Wine candidate is being humble as her résumé reads like she is truly an expert, with time as a consultant oenologist in Umbria as well as winemaker at multiple places including Willow Bridge in Australia, Bonny Doon Vineyards, E&J Gallo, and, since 2022, Cakebread Cellars. Bezel is a second line for Cakebread, focusing on fruit-forward options from the Central Coast. A longer growing season coupled with ocean breezes, particularly in Paso Robles, contribute to wines that showcase complex aromas and bright fruit. And while Sauvignon Blanc only accounts for about 5% of total plantings in California, it has seen an uptick in popularity, especially among luxury wine producers. The Bezel is a refreshingly crisp take on the grape, exuding citrus blossom, lime zest, gooseberry, pink grapefruit, and, like the Petite Sauvage, fresh cut herbs. The most traditional pairing for Sauv Blanc is goat cheese or Chèvre with its soft texture and tangy bite.
On the border with Austria lies the Alto Adige DOC, or as its known to its German-speakers, Sudtirol. In far north Italy, this wine region is entrenched in the Southern Limestone Alps; Veneto lies to the east, Lombardy is to the west, and the Tirol region of Austria is directly north. Red grapes must be able to thrive in the cool alpine climate, and the most widely planted red grape here is Schiava, which we have previously had in our club. Pinot Nero is tied for second most planted with the indigenous grape Lagrein. Cooperatives are common in this area, with the goal of maintaining quality and efficiency, and Colterenzio started off with 26 producers in 1960. Also known as Schreckbichl to their German-speaking counterparts, Colterenzio grapes are grown at considerable altitudes and a variety of soils to lock in fresh aromas and lively acidity. Now there are 300 wine growers in the co-op, all focusing on sustainable farming and clean energy. The Colterenzio Pinot Nero is medium-bodied with soft tannins. It’s an elegant wine, culminating in redcurrant, cranberry, black cherry, dried bay leaf, and forest floor. Savor it with some Parmigiano-Reggiano in all its sharp-nutty-umami glory.
As a brand, Poppy is all about the love that Ethan and Josephine Silva, their children, and their grandchildren have for the Salinas Valley, a region about 90 miles long, running west of the San Joaquin Valley and south of San Francisco Bay. The Silvas have tended to estate vineyards in the valley for over 45 years. Vines sourced for the Poppy Pinot Noir originate from the Arroyo Seco appellation, which begins in a steep and narrow gorge at the foot of the Santa Lucia Mountains. As you head east, the topography opens up, and the fertile soils of the Salinas Valley benefit from afternoon Pacific breezes, which help to cool the Pinot grapes, intensifying flavors. They seek to extract as much color and flavor as possible while maintaining a supple and delicate mouthfeel. When tasted, notes of raspberry, strawberry, red plum, mocha, and spice emerge, balancing Pinot Noir’s naturally high acidity. This juicy Pinot will pop alongside some Camembert, a rich, buttery cheese that can also be slightly earthy and mushroomy.
Pavette is a small, family-owned winery that specializes in fresh, balanced wines. Sourced from multiple vineyards throughout California’s North Coast and Central Valley, the Pavette brand is fun and approachable. The name Pavette translates to ‘little peacock,’ a word that has cognates in various languages, including Croatian (páv), Galician (pavón), Italian (pavone), and Spanish (pavon real). The graphic label lets you know that the winery doesn’t take itself too seriously, and their tagline reinforces that theme: “Always be struttin’.” This Cabernet Sauvignon has undergone whole berry fermentation, which means intact grapes are fermented in tanks, resulting in more fruity and fresh flavors. However, the extended aging regimen of oak barrels, foudre (very large wood vats), and tanks means that this wine evokes spice and pepper. Fruity characteristics of blackberry, cassis, plum, and black cherry are interwoven with a touch of earth. The Pavette Cab deserves a formidable cheese like Bay Blue, which is a rustic but mellow blue cheese with a sweet, salted caramel finish.
