CINSAULT (SAN-SOH)

Thought to originate in Provence, the Cinsault grape is mostly used as a blending grape for reds in the Languedoc and Rhône Valley, while you can also see it included in Provençal rosés. Still, there are producers in France and California who produce a varietal version of Cinsault you can enjoy in the heat of summer. Like the others I mention here, Cinsault wines are bright, fruit-driven wines loaded with red fruits. Throw a little chill on them and they become immanently suitable for summer sipping. One fun fact about Cinsault is that the oldest surviving vines are thought to be in the Bechtold vineyard, planted in 1886, in Lodi, California of all places. Well known California producers Turley and Sandlands both make a small production of Cinsault from that vineyard.

Final Thoughts

As I said at the beginning, white wines and rosé are often the go-to wines for summer sipping. Hopefully, I have given you some ideas on fun reds out there to try when heavier reds like Cabernet Sauvignon are just…out of place. Don’t be afraid to experiment with chilling these red wines I have mentioned here. They don’t have to be ice-cold, but a bit of a chill can go a long way to enhancing your enjoyment. You might even surprise your family or guests by showing them something new to consider. As always, I only recommend something when I have convinced myself it works. And these work!

Follow Jim on Instagram, @tx_wine_pilot, for more wine tips and reviews.

Jim Peterson is a retired U.S. Air Force officer who mainly flew the A-10 fighter jet. He has ties to the wine business going back over 20 years and is an avid wine collector. His extensive wine knowledge includes travel to many wine regions, tasting many of the world’s top wines, and ongoing personal wine exploration. He has cultivated a large following on his Instagram account, @tx_wine_pilot. He works in marketing now, but you can also find him helping customers on Saturdays at JS Fine Wines in San Antonio, Texas.

by NANCY FOSTER

Texan Events

Kerrville has always been a hotspot for Texans -- and for good reason. For some, it’s an escape from big city life, where gently rolling hills, winding roads and the flowing waters of the Guadalupe River make for an idyllic quick getaway – or even a second home. Kerrville is also an easy day trip from anywhere in the Hill Country. This small city mixes history and culture with nature and tosses in friendly residents that make you feel welcome. Browse the charming, historic downtown, grab some food for a picnic at the park, go fishing, hiking, shopping at the flagship James Avery retail store, or enjoy a really good meal at one of the locallyowned restaurants (many offer pretty river views, so plan for a leisurely al fresco dining experience). A bonus reason to visit is the abundance of things to do. Week in and week out there are so many events, exhibitions and festivals that it sometimes makes it difficult to choose – especially in the fall when the weather is mild and leaves are brilliant. We’ll give you a few choices so you can plan in advance – and maybe stay for the weekend.

Texan Events

Cailloux Theater

Downtown Kerrville is rich in culture, and the hub of it all is the beautiful 800seat Kathleen C. Cailloux City Center for the Performing Arts. A stellar lineup of shows, plays and concerts kicks off with a wine and cheese celebration on Sunday, July 23 to announce the 2023/24 season of The Cailloux performance international performing arts series. And, mark your calendar for September 29th when longtime country/rock legends, “Exile” appear in concert at 7:30 p.m. caillouxperformingarts.com

Museum Of Western Art

September 8 – 9 – Love western art? Here’s your chance to add to your collection as the Museum of Western Art celebrates its 40th Annual Roundup Exhibition and Sale with two days of public daytime events, a ticketed steak dinner/awards banquet in their beautiful outdoor pavilion and a Saturday evening quick-draw sale of art showcasing the talents of over 60 of the most respected western artists in the U.S. The exhibit will remain up through October 28th but the weekend is well worth attending. Info at: museumofwesternart.com

Texan Events

Riverside Nature Center Run

September 9 – If you’re into running, the Run for Riverside 5K should be on your “gotta do it” list. It will kick off at 8:00 a.m. at Riverside Nature Center and follow the course along the picturesque City River Trail adjacent to the Guadalupe River. Pre-register at www.athleteguild. com/event/kerrville-tx/2023-run-for-riverside-5k-run-and-walk

