November 25, 2024 – On the evening of November 21, 2024, just in time for Thanksgiving celebrations, Wedding Oak Winery founder Mike McHenry and his team proudly accepted the prestigious “Best of Show” award for their exceptional 2023 Castanet Rosé. The honor was bestowed at the renowned 2024 San Antonio Stock Show & Rodeo International Wine Competition, a testament to the winery’s commitment to crafting world-class Texas wines that captivate both judges and wine lovers alike.
Wedding Oak Winery 2023 Castanet Rosé, which also placed as the 2024 Grand Star Winner of the Lone Star International Wine Competition, is the latest vintage of best-selling rose from cinsault grapes grown by Lilli of the Vine Vineyard in Lamesa Texas. The 2023 Castanet Rosé greets the senses with an inviting bouquet of aromas. The nose is characterized by an alluring blend of fresh strawberries, zesty Meyer lemon, and bright orange zest. These primary notes are complemented by hints of ripe raspberries, juicy apricots, and exotic guava, creating a complex and fragrant profile. Subtle undertones of mango and delicate rose water add an extra layer of sophistication to the aroma. On the palate, this rosé offers a refreshing and harmonious experience. The initial flavors of tangy lemons and sweet strawberries are prominent, providing a lively and crisp taste. The mid-palate is balanced with a touch of residual sugar that enhances the fruitiness without overwhelming the natural acidity. This balance results in a smooth and satisfying finish, leaving a pleasant aftertaste that lingers, inviting another sip
Wedding Oak Winery 2023 Castanet Rosé isn’t just an award-winning wine—it’s also a perfect addition to your Thanksgiving table. With its bright, fruity notes and crisp finish, it complements a wide array of traditional holiday dishes, from roasted turkey and cranberry sauce to savory sides like stuffing and green beans. Its versatility and elegance make it an ideal choice for bringing family and friends together to toast the season.
Thanksgiving Wine Pairing Tips:
As we head into holidays and prepare for festive gatherings, here are some general tips and things to ponder when deciding which wines to pair with dishes this Thanksgiving:
Rule #1: Pairing wine with food is all about balance. Heavier dishes shine with fuller-bodied wines, while lighter, more delicate dishes pair best with subtle, lighter wines. The classic “white wine with white meat” and “red wine with red meat” guideline is grounded in science: for example, red wine’s tannins can clash with fish, often making it taste metallic, while white wine’s tannin-free profile pairs perfectly. On the flip side, red meat’s proteins soften tannins, making red wine taste smoother. When it comes to Thanksgiving turkey, its mix of white and dark meat makes it a versatile partner, pairing beautifully with both crisp white wines and lighter reds, while the dark meat thrives with richer reds.
Rule #2: Fatty foods and acidic wines make a perfect match. The zippy acidity in the wine acts as a “palate refresher,” cutting through the richness and keeping each bite enjoyable. For example, a crisp white wine pairs beautifully with creamy mashed potatoes smothered in turkey gravy.
Rule # 3: Spicy dishes shine when paired with sweeter wines. The heat in the food can make dry wines seem overly bitter or sharp, but a touch of residual sugar smooths out this effect. An off-dry wine is a perfect companion for spicy Brussels sprouts.
Rule #4: Wine pairing at Thanksgiving is much like family dynamics—it works when it either complements or contrasts. Complementary pairings match flavors, like a buttery Chardonnay with notes of lemon enhancing a lemon butter sauce. On the other hand, contrasting pairings can be just as delightful, such as the sweet notes of a Riesling balancing the salty tang of bleu cheese.
Rule #5: Sweet dishes pair best with equally sweet or sweeter wines. While it may feel indulgent to pour a dessert wine alongside sugary pastries, the sugar in food can make dry wines taste bitter and harsh. And really, who can resist the charm of a perfectly sweet wine to close out a meal?
