CMT Lifestyles Blog

Kix Brooks is Proud of the Winery He’s Built

Posted: January 21st, 2008 at 11:00 am  |  By: Deb Barnes  

Kix Brooks wineryIt’s understandable if wine isn’t the first thing that comes to mind when you think of Kix Brooks. After all, as half of the record-breaking country duo Brooks & Dunn, Brooks’ name has become almost synonymous with honky-tonks and everything that goes with them (including a certain popular beverage that isn’t wine).

Nonetheless, Brooks will soon be making a name for himself in a very different world. On February 3, the country star will officially launch his latest business venture, Arrington Vineyards, a winery located on 75 acres in the town of Arrington, Tenn., about 30 minutes south of Nashville. They currently offer 12 different wines, including Stags’ White (described as a medium bodied dry white), Desert Rose (a dry rosé), Red Fox Red (a red blend) and Raspberry (a sweet fruit wine).

“Being from Louisiana, I’ve been drinking for a long time,” Brooks joked to Nashville Wine Press. “But there is a difference between drinking wine and appreciating wine. By the time I had kids, drinking became less of a party and more of an appreciation. I’m still far from a connoisseur, but it’s enjoyable to hang out with people who are and can help you appreciate nuances. Wine is like golf in that you can always get better at it over time, but never really know all the answers.”

Brooks cites country stars Tim McGraw, Faith Hill and Martina McBride as fellow wine buffs, and Aaron Tippin, who makes his own Muscadine variety. But Brooks is the first one to take his appreciation to this level, partnering with winemakers Fred Mindermann and Kip Summers to start his own wine business. “Right now, I am doing more listening than I am talking,” Brooks continued. “One thing we are hoping to do is have a few concerts out at the vineyard and make it a great experience for people. As I learn more about the winemaking process, I’ll feel better equipped to talk about it.”

The February 3 kick-off party for Arrington Vineyards will coincide with the Super Bowl kickoff. Held at the Blue Smoke Restaurant and Jazz Standard in New York City, the event will include football viewing, wine tasting, barbecue and entertainment. Proceeds benefit the TJ Martell Foundation.

Categories: Food
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Reader Comments

  • Winer says:

    Posted: January 22nd, 2008 at 11:24 am  

    I love this vineyard. I went a few weeks ago and the wine is great, atmosphere is good, and they have great events…jazz on the courtyard and bonfires on Sat. and Sun. this winter! Everyone should go…yeah for Kix!

  • Deborah Allen says:

    Posted: February 1st, 2008 at 11:50 am  

    I would like to buy some of Kix’s wine. Is there a website available to purchase any? Thank you

  • Sally Dalton says:

    Posted: April 10th, 2008 at 7:51 pm  

    I would love to buy some of his wine. Is there a website
    or distributor where I can get more information on purchasing.

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