Perched prominently at Meierstone Vineyards’ entrance is a giant, red ball that evokes curiosity from those who passerby. The ball is a fixture in the family’s history, so much so in fact, that the Wrecking Ball red wine blend wine was conceived to pay homage to the story.
This 5′ diameter ball was made by the winemaker’s grandfather, Albert Meier, in the 1940s and is made of steel. Running through the core is a thick axel that extends outward on either side of the ball. Two very large, long ship anchor chains (each link weighing 100 lbs) were connected to both sides of the ball’s axel. The chains were then attached to separate bulldozers that ran parallel a good distance apart through the pastureland. The ball rolled on the ground in the center, keeping the chains tight and high enough off the ground to catch and pull up any trees, mesquite and other debris in its path – root systems and all.
The main purpose for this ball was to clear Ford Hood Amy Base (renamed to Fort Cavazos) in Kileen, Texas in 1949. This sizeable land clearing project took Albert Meier and his brother-in-law, Percy Neilsen, two years to compete working 6 days a week. Not having use for it afterwards (or perhaps ensuring it wouldn’t be), Mr. Meier mounted it at the farm gate entrance. It has been resting there for the last 70 years.
As a child, Krystal didn’t fully comprehend the use of the ball and affectionately called it a “Wrecking Ball”. The ball underwent a few color changes over the years – from raw steel, to brown, then cream – before settling on the current Farmall red. Krystal made the Wrecking Ball red wine blend to figuratively represent the namesake with the biggest and boldest grapes of the season’s harvest, Tannat and Cabernet Sauvignon.
TASTING NOTES
The Wrecking Ball is a blend of some of Texas’ boldest grapes (Tannat/Cabernet Sauvignon) with notes of intense dark fruit, black cherry, cocoa and baking spices. It is also a story of innovation and resourcefulness. Purchase here.
We couldn’t miss the opportunity to make a parody of the popularized “Wrecking Ball” song when releasing of this wine. Please enjoy the Meierstone Vineyards version below!