Over thirty years ago, Fred and Cherry Krutz discovered the world of wine when they stopped into a boutique wine and cheese shop in Carmel. They soon became avid wine hobbyists and in a twist of fate, their son Patrick began working at that same shop twenty years later. While employed there, Patrick learned the art of winemaking by apprenticing with some of Monterey County’s best wineries. Wanting to craft his own wines for family and friends, Patrick produced 60 cases of wine in his first vintage in 2003. Demand was strong for Patrick’s wine, propelling him to open Krutz Family Cellars with his brothers. They continued their success with the Magnolia line, which features the lovely flower on the label, a symbol of their Mississippi roots. The Magnolia Cabernet is a celebration of the cool Sonoma Coast, with mouth-filling layers of blackberry jam, black cherry, blackcurrant, cedar, spice, and graphite. This gorgeous wine will benefit from a substantial cheese like a complex aged Cheddar.
McPrice ‘Mac’ Myers has a true sense of humor in addition to winemaking acumen. He’s been crafting wines since 2002 and calls himself a “food and wine geek,” preferring unique sites in Paso Robles and Santa Barbara County. The ‘Right Hand Man’ Syrah is so-called because, in Mac’s words, it is “that old reliable pickup in your grandparents’ garage that fires up lickety-split when you turn the key and rev the engine. I know that any time I’m in need, it’s my Right Hand Man that will know the road home and deliver me safely there.” This wine is 92% Syrah and 6% Petite Sirah, completed by a touch of Viognier to round out its aromatics. With fresh herbs on the nose, the plentiful fruit accompanying each sip is mouth-filling and soul-giving. Cherry, plum, and blackberry give way to peach-blueberry cobbler (his note, not mine!) and soy sauce. Mac also says there’s “rib roast pan drippings,” but I will leave that to you to decide. This wine requires a bold, tangy cheese to match its intensity, so a bowl of cheese curds will certainly do the trick.
Grapes were first planted on the banks of Jacob’s Creek in 1847. The original winery was called Gramp & Sons Winery, after Johann Gramp, a cooper, emigrated from Bavaria to Australia. He named the property ‘Orlando,’ and produced his first vintage in 1850. While the owners and names have evolved over time, Gramp’s legacy of winemaking has made Jacob’s Creek a staple throughout the Barossa Valley and beyond. The Shiraz for this wine is sourced from the best regions throughout Australia, from Barossa to Coonawara to Adelaide Hills. But this wine is unique, of course, due to its ‘double barrel’ method. After traditional maturation in oak for up to 15 months, the Shiraz is finished in aged Scotch Whiskey barrels for two months. This process imparts an additional layer of richness and depth while also rounding out Shiraz’s prominent tannins. On the palate are flavors of blackberry, plum, vanilla bean, mocha, toasted oak, smoke, and cedar. The most exciting cheese pairing would be one that could hold up to the bold taste of the Jacob’s Creek Double Barrel Shiraz, like a smoked Gouda.
Sep 5, 2025 at 5:02 AM
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I am in the midst of volunteering at my first TexSom, which is the largest wine industry-focused conference in the United States. TexSom is celebrating 20 years in 2025, and Master Sommelier James Tidwell was the impetus behind the wine education and tasting gathering. Around 1000 people are expected to attend, and I have met people who have come from all over the United States to assist, many of them repeat TexSommers. The three days leading up to the conference are called Sommer Camp, and the volunteers are treated to sponsored lunches and dinners with fun and, in some cases, rare wines in exchange for hours spent polishing glasses and getting the Irving Convention Center ready for the event.
My experience has been interesting, exhausting, and fun, if not a bit lonely. Almost everyone who volunteers is credentialed in some way (three wine certs – ha! That’s small potatoes here!). But it has been fun to be a part of a group of like-minded individuals who have a shared passion for wine. And I now feel reassured that there are many more wine nerds out there, just like me!
Aug 24, 2025 at 9:27 AM
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Good Monday Afternoon!
It was a week of fun, activities, wine, specials, live music, and friendship. It all started on August 2nd with Karen's Birthday at the bar, and it continued through yesterday as we wrapped up several nights of specials, music, and gatherings. We topped it all off last night with a Tapas dinner with Spanish wines. It's time to take a breath and focus on the coming days.
