Vina Cardinal


 

While there are many aspects about the history of New Mexico that are fascinating one for me tends to stand out more than others, that this is the first wine producing state in America. In a country where California dominates the wine scene, it is hard to believe that because of the Spanish influence the first wine grapes were planted in New Mexico. Of course, the mission grape was used mainly as a sacramental wine and not for commercial use, but if it wasn’t for the colonization and that grape who knows if wine would have ever been produced here. Thankfully for us a variation of this wine still exists today. Using the Listan Prieto grape (mission grape) Vara makes a wine that pays homage to the original wine in not only New Mexico but the United States, Vina Cardinal. 

Now, this is no ordinary bottle of wine. For starters in is only available in a 500ml bottle, and while not to the extent of port it is fortified with a little bit of brandy resulting in a 17% abv bottle of wine. When I went to pour a glass, I was expecting a deep red wine, but instead was surprised to find a rose. The brandy did come off in the nose as well as a subtle melon aroma. It was very unique, but also very intriguing. The first sip validated my thoughts on the nose that this is not like any wine you have ever had. 

Given that this is a rose I was expecting a light, fruity, sweet wine best served on a patio for warm summer days. Instead, what I got was a medium bodied, still fruity, subtly sweet wine full of complex flavors. Slightly fortifying this wine made it such a unique glass it is hard to describe. The body aside the flavor profile was so unique. The melon from the aroma carried over into the flavor, along with a subtle spice note. The sweetness was there, but not overpowering. The brandy was present, but only in the aftertaste. Put all factors together, and it was a very complex, and rich glass of wine that is unlike anything you will ever have. While it is a glass you will sip on for a while, I highly recommend trying it at least once. 

After having a glass and thinking about it I am very glad I decided to try this wine. Not only is it a true one-of-a-kind drinking experience, but it is a great reminder of why we have a wine industry in New Mexico to begin with. If it weren’t for the Spanish monasteries there might have never been a wine industry here to begin with. Thankfully wineries like Vara keep that Spanish tradition of winemaking alive for all of us to enjoy. While they have a diverse menu of Spanish style wines Vina Cardinal is a true gem. I have never had any wine like this, and I doubt I will again in the future, so if you have a chance to try it don’t pass on the opportunity. It is yet another great example of how history is continuously preserved in New Mexico. 

To see photos of my adventures check out my Instagram @the_nm_tx or tag me using #thenmtx
To support my adventures check out www.patreon.com/thenmtx 


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