Your Way - Or My Way

May 10th
Stop #4: WindCrest Winery

After visiting James Arthur Vineyards, we made the short trip to WindCrest Winery, which is also located near Raymond. We serendipitously arrived just as the owner was coming back in from his fields for a break.

Dale Lilyhorn has, so far, been one of my favorite people to visit. In his straw hat and pocketed T-shirt, he is the image of hard work, though one would probably assume he had been tending cattle rather than grapes.

As we were about ready to begin our tasting, Mr. Lilyhorn gave us an unexpected option: "You can do the tasting your way, or my way." "Your" way is the traditional tasting: choose six wines from his selection, and each sample would be of typical tasting proportion. "His" way, on the other hand, entailed a smaller portion of each of his twelve wines. By accepting this unique offer, the taster is allowed to step outside his or her comfort zone and experience something that he or she may not have otherwise tried.

We chose to do it his way, of course.

As we sampled all of his wines, Mr. Lilyhorn talked about each one, offering suggestions for pairings and answering our questions, both about the wines and himself. Mr. Lilyhorn opened his winery in 2007, after getting his start by growing grapes for his neighbor, James Arthur. When I asked if he had liked wine before becoming a grower, he smiled and gave us his answer - it was then that we realized we were in the presence of a kindred spirit.

"Oh yes. I used to make milk gallon wine in college. We used to hide it behind the furnace to avoid getting caught."

If you have the opportunity to visit WindCrest Winery for a tasting, do, and do it Dale's way. And when you come across a new favorite, make sure to buy a bottle, as it is not currently available in stores. It's well worth it.

Favorites: St. Vincent and Cherry Delight

WindCrest Winery's Website