Thank you to all who came out and shared a bit of their time with us as we celebrated 9 years of serving you and the Denton community.
For those who were not able to join us, we still have several Steve's Wine Bar glasses and the glass toppers available at the $9 price. And we have our new T-shirts and long-sleeve shirts we brought in for the party. So, stop in and pick up a few gift items, or something for yourself.
You can visit our events page to learn more about these experiences and more. Make sure to reserve your seats for the nights you want to attend.
Check our website and social media to stay in touch with all our events.
One of the specials we had on Saturday was a tasting of a highly regarded wine. The Beaulieu Vineyards ‘Georges de Latour’ Private Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon was a hit with those who tasted it, and we have about 2/3 of a bottle available for those who want to swing by and give it a try before it's gone.
You can read more about this wine on our Blog.
Don't forget to vote for Steve's for the Best of Denton County. Voting ends Tomorrow!
We look forward to seeing you soon!
From all of us here at Steve's Wine Bar, Cheers!
Denton Chamber of Commerce: Best Small Business of the Year.
Aug 12, 2025 at 1:36 PM
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It’s Steve’s Wine Bar's anniversary week! It’s amazing to think we are finishing 9 years of business! When we think back to May of 2016, when we agreed to purchase the wine bar, our goal was to open by July 1 that year. We ran into a few challenges that pushed our official open date to August 5th.
As we considered this opportunity that we had stepped into, we decided to sign a two-year lease just in case we found out that running a wine bar was not something we would like, or be good at. That way, we could walk away and find another project to work on.
At the end of the two years, in July 2019, we were looking to renew our lease for another 5 years. We asked the landlord for some support in updating the space, and we were told no. So we walked down Industrial and saw a space going up for lease, and we grabbed that.
And here we are. A new location from when we started. A wonderful staff that helps the business run with ease. So many people come through these doors who have worked with us, supported us, and helped make this a successful part of the Denton community. The list is way too long to note here, but we will acknowledge several people this week as we celebrate this anniversary.
Today, we officially celebrate the 9th anniversary. We will have specials on wine, live music in the afternoon and evening, and our new T-shirts will be delivered later today. We also have specials on our Steve’s Wine Bar glasses, normally $12 a stem, but this week, $9 a stem. Plus, our backyard glass covers normally go for $12 a 4-pack, and we have those available at $9 per 4-pack. Inventory is limited on everything, so don’t delay in stopping by this week.
Saturday, we will have a bigger party celebrating the 9th on the 9th, with more music, more specials, and other fun things for you to enjoy.
Between Tuesday and Saturday, we have music every night. So don’t miss out on the fun.
On Sunday, we will be closed all day as we are hosting a special 50th anniversary party for a special couple.
On Monday, August 11th, we have our third international dinner of the year. We hosted an Italian dinner in June, a French dinner in July, and now we swing through Spain with a Tapas dinner and Spanish wines.
Make sure you check our website and social media, and stay in touch with all our events.
One of the specials we have on Saturday is tasting a very special wine. We will be doing a two-ounce or larger pour of the Beaulieu Vineyards ‘Georges de Latour’ Private Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon.
A few months ago, we decided to bring in one of the most expensive wines we have ever purchased, the Beaulieu Vineyards ‘Georges de Latour’ Private Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon. Rarely do we bring in such an expensive wine, and we have many quality Cabernets, some from Napa Valley, on our menu. We splurged on this wine, which was named the #2 pick from Wine Spectator in 2024. We wanted to offer something extra-special beyond what we normally have here at the wine bar. According to BV’s website, this wine “has been widely recognized as the benchmark Cabernet Sauvignon from Rutherford since its inaugural vintage in 1936. Our understanding of terroir comes from more than 100 years of creating rich, classic Napa Valley wines.” It is an investment piece, one worth cellaring, but it’s also poised to drink now. We will pour it by Coravin exclusively at our 9th anniversary celebration on August 9th for $9 an ounce (2-oz minimum), so you can say you have had one of the world’s greatest wines.