Kerr Arts And Cultural Center

September 18 – 23, How fun! Paint Kerrville! is a plein air painters’ event hosted by the Outdoor Painters Society and the Kerr Arts & Cultural Center. Artists from all over the U.S. come to capture the unique Kerrville landscapes and buildings on canvas, and here’s your chance to view their creations at the VIP ticketed reception on September 23 and buy some fabulous art! kacckerrville.com

Texas Arts And Crafts Fair

September 23-24 – Who doesn’t love fairs? The 2023 Texas Arts and Crafts Fair celebrates its 51st year with over 150 Texas artists, craft makers, musicians and demonstrators that showcase and sell their fabulous original art and crafts creations. Held on the grounds of the beautiful Hill Country Arts Foundation in Ingram (the nextdoor neighbor to Kerrville), this fair, known as Texas’ Official State Arts and Crafts Fair, attracts thousands who enjoy the art, presentations from the Army Camel Project, a slew of live musical acts and lots of good eats from regional food trucks. Make sure to see the permanently-based Stonehenge II sculpture! txartsandcraftsfair.com

Texan Events

Symphony Of The Hills

October 4 – Music lovers will be delighted by the wondrous Symphony of the Hills, a 75-piece orchestra bringing classical and pops performances to the downtown Cailloux Theater. The kick-off concert to their 23rd season of five originally-programmed concerts will be the world-premiere of Schreiner University’s Centennial Celebration. symphonyofthehills.org

Welcome Home Fest

October 12 – 15 – the third Welcome Home Fest, a family-friendly event produced by the Kerrville Folk Festival Foundation, will be held on the grounds of Quiet Valley Ranch in Kerrville. Musical talent includes The McMercy Family Band, Kinky Friedman, Laraaji, Grace Rowland (of the Deer) and Michael Hurley. kerrvillefolkfestival.org/welcome-home-fest

Eclipse

October 14 may well be a hectic time in Kerrville. In addition to the events mentioned here, this is also the day of the annular eclipse and Kerrville is in its direct path. NASA has selected the city as one of only three U.S. sites chosen as primary partner locations where they will cover the spectacle live. Gearing up for tens of thousands of visitors is on everyone’s minds, and many hotels/ RVs/Campgrounds and B&Bs are already booked; however, the welcome mat will still be out. A plentitude of activities is planned including the Kerrville River Festival held by the banks of the Guadalupe River at Louise Hays Park, where locals and visitors will revel in tons of music, food, entertainment –and spectacular fireworks to end the day.

Kerrville Chalk Festival

October 14 - 15 - Situated on the historic and well-appointed downtown square, The Kerrville Chalk Festival will surely capture the imaginations of the young and young at heart. Watch as more than 65 artists from across the U.S. create massive chalk murals directly on the pavement for all to enjoy. The temporary masterpieces take two days to complete but are washed away with the next rain. Live music, gourmet food trucks, and locally crafted wine and beer are served throughout the weekend. kerrviillechalk.org

Texas Furniture Makers Show

November 2 – December 15 - Want to be wowed? Then definitely do not miss the amazing Texas Furniture Makers Show held at the Kerr Arts & Cultural Center. Come view exquisite one-of-a-kind, handcrafted furniture, accessories and home décor made by the best craftsmen in Texas….then buy a piece or two for your own home or office. Everything is heirloom worthy! kacckerrville.com

Have enough ideas? Plan now for a fun escape to beautiful Kerrville, and if you need lodging, dining and attraction info, visit the Kerrville Convention & Visitors Bureau site at www.kerrvilletexascvb.com. Remember, the welcome mat is always out in Kerrville!

Nancy Foster has authored more than 400 articles for national, regional and local magazines and newspapers, including regular contributions to Allegiant airlines in-flight magazine, My Non-Stop Life. She heads Foster Tourism Marketing based in Kerrville and has clients in the hotel and attraction industry, including the Museum of Western Art in Kerrville.

Texan Fashion

Bohemian style is as much a state of mind as it is a fashion statement. The loose fitting, soft colors of the summer look go hand in hand with the breathable, natural fabrics associated with the warming temps. Inspired by the style of the 60s and 70s, the updated, current Boho look oozes relaxed style and comfort.