If Texas had a Bordeaux-like list of first growth vineyards, Neal Newsom’s Texas High Plains appellation property would be listed as Superior First Growth. He sells to dozens of wineries all over the state, most of which make the grapes into uniformly superior wines (see tasting notes below).

Newsom is also active in helping the state’s farmers and winemakers create better wines and be more profitable. He is the current President of the Texas Wine and Grape Growers Association, a very active and influential trade group. He’s also the sponsor of the annual Newsom Grape Day, an opportunity for growers to learn the latest ways to improve their crops from some of the best scientific minds in the industry as well as a chance to see masses of new farm equipment in one place.

A lanky Texan, Newsom is prone to drawling and understatement. He’s also slow to make pronouncements, so when one pops out, you pay attention. More than a few popped out in my recent interview with him.