You can read more about this wine on our Blog.
Don't forget to vote for Steve's for the Best of Denton County. Voting ends on August 13.
We look forward to seeing you soon!
From all of us here at Steve's Wine Bar, Cheers!
Denton Chamber of Commerce: Best Small Business of the Year.
A few months ago, we decided to bring in one of the most expensive wines we have ever purchased, the Beaulieu Vineyards ‘Georges de Latour’ Private Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon. Rarely do we bring in such a wine because we have many Cabernets on our menu already, and several of them are from Napa Valley. We splurged on this wine, which was named the #2 pick for Wine Spectator from 2024, because we wanted to offer something extra-special. According to BV’s website, this wine “has been widely recognized as the benchmark Cabernet Sauvignon from Rutherford since its inaugural vintage in 1936. Our understanding of terroir comes from more than 100 years of creating rich, classic Napa Valley wines.” It is an investment piece, one worth cellaring, but it’s also poised to drink now. In fact, we will be pouring it by Coravin exclusively at our 9th anniversary celebration on August 9th for $9 an ounce (2 oz. mininum), so you can say you have had one of the world’s greatest wines.
If you are curious at how it tastes, just peruse winemaker Trevor Durling’s extensive notes: “This is a truly remarkable vintage of our iconic flagship wine. The bouquet is intense with fragrant notes of wild sage, blackcurrant, cedar, and fresh mint. The palate is expansive and full-bodied with a sumptuous mouthfeel, showcasing layers of ripe blackberry, redcurrant, and red rose petal alongside earthier tones of graphite, licorice root, gravely stone, and dark chocolate. Subtle baking spices from the French oak barrel aging provide sandalwood, clove, and Ceylon cinnamon notes, while the signature ‘Rutherford Dust’ tannins are silky, polished, and fine-grained, finishing long with a cocoa powder texture. Slightly reserved upon release but incredibly drinkable, elegant, and pleasing, the tannins provide approachability with beautiful harmony and balance.”
We are excited to showcase this wine to you on Saturday, but we also sell it by the bottle if you end up falling in love with it!
Aug 4, 2025 at 9:21 AM
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While it is not exactly an Aperol Spritz, this ready-to-drink cocktail from Spritz Del Conte is simply fun without the work. Inspired by Italy’s way of life, a term called ‘La Dolce Vita,’ (and of course an iconic movie), this cocktail seeks to captivate you to a world of indulgence and life’s small pleasures. From the Spritz Del Conte website: “Every sip will transport you to Italy, where time moves a little slower and aperitivos are a way of life. Friends meet over small plates and appetizers and toast with vibrant orange drinks called Spritzes.” Best served over ice, this thirst-quenching beverage is crafted with sparkling white wine infused with aromatic herbs and natural bitter orange flavors. It’s a drink that would make even Federico Fellini proud, and it can be best enjoyed with crepes at brunch – or admittedly any time!
Mary Taylor has one of the most fantastic jobs in the world. As a négociante, she works with small wine producers, getting their bottles into the hands of people who most likely would never try them. She wants to “serve as your guide through the rural backroads and winding country lanes of the European wine route,” finding the best wines for you to consume. She is a dedicated viticulture ambassador, shining a light on underrated wine regions and little-known varieties. She is also savvy entrepreneur, having entered the business as a cheese monger and later, a wine auction editor. Taylor brings forth this delightful Bordeaux Blanc from winemaker Jean Marc Barthez, who also serves as the president of a cooperative in the ancient village of Monségur. Mostly Sauvignon Blanc with just 5% Sémillon, which brings an extra dash of kapow, the first thing you might notice about this light-bodied wine is its mouth-watering acidity. A cornucopia of fruit electrifies the palate, starting with lemon and lime, then grapefruit, and finally evolving to melon and white peach. Scallops at Supreme Crab Cajun Seafood would be a nice match for this crisp white.
