Llano Estacado’s Mad Ira Dessert Wine Wins Top Honors at Houston Rodeo Wine Competition 2025

Llano Estacado Winery is proud to announce that our Mad Ira dessert wine has been crowned Top Dessert Wine at the 2025 Houston Rodeo Wine Competition! This incredible achievement marks Llano Estacado’s second Houston Rodeo Saddle, further cementing our place among the best Texas wineries.                                   

                                                     

 

What Is the Houston Rodeo Wine Competition?

The Houston Rodeo Wine Competition is one of the largest and most respected wine competitions in the United States. It attracts thousands of entries from around the world, showcasing wines of exceptional quality.

For the Texas wine industry, this competition is a critical platform for spotlighting the growing reputation of Texas wines. Winning at the Houston Rodeo not only recognizes the craftsmanship of local wineries but also positions Texas vineyards on the global stage.

 

Why This Win Matters for Texas Wine and Llano Estacado

Llano Estacado’s Mad Ira dessert wine stands out as a testament to the diversity and quality of Texas wine varietals. By earning the title of Top Dessert Wine, Mad Ira reinforces the excellence found along the Texas wine trails and showcases the expertise of our winemaking team.

This award is a victory for the entire Texas wine industry, highlighting how award-winning Texas wines can compete with the best in the world. For Llano Estacado, this second Houston Rodeo Saddle symbolizes our continued commitment to producing premium wines that celebrate the unique terroir of our state.

 

A Closer Look at Mad Ira: Why You’ll Love It

Mad Ira is more than just an award-winning wine—it’s a quintessential example of Llano Estacado's ability to craft exceptional wines with depth and character. This dessert wine delights with its rich, indulgent flavor profile and impeccable balance of sweetness and complexity.

Tasting Notes:

•     Aroma: Aromas of dried fruit, honey, and toasted nuts set the stage for a memorable sip.
•     Flavor: Layers of ripe figs, caramel, and chocolate blend with hints of warm spice for a luxurious finish.
•     Mouthfeel: Silky smooth with a lingering sweetness that makes every sip unforgettable.

 

Perfect Pairings:

• Pair with rich desserts like chocolate cake or crème brûlée.
• Complement a cheese plate with blue cheese or aged cheddar.
• Enjoy on its own for an indulgent after-dinner treat.

 

A Second Saddle for Llano Estacado

Winning at the Houston Rodeo Wine Competition is no small feat, and earning a second saddle places Llano Estacado Winery among the top Texas wineries. It reflects our dedication to crafting award-winning Texas wines and highlights the skill of our winemaker, Jason Centanni, and our entire team.

 

Celebrate With Us

This incredible milestone is a celebration we share with our loyal customers and supporters of the Texas wine industry. Mad Ira is available now, but only in limited quantities. Don’t miss the opportunity to taste the wine that earned the title of Top Dessert Wine.

 

Whether you’re exploring the Texas High Plains wineries or looking for the perfect addition to your table, Mad Ira is a must-try. Visit our website or stop by Llano Estacado Winery to pick up your bottle today.

 

Cheers to Texas wine and the sweet success of Llano Estacado Winery!