The 27-Year Legacy of Kiepersol: South African Roots to Texas Wine | Episode 85
Texas Under VineSeptember 16, 202601:37:43

The 27-Year Legacy of Kiepersol: South African Roots to Texas Wine | Episode 85

In Episode 85 of Texas Under Vine, Wine Guide Scott ventures outside his normal stomping grounds to East Texas to explore the deeply inspiring legacy of Kiepersol. We sit down with owner and winemaker Marnelle Durrett to trace the roots of this incredible family endeavor, which began nearly three decades ago when her family immigrated from South Africa. Marnelle shares how their unwavering commitment to a strict no-debt philosophy has fueled their growth and resilience, as well as the story behind their unique pivot to wine grapes as a way to craft non-perishable value from a perishable crop.

Beyond their viticultural success, this episode dives into how Kiepersol has evolved into a full-scale destination for hospitality and craftsmanship. We explore the meaning behind their name—derived as a phonetic prayer to "keep us all"—and discuss their on-site distillery, premier steakhouse restaurant, and relaxing vineyard accommodations. Marnelle also highlights their winemaking philosophy centered on comfort and approachability, along with innovative moves like planting Pierce's disease-resistant "Walker varieties." Stick around for the end of the episode to hear about our Wine Wanderer bottle of the week!

*Kiepersol* (https://www.kiepersol.com/)

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⏳ *Video Timestamps*
00:00:00 – Sponsor Message: 12 Fires Winery and Vineyard
00:01:08 – Texas Wine Lover App Announcement
00:03:48 – Introduction to Texas Under Vine Podcast
00:04:43 – Welcome to Episode 85 & East Texas Journey
00:05:35 – Upcoming Texas Wine Events (Texas Wine Jam & Fredericksburg Food and Wine Festival)
00:07:07 – Teaser: Wine Wander Library Bottle
00:07:27 – Introduction to Kiepersol Winery and Winemaker Marnelle Durrett
00:12:16 – Interview Begins with Marnelle Durrett at Kiepersol Winery
00:13:13 – History of Kiepersol & Debt-Free Farming Approach
00:17:36 – Learning Winemaking in Napa Valley
00:21:09 – The Location, Vineyards, and History of the Property
00:22:40 – The Story Behind the Name "Kiepersol"
00:26:08 – Grape Varietals Planted & Navigating Pierce's Disease 00:30:20 – 100% Estate-Grown Texas Fruit & Vertical Tastings
00:32:42 – Iron Ore Clay Soils and Managing Vine Stress
00:37:20 – Winemaking Philosophy & Reducing Bitterness
00:42:02 – Winemaking Challenges and Rewards in Texas
00:43:40 – Favorite Varietals & Exploring Australian Shiraz
00:46:47 – Overview of Kiepersol’s Wines and Stylistic Blends
00:51:07 – The Heartwarming Story Behind "Barrel Number 33"
01:01:09 – The History of Kiepersol Distillery & Local Blue Law Shifts
01:09:02 – Creating Vodka, Bourbon, Rum, and In-House Liqueurs
01:17:00 – What to Expect During a Wine Tasting Experience
01:19:00 – Food Offerings: Paninis, Charcuterie, and Gourmet Grilled Cheese
01:21:02 – Best Times to Visit & November "Lighting of the Wine" Event
01:23:20 – The Fine Dining Steakhouse & On-Site Lodging (The Inn)
01:24:55 – Kiepersol Wine Club Overview
01:26:13 – Retail Distribution, Website Sales, and Final Thoughts
TexasWine, #Kiepersol, #EastTexasWine, TexasUnderVine, #WinePodcast,