Flat Creek Estate (Part 2)
by
Terry Sullivan
Summary: In Italy while traveling through Tuscany we observed many agriturismo signs dotting the landscape. The agritourism movement in the United States is increasing and wineries in the Texas Hill Country are turning to this movement. Flat Creek is poised to be an agritourism destination. With beautiful views of vineyard vistas, great wines and wonderful bistro and a lodging facility, Flat Creek offers visitors an agritourism experience.
The Bistro
The Bistro features lunches created by Chef Sean Fulford. The restaurant is also the site for winemaker’s dinners. We had several appetizers created and they were inspiring. Rick and Madelyn Naber, proprietors of Flat Creek Estate, furnished the bistro with a fireplace, brown leather sofas and a mural of the Tuscan countryside. There is a tasting counter on one side of the room with stone arches and winemaking pictures on the wall. A high ceiling creates an open air environment. The architecture and design give you the feeling of a Tuscan villa.
We had several appetizers since we were interested in light fare. The pate duo consisted of chicken liver mousseline and country pork terrine with traditional accompaniments. The accompaniments included olives and slices of French bread. The chicken liver was topped with carmalized onions and the pork terrine was topped with tomatoes. The 2007 Pinot Grigio paired well with each of the appetizers. Our next appetizer was the gambas "pil pil" that included sautéed prawns with white wine, garlic, paprika, and lemon. The presentation was wonderful. Chef Scott brought a pea soup that he created. It had a lime green color and a slight sweetness to the fresh pea flavor.
The Bistro is open Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays from 12:00 noon to 5:00 pm. The area is also used for events during the evening.
Vintner’s Quarters
Lodging onsite helps to enhance your agritourism experience. Flat Creek has one guest quarters available for visitors. While the outside of the building is plain, the inside is spacious and extremely well appointed. Complete with a full kitchen and a winding staircase to a second floor bedroom, the visitor’s quarters offers the perfect home away from home feeling. Outside the visitor’s quarters a patio offers a quiet spot with views of the creek and vineyards planted on a gentle sloping area.
There are plans for additional lodging facilities on the property in the future.
While visiting Flat Creek Estate, try the delectable food in the Bistro and spend the evening.
Read Flat Creek Estate Part 1
Flat Creek Estate
24912 Singleton Bend East
Marble Falls, Texas 78654
GPS: N30º 28.875’ W98º 02.681’
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