[dropcap color=”color-default” font=”georgia” style=”normal” size=”scmgc-4em”]H[/dropcap]e was dressed in a vintage looking military uniform. He sat inside a phone booth waiting for his sweetheart to ring. Would she or wouldn’t she. All the while he sat, unmoved with a permanent expression plastered on his face. The dandy looking soldier sitting inside the throwback phone booth is a mannequin. He, like other items in this place are relics of things past. A tribute to the 1950’s.

There’s an old spiffy Dr. Pepper machine, a few framed LIFE Magazines and vintage radios that still emit sound. But this is no antique shop. It is Elias Rodriguez’s vision of a winery. It happened in the 80’s. That’s when Elias was bit by the wine bug. While stationed in Europe along the Rhine River he befriended a German winemaker. For four years the good winemaking man took Elias under his wing, showing him the ropes of wine. “I always had the dream of creating my own winery, but I never could afford it,” Elias explained.

The construction business owner never gave up on his vision and on May 18, 2013, Bishop Arts Winery came to fruition. With only 1000 square feet, Elias has found ways to capitalize on his space. Wine is stored all around, from racks to barrels. Though no wine is produced at this location, Bishop Arts Winery has 12 private labels that range in taste. Some of his unique flavors include, Boot Scootin'” Raspberry Pinot Noir, and Granny’s Green Apple. Eventually though, Elias will be blending wines and selling the good stuff straight out of the tank. “Our goal is to have 3 or 4 small stainless still containers where they can taste the wine here,” he said.

The best thing about Bishop Arts Winery is their winery tours. Lucky wine goers pay 25 bucks and are driven to Ivanhoe, Texas where the winery is located. So guys, book your

seat, catch a ride and get a sippage of some Texas wine. TXMB

 

Bishop Arts Winery

838 W Davis St 75208