Indisputably, wine melds art and science together. The Katz family encapsulates this idea perfectly: son Jesse crafts the wines, and patriarch Andy creates gorgeous images for the labels. According to Jesse, “Like my father’s ability to tell amazing stories through his photography, my greatest joy is bringing together the intricacies of space, place, and time – in essence, the terroir – that make an exceptional bottle of wine.” Jesse has been propelled into the spotlight, being included on the Forbes 30 Under 30 list; he has also been named a Wine Enthusiast 40 Under 40 Tastemaker and a Wine Spectator “Rising Star.” And this Chenin Blanc is indeed exceptional, with a beautiful label depicting a closeup of a young Chenin Blanc grape leaf in its full glory. On the palate, the grape’s naturally high acidity is balanced by generous fruits. Honeysuckle and jasmine aromas interplay with layers of green apple, pear, quince, peach, and apricot, finishing off with a tang of minerality. Savor this wine with a platter of sweet and sour pork from Mr. Chopsticks.
Grapes for Honoro Vera wines are sourced from high-altitude regions that best showcase the character of native varieties, like Tempranillo in Rioja, Verdejo in Rueda, and Monastrell (Mourvèdre) in Jumilla. This particular wine has gone one step further: in addition to the use of high-quality grapes, the vineyards are certified organic. Rainfall is scarce in Jumilla, with annual totals falling around 12 inches. This makes the vines work even harder as they must develop deep, extensive root systems that seek out groundwater. As a result, the berries are smaller with thicker skins, concentrating flavors and resistance to disease. Violet aromas pervade the Honoro Vera Monastrell, and ripe plum and blackberry transform to savory notes like balsamic and black pepper. Order the Famous Meditex Plate from the SmokeTerranean food truck, which has your choice of smoked meat, yellow rice, and harissa, and you will love how the pepper and spice from the Honoro Vera intertwine with the food.
Quinta Vale de Fornos is one of the oldest and most prestigious producers in the wine region of Tejo, which is short drive from Lisbon. Juxtaposed with the modernity of the capital, the Vale de Fornos manor house is preserved in its original 18th century design. The winery has period marble presses and an impressive collection of centuries-old oak barrels. History and tradition are very much alive at Vale de Fornos, and the Tejo DOC touts the fact that Christopher Columbus passed through these lands and Napoleon's troops were once housed here. Portuguese nobility is also part of the story: the estate was a wedding gift given by D. Antónia Ferreira for her daughter to the 3rd Count of Azambuja, and it was later acquired in 1972 by the current owners, the Duarte Monteiro family. This Vinho Tinto is a blend 40% Touriga Nacional, 20% Syrah, 20% Castelão, and 20% Alicante Bouschet. Traditional foot treading was used during fermentation, and yes, that process is still used in some parts of the country, especially for Port. Redcurrant, raspberry, cherry, mint, and cocoa emerge when tasted. With a turkey burger from Rodeo Goat, this wine will give you a kick.
Rooted in both religion and aristocracy, the Ciacci Piccolomini d’Aragona estate dates back to the 17th century, when it was built by Fabivs de' Vecchis, Bishop of Montalcino and Abbot of Sant’Antimo Abbey. After the bishop passed away, the property was auctioned off and ultimately purchased by Count Alberto Piccolomini d’Aragona and his wife Elda Ciacci. Eventually, the Countess bequeathed the estate to longtime farmer Giuseppe Bianchini who lovingly took care of its vines. Nowadays, his children run the Ciacci Piccolomini d’Aragona line. The evolution of Ciacci Piccolomini d’Aragona, from bishop to nobility to everyman, is an inspiration – as is this wine! A true Super Tuscan, this blend of mostly Sangiovese along with Syrah, Merlot, and Cabernet Sauvignon has a violet nose and cherry, plum, spice, earth, and leather traits. Cherish it with some gnocchi from Picone.
