Kiepersol
“Live what is in your sphere? Many people have said ‘forever’, and sometimes it doesn’t last that long. Enjoy it while it lasts. Be happy with yourself. It’s an awesome consolation knowing that you’re rare.” Peter de Wet
These words were penned by Peter de Wet, a South African farmer who immigrated to the United States and eventually settled with his two daughters in East Texas. I was privileged to hear their story and visit the beautiful vineyard of Kiepersol.
It’s an easy drive down Highway 20 toward Tyler, enjoying tall pines and rolling hills, and you find yourself wondering what this mini-adventure will bring. Arriving at Kiepersol you find accessible entrances and friendly people waiting to tell the tales and serve some tasty wines, in fact, there are two tasting areas, one for the wines and the other, for the spirits.
A wonderful woman, Sandra, arrives and begins to share the stories of Pierre, and his daughters, Velmay and Marmelle. They have farming in their blood and South Africa in their soul. Combining the love of both they have created a warm destination that includes a Bed and Breakfast retreat, a top-rated steak and seafood restaurant, and the tasting rooms.
Founded in 1998, the 63-acre vineyard produces grapes used for both white and red wines. Only grapes grown on the Kiepersol estate are used, none are imported from other regions or farms. In the tasting, you may choose different varieties. I found several award-winning wines including BarrelNo.33 to be complex, smooth and ready for a special dinner or just simple enjoyment. My friend and I decided the Artize was a porch sipping wine, light and sweet.
The distillery was a surprise and a learning experience. The awards for these Texas-based spirits just keep coming. Seeing the way the spirits are made and learning the stories behind the naming of each was delightful. For example, the handcrafted Bourbon is named Jimmys, for a family member who was a World War Two pilot. The bottle has Aviator sunglasses on its label to carry the story. Did you know Bourbon means American whiskey? The only whiskey made in America can call itself Bourbon. The amber color comes from the oak barrels, where it must age a minimum of two years. Other crafted spirits include Vodka and Rum. I requested they plant some Agave, as I am certain they could make some fine Tequila.
After the tour and tasting, the Bed and Breakfast seemed like a perfect place for a nap before dinner. There are five elegant guest rooms with antique beds and a private porch. The beautiful restaurant is also located in the building and the menu is full of special choices. My steak melted in my mouth and the bananas foster dessert was worthy of New Orleans. When you check in you are asked to choose your breakfast from several offerings. I chose The Kiepersol Eggs Benedict which was served with breakfast potatoes and filet mignon!
The winery, the B&B, and the restaurant were exceptional treats. A perfect getaway became a short but memorable adventure. The long journeys are fun, but sometimes in our own backyard, we can rejuvenate and replenish our vitality. In twenty-four hours I felt refreshed and full of peace. A good day, wouldn’t you say?