Dorothy’s Wizard of Oz line, “Toto, I’ve a feeling we’re not in Kansas anymore” is infamous, but I’ll be telling Toto, there’s a new Kansas. Kansas wineries. Our afternoon did not summon lions, scarecrows or tin men, not even a single Dorothy sighting.
However, if you’ve taken DOMSOM’s “wine education for the rest of us” course, you’ll know references to winemakers being wizards and magicians. And we tasted a few of Aubrey Vineyard’s winemaking wizards bottling today!
As with many of my adventures, I sometimes forget to plan ahead and book a wine tasting in advance. Never fear, Drew at Aubrey was more than encouraging a visit, even for a quick stop by, on a Mother’s Day booked solid open to close. Not one to turn down a chance to explore a new vineyard, my Mom and Aunt became my afternoon partner’s in crime for a little wine time! Luck was on our side and we scored a table on the patio.
New Kansas with a long history
Aubrey Vineyards is named after Francois X Aubrey. Aubrey was a famous horseman riding the Santa Fe Trails between Independence, MO and Santa Fe, NM in record time. The current vineyard sits on the site of Aubrey Township.
A quick drive south on the MO / KS state line and a lovely drive through the vineyards. We were met by vines with fresh leaves and flowering buds on trellised vines before being popped out at the red barn with anticipation. Aubrey’s Mother’s Day flight for the ladies and a special selection concocted by Drew just for me!
Catawba Rosé: This N. American hybrid was once a shining star on the American wine scene – back in the 1800’s that is! This rosé gives more than enough reason for a comeback. A heady, rustic, aroma sometimes referred to as “foxy” provides a bit of trickery on the palette. First sip revealed crisp acidity and ripe, fresh fruit aromas of blood orange and melon. Bonus! Stainless steel fermentation is finished with an infusion of CO2 for a lightly bubbled spritz.
Vidal Blanc: Aubrey’s top selling white for a reason. Love Sauvignon Blanc? This hybrid varietal gives ripe grapefruit aromas and flavors without the super high citrus (think more the sweeter, deeper orange grapefruit). Balanced with bright acidity and a bit of grassy, herbally flavors on the back end. It’s fun, it’s fresh and it’s ready to drink now! Best news for winemaker’s in this part of the Midwest, Vidal Blanc can sustain the long, cold winters and come out shining each spring!
More discoveries from our Kansas wine adventure
Rosé of Crimson Cabernet: Limited availability as one of the winemaker’s special projects from the 2021 harvest, this unique rosé is made with the Crimson Cabernet varietal. Years of effort finally resulted in the successful breeding of a Norton (native to the U.S.) and Cabernet Sauvignon (famed for its gorgeous red wine) crossbreed. Providing the heartiness of the native Norton with the intensity and power of Cab Sauv, this rosé was a special treat Drew just knew I needed to try! Oh, and to take a few bottles back to Texas with me!
Traditional method bubbles blending Frontenac Blanc, Lacrosse and Chardonnel showed zingy acidity and tart green apples. While tank method bubbles of the same varietals but with a switch to Frontenac Blanc resulted in an almondy, nutty bubble with soft fizz and lusciousness. We sipped, we laughed and we enjoyed every moment of our visit to Aubrey Vineyards. A perfect Mother’s Day!
Cheers 🍷🥂🍾
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