Penedès is most often associated with the sparkling wine Cava, which undergoes as strict of a fermentation as does Champagne. And while Parés Baltà does make Cava, they also craft whites and reds through their use of organic and biodynamic agriculture. The vines on the estate were first planted in 1790, making Parés Baltà one of the most established wineries in Catalunya. Grandfather Joan Cusiné Hill first tended to the grapes when he was 7; his son, the wonderfully named Joan Cusiné Cusiné later oversaw the estate, and now the current generation of winemakers, Joan and Josep and their wives, María Elena and Marta, lead the team at Parés Baltà, on a quest to make the best wines using the most pristine of processes. Marta was even recognized as the Best Winemaker of 2024 by Master of Wine Tim Atkin. The blend for the Mas Petit is 57% Garnacha and 43% Cabernet Sauvignon, and it shows off a predominance of cherry and plum alongside some vanilla, licorice, spice, and earthy notes. If you can find it, a bowl of sopa de albóndigas (Spanish meatballs) would be delicious with the Mas Petit.
Namesake Mauro Molino went to oenology school in the 1970s in Alba, a subregion of Piemonte, and spent five years garnering winemaking experience in Emilia Romagna. After his father passed away, Molino returned home to his family’s farm in La Morra and made the decision to craft his own wines. Thus, Mauro Molino was founded in 1982 when Molino released his first vintage, a Barolo. Molino’s children Matteo and Martino joined the family business in the early 2000’s, cementing Mauro Molino as a brand that would stand the test of time. With a focus on aromatics and elegance, their wines express the unique terroir of Piemonte. The ‘Leradici’ a term that means ‘the roots,’ is a special wine as it is dedicated to Molino’s father, Giuseppe. This Barbera conveys violet on the nose as well as a mixture of primary and secondary traits like blackberry, dark plum, crushed stones, and spice. Grab a slice of pepperoni and sausage pizza from Jonuzi’s, and the ‘Leradici’ will become your favorite!
One of the oldest farming families in Lodi, the Mettlers are involved in each phase of wine production, from vine to sales. Eight generations ago, the Mettler family was living in Alsace growing grapes, so a passion for winemaking is practically in their DNA. They still cultivate some of the original plots in Lodi, which date back to the late 1800s. They are progressive in their farming techniques, undergoing the ‘Lodi Rules’ process to become certified sustainable. This means they engage in integrated pest management, cover crops, composting, and disease prevention practices. Furthermore, in 2010, they became certified organic through the California Certified Organic Farmers organization. In their words, the Mettlers “hold a fundamental belief in giving back to the land, to maintain its bounty and nourish the soil to last for many generations to come.” The result is in the glass. From Zin vines that are at least 50 years old, the ‘Epicenter’ boasts notes of wild blueberry, blackberry, plum, vanilla, sage, black pepper, and cedar. Most cuisines would taste even better with this satisfying and luxurious wine, but the logical choice is BBQ.
Aug 1, 2025 at 5:09 AM
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We often get asked about what Cabernets we have on our racks from Napa. The most famous region in the United States for wine, representing 25,000 acres of Cabernet Sauvignon under vine, Napa Valley indisputably crafts quintessential quality Cabs. Our number one seller has been Cakebread Napa Cabernet, and it is every bit as good as you believe it will be. We also offer Wine Spectator’s #2 Wine in the World for 2024, the BV Georges de LeTour Private Reserve Cabernet, which we will be pouring by the ounce at our 9th anniversary celebration on Saturday, August 9. Our bottle pricing is for this wine is very competitive, but feel free to try an ounce or two for $9/oz. at our anniversary if you are curious why this wine is held in such high regard. We also have a few other Napa Cabs that equally as fun, if not as well-known, including the Hendry Napa Cab, which comes from a single vineyard and has been aged 23 months in 90% new French oak barrels. The Foley Johnson Cabernet is Napa’s own rendition of Bordeaux, with small touches of Petit Verdot, Cabernet Franc, and Malbec. One of my personal favorites is Groth, and we have their 40th anniversary Cab from Oakville, which is an homage to co-founder Judy Groth. We also tout the Truchard Estate Cabernet, which is additionally on our by-the-glass menu. The Truchards are native Texans who moved to cool-climate Carneros, one of the most-respected families in Napa. Oh, and we have one bottle left of the Quattro Theory Napa Cabernet, which we highlighted at a tasting event with the brand ambassador earlier this year. It’s classic, elegant, and food-friendly. If you have an upcoming celebration or feel like opening a Napa Cab just because, please come to Steve’s and let us help you – believe me, we have a lot of excellent choices!
