There’s something that I love about visiting any brewery, winery/vineyard/cellar or distillery – it’s the people. For me, getting to know the people behind a name provides a deeper meaning into the heart of their product. I’ve noticed that some of my favorite conversations come from people I’ve met in locations such as these. Lost Draw Cellars is in this list.
The morning we visited Lost Draw Cellars, I left blown away and I’m not referring to a buzz from the wine. This wasn’t the typical tasting. Yes, the wine was phenomenal but the conversation and inspiration really kicked it up a notch. I met a man named Troy, who soon became my favorite person in Fredericksburg. Troy is one of three partners in Lost Draw Cellars and more importantly a man of the community which shines through in Lost Draw Cellars. A sixth generation Fredericksburg community member, his family helped found Fredericksburg and he believes in creating and keeping the community close. This isn’t just a business, he cares about each and every person that walks through the doors and brings a new level of honesty and integrity.
Lost Draw Cellars opened in 2014 – not that long ago. In that short time, they’ve won numerous awards including those from the San Francisco Chronicle, San Antonio Rodeo, Lone Star International and the Battle of the Texas Tempranillos (1st place in 2014) and had two wines featured in Texas Monthly’s Best Wines of 2015. That’s pretty impressive for being open for less than two years. Needless to say, their wines are spectacular. There has got to be something great going on when you’re coming out of the gates that strong.
Located a short distance from Main Street, Lost Draw is part of the Urban Wine Trail. Why leave the comfort of town when tastings are within walking distance?! Upon entering Lost Draw, one notices the details. First, it may the old fuel pump by the back wall or the windmill on the ceiling, the photos of family, friends and the operation on the walls. Inside, there is a sitting room and outside there is a large patio area for events and sunny days.
During our visit, we tasted six different wine and had an incredible conversation with Troy and Matt about how Lost Draw came to be. (Read more about their history here.) The grapes are grown in Brownfield, Texas, southwest of Lubbock on a 250-acre vineyard (one of the largest producers in the state). 75% of the states grapes are grown in this county. In 2012, Troy and his two partners Andy Timmons and Andrew Sides joined forces and started the vineyard. In 2014, Lost Draw Cellars opened and the rest is history.
Tastings:
2013 Gemütlichkeit “People gathered will have good fellowship / a good time.” Welcome to Lost Draw Cellars. This is the basis of their community and the goal when visiting the location, bringing together history, tradition and community.
2014 Viognier
2014 Arroyo Rosé – a dry rosé, not as sweet as a typical rosé but perfect for those warm Texas summer evenings. Featured on Texas Monthly’s Best Wines of 2015 list.
2013 Arroyo Rojo
2012 Tempranillo
2013 Sangiovese – 2nd wine featured on Texas Monthly’s Best Wines of 2015 list.
My personal favorites were the Voignier and the Arroyo Rojo, followed by the Arroyo Rosé and the Tempranillo. Well, let’s just say I loved every single wine we tried. Each brought a new aroma and body fit for the perfect day.
When visiting you’ll notice the details. The cabinets are made from wooden barrels, the mason jar with a blue ribbon from the Gillespie County Fair (ask Troy about this one for sure), the gas pump and the chalkboard on the wall.
The Pour it Forward chalkboard is one of my favorite aspects about Lost Draw Cellars – it’s holding onto the theme of bringing in the community. Buy a glass and pour it forward. Leave a name or description of who you’d like to leave a glass for – perhaps someone specific such as Diana from Down Home Traveler (hint, hint) or the next teacher, veteran or firefighter that comes in.
Come claim your glass!! I left a glass for the next Vermonter and I’m really curious to see how long that stays on the board so someone please let me know!
When in Fredericksburg, head to Lost Draw Cellars first.
The hardest decision that you’ll make is picking which one to bring home.
Lost Draw Cellars
113 E. Park St.
Fredericksburg, TX 78624
www.lostdrawcellars.com
For more information on our trip to Fredericksburg and what there is to do, see my previous post: 48 Hours in Fredericksburg, Texas
Gotta go check this out. Great review!
Patti recently posted…Dyson Ball Multi Floor Upright Vacuum
Thank you! We had such a great experience. We can’t wait to go back!
so fun!! i haven’t been there, but I’d like to. Anything with wine perks my interest!
elle
Southern Elle Style
Elle Spann recently posted…Men’s Spring Style Essentials
There’s so much to do in Fredericksburg and never enough time. Next time you are there, definitely check them out. They’re wine is amazing!
Great post on one of our favorite wineries! And nice shout out for their win at the Battle of the Texas Tempranillos. Hopefully we’ll meet somewhere along the trail. Cheers!
Jeff Cope recently posted…2016 North Texas Road Trip
Thank you Jeff. We had such a great time and can’t wait to go back. A must stop for all wine lovers! I’m sure we will cross paths along the way! Looking forward to it. Have a great week!
This is so great! We love Fredericksburg. (We got married there.) We’re due for a trip back & this is going on the list! Great review!
Hi Chrissy! Perhaps a next anniversary trip?! Thank you for visiting the list, we had so much fun! Looking forward to hearing about your adventures in Fredericksburg on your next journey!