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FAIRHAVEN WINERY AND TASTING ROOM OPENS FOR BUSINESS

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It was a freezing cold day in February 2004 when R.L. Winters and his crew started the process of planting grape vines in the newly plowed vineyard on FM 2869. While the planting crew was busy lining out the new vines, passersby would pull over on the shoulder of the road and watch the planting process, mystified as to what was going on in the field.
Well, nearly six years later, where there was an empty field, is now a mature vineyard that is one of the most productive in the state. And, this vineyard supplies a mountain of estate grown grapes to the new hi-tech winery located in the middle of the sprawling vineyard.
What makes this particular winery so unique is the array of fine wines produced there. The Winters family has focused on the historical aspect of wine production. Virtually all of the wines produced at Fairhaven are derived from either French American hybrid or American hybrid grapes. The wines produced from the class of American hybrids fall into the category of extremely rare wines. Mr. Winters says, "We have gone to great lengths to save an important part of American history with the development and preservation of the work of the great Texas grape breeder Thomas Volney Munson. One of the fine wines we have produced this year from our T.V.M Heritage Series is Lomanto. This grape hasn't seen commercial production and bottling for over 116 years, and we are honored to play a part in bringing this stunning wine back to the table." As R.L. Winters puts it, "We are proud to say that we aren't putting just any wine on the table, but rather, a glass of Texas history that you can hold in your hand and savor".
Fairhaven's production style has focused on the old world techniques of handmade wines aged in new oak barrels only. "Not exactly the least expensive way to produce a wine", according to R.L. Winters, "but certainly the best way". Fairhaven's technique of whole cluster fermentation and careful aging produces wines that retain the distinctive fruit flavor of each variety, and at the same time are soft and supple.
On Tuesday, December 1, the doors open to the public for the first time. Visitors will be treated to wine served in a section of the winery reserved for tasting. Light fare food service will be offered including European fine cut meats, cheeses and artisan breads.
The wine list includes Chambourcin, Seyval Blanc, Norton, Syrah, Lomanto, Aliona (sweet red), Chardonnay, Cabernet Sauvignon, Ariadne (blend). Wines will be available as tastings, by the glass, or by the bottle.
The new facility is located at 5340 FM 2869, 1.8 miles north of Hwy 80 (on FM 2869), outside of Hawkins, Texas. Mapping directions are available on the Fairhaven website at www.fairhavenvineyrds.com.
Operating hours will be 10am to 10pm. For special event reservations and information please contact the winery directly at 903-769-4616.
 

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