Jul 21, 2025 at 8:24 AM
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The July 31st edition of Wine Spectator is devoted to the perfect summer accompaniment, white wine. According to their cited statistics, “white wines now account for 43% of global wine consumption,” which is a 10% increase in the past 20 years. While arguably more nuanced and elegant than red wine, whites shine with many dishes, including red meat (you would want to pair it with a heftier white like Chardonnay or Viognier, but I say drink what you like!). We at Steve’s Wine Bar certainly have you covered with the most iconic white grapes, like Pinot Grigio (we even have a classic version and one with skin contact in our rosé flight right now), Chardonnay (we run the gamut from Chablis to buttery California Chard), Riesling (I am excited we just brought in a bone-dry powerhouse from Alsace), and, of course, Sauvignon Blanc (we have it all – New Zealand, France, and California). We also have several of the varieties featured in Wine Spectator’s article “10 Exciting White Grapes to Know.” One of my favorite grapes, Aligoté is the second most planted white in Burgundy; you must check out the Louis Chenu, a juicy rendition. Chenin Blanc has been a staple in the bar as we have carried the Les Lys Vouvray for a long time, which is full of almond and stone fruit, finishing with the lightest kiss of honey. The opening wine to June’s wine club was the Cormòns Malvasia, a restrained, mineral-forward white grown in Friuli as well as Croatia. Finally, another white to watch is Vermentino, known as Rolle in France. We offer a California version, the Monte Volpe, which conveys electric acidity plus lime, apple, and pear. While reds far outweigh whites on our bottle menu, we have plenty of whites that will make you smile. You can also try our flight of 4 whites which changes monthly.
Jul 7, 2025 at 6:10 PM
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Good Monday afternoon!
We hope your 4th of July weekend was fantastic, and if you went out of town, your travels have been smooth and easy.
We had a great tasting event with Jeff Faber from Opolo last week. We continue to promote their products online, including their 3-wine tasting kits for those interested in doing their own tasting at home. Please visit our Specials page to order some of these tasting kits, three-packs, or just a few bottles to pick up and take home.
We wrap up the Drops of God tonight with the final two episodes. For those who have been joining us, we will be in the main room, popcorn popping, and wine (and beer) ready to drink.
We will kick off an evening Jazz Jam Session at 6 PM after Paul's Happy Hour performance.
Even though it's Summer, Tuesday is still Teacher Tuesday with Happy Hour Prices for teachers all day long.
Thursday is Half-Price Bottle Night. Each month, we select 10 different wines to feature at Half-Price to enjoy here at the bar.
Friday, the Blues Crew is back. Even though the online reservations are sold out, we still have room for walk-ins that night.
Saturday afternoon, the Irish Pub Experience is back at 3 PM with our group of musicians playing classic Irish music for you to enjoy.
Then, that evening at 7:30, we have a very special jazz piano experience with the Dave Meder Trio! There are still reserved seats available for you to grab in advance of the performance.
Check out our Events Page for all the fun activities we have scheduled for the month ahead.
Just to remind everyone, due to circumstances out of our control, we have been asked to cancel the Di Abruzzo dinner that was scheduled for tonight.
Next Monday, the 14th, we have the Bastille Day dinner. Suzanne Johnson has created a 7-course meal, and we will have select wines to pair with the dinner, all for only $70. Please reserve in advance so we know how much food to make for the group.
The Best of Denton Voting is happening again. If you have not yet voted, we are nominated in several categories in the Bars and Nightlife section, as well as Shopping. We would love your vote!
Under Bars and Nightlife, you will see us in Best Bar, Best Happy Hour, Best Music Venue, and Best Wine List.
In the Shopping category, you will find us listed in the Best Wine Shop.
Thanks for all your support!
Have a great week!
From all of us here at Steve's Wine Bar, Cheers!
Denton Chamber of Commerce: Best Small Business of the Year.
Jul 7, 2025 at 10:00 AM
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