5 Texas Wines to Enjoy in Hill Country

Wine has long been a beloved beverage all over the world, with different regions producing their own distinct varietals that bloom to flavorful life thanks to their climate and surroundings. It is a staple for celebrations and special occasions, a welcome companion after a long day and a gift that is sure to please even the pickiest recipient. Nestled deep in the heart of Hill Country, these Texas wineries proffer wines that carry their own distinctive flavors and notes. One of the oldest wine-growing regions in the U.S., Texas has a long history with the popular beverage. Just in time for the holidays—in case you need some universally-pleasing gift ideas—we will explore some of the best wineries the Lone Star State has to offer.

A tradition in the making since the 17th century

Though California gets a lot of attention for its wines, Texas was actually the first area in the U.S. to harvest wine. Franciscan monks planted vines near what is now El Paso to make sacramental wine for the Eucharist. Prohibition put a damper on Texas wine production until the 1970s, when the Llano Estacado and Pheasant Ridge wineries were founded. However, many areas of Texas are still affected by Prohibition, with dry laws in effect for a quarter of Texas’ 254 counties.

Though there are several parts of Texas in which wine is produced, the Texas Hill Country provides a sunny and dry climate that produces delicious varietals. The area was voted one of the top 10 wine destinations by Wine Enthusiast Magazine in 2014.

Becker Vineyards

Established in 1992, Becker Vineyards produces flavorful reds and whites, many of which have won prestigious awards. Beautiful fields of lavender surround this picturesque winery, making it an ideal spot for tours and tastings. Go for a romantic outing or schedule a group tour to sample six of their best wines. Better yet, you get to bring home a souvenir Riedel wine glass with your purchase. If you fall in love with the wine, you can join their Wine Club, which allows you to enjoy quarterly shipments with no long-term obligation and access to premium VIP perks.

Duchman Family Winery

Known as one of the most beautiful wineries in Texas, Duchman Family Winery pride themselves on their use of 100% Texas grapes to produce 100% Texas wines. Inspired by a love of Italian grape varietals, this family-owned business works with viticultural consultant Bobby Cox and growers in the Texas High Plains AVA to produce grapes that allow their winemakers to pay homage to their favorite types of wine. Visit their tasting room to get a true Italian countryside experience as you sip six varietals of wines and stroll through the gorgeous winery.

Fall Creek Vineyards

The family behind Fall Creek Vineyards set out to make world-class wine that could stand head-to-head with award-winning global varietals, and their vision has come to fruition. Their passion shines through in their flavorful wines. They strive to match the right grape variety with the right terroir, and "to grow wines which reflect the complex soils of each specific site." With an impressive wine list, they are able to showcase the thoughtful craft they put into each kind. Visit their Wine Country Inn for a Hill Country getaway like no other.

Grape Creek Cellars

With over 200 medals awarded to their delicious wines, Grape Creek Cellars is proving they are a strong player on the Texas wine scene. You are sure to find something you love among their collection, which includes varietals from reds and whites to rosés and sweet wines. After taking a leisurely tour and tasting, dine in their Tuscan-inspired Trattoria that overlooks the vineyards and enjoy delectable entrees, appetizers and stone-baked pizzas.

Pedernales Cellars

When you visit the Pedernales Cellars website, a smiling, happy family greets you. This is the heart and soul of this winery, which planted its roots in the early 1990s with some of the other Texas wine pioneers. In 2005, the children of the pioneers developed the concept for a boutique winery focused on handcrafted wines made from varietals that thrive in the Hill Country region. Not only are they proud of their amazing wines, they are also committed to producing them in a sustainable manner. Keeping with this tradition, the winery offers Pedernales Vineyard to Table salsas and sauces and oils by The Spicewood Food Company in their tasting room.

The next time you venture out to Texas Hill Country, make plans to visit some of the excellent area wineries. Enjoy a glass for us!