Nestled in the heart of Marfa, Texas, Alta Marfa Winery has become a burgeoning name in the wine world. With an exclusive collection of vineyards spreading across Texas and New Mexico, Alta Marfa specializes in crafting distinct wines from a variety of grapes.
At an elevation ranging from 1,780 to 5,400 feet, each vineyard introduces a unique blend of soil types, weather conditions, and farming practices, contributing to the flavors and aromas of the wines produced.
Among the Texas Davis Mountains AVA vineyards, Living Water Vineyard, farmed by Bobby Roberts, is distinguished by its volcanic soil and 5,000 feet elevation. Here, Montepulciano grapes are grown without any spraying, lending to a 2-year-old vine.
Texas Hill Country AVA is home to High Cross Vineyard and Good Vibes Vineyard, which are recognized for their limestone and sandy loam soils respectively. Farmed by Erika & Cam Campbell and Erik & April Reyes, these vineyards yield Tempranillo and Roussanne grapes.
In Lynn County, within Texas High Plains AVA, Crooked Post Vineyard and Kubacak Vineyards present unique blends of grapes like Tempranillo, Roussane, Orange Muscat, and Gruner Veltliner, all cultivated under farming practices that avoid herbicides.
Forbidden Desert Vineyard, situated in New Mexico, is noted for its deep sand soil and an elevation of 4,600 feet. The vine age here stands at 40 years, and grapes such as Chardonnay, Chenin Blanc, and Pinot Noir are grown without herbicides, fungicides, or pesticides.
Alta Marfa’s own vineyards, Alta Marfa Vineyard at Blue Mountain Trail and Alta Marfa Grand Prix Vineyard, are not yet producing grapes but are anticipated for their volcanic soil, high elevation, and red Portuguese and white field blends.
Wine enthusiasts are welcome to explore the winery on Saturdays and Sundays from 2 PM to sundown. Alta Marfa offers tasting flights, by-the-glass, and bottle options, complemented by an array of snacks such as tinned fish and crackers.
For those planning to visit, be sure to check their calendar for special food pop-ups, events, and any dates the winery may be closed. Located at 1305 W San Antonio St, Marfa, TX 79843, more information on Alta Marfa Winery and their vineyards can be found on their website at www.altamarfa.com.
Alta Marfa Winery’s innovative approach to winemaking, coupled with the diversity of vineyards, sets a new standard for wineries across the region. The blend of traditional farming practices with unique regional characteristics has proven to be a recipe for success, offering wine lovers a taste of the high desert they won’t soon forget.
