Small Town Texas Wineries
Create your own “Alternative Texas Wine Trail”
The Texas High Plains have long been regarded as our state’s primary grape-growing region. And the stretch of 290 between Johnson City and Fredericksburg, widely known as “Wine Road 290,” has become one of the most popular wine destinations in the United States. In the Texas Hill Country alone, there are over one hundred wineries. And all are worth exploring (I spend most of my free time trying to do so!). All represent the dreams and grueling work and dedication of passionate farmers, winemakers, and artisans. I feel so lucky to live in the Hill Country and to have the opportunity to so readily access this amazing wine community. But while I give lots of love to Texas Hill Country Wineries (see @txwinegirl or “Parks & Recreation: Wine and Hiking in the Hill Country Make a Perfect Pairing”), small town wineries — those off the beaten path — are not to be overlooked.
Today, I want to highlight some of my favorite Texas wineries and vineyards beyond our state’s well-known wine regions and “wine trails.” These are just a few wineries I’ve been fortunate enough to happen upon while on road trips, drives to see family in other parts of the state, and weekend adventures. Spontaneous, “let’s turn in here — that place looks cool!” and “Let’s see what’s down this dirt road!” moments are the ones I can credit for these discoveries. When my eyes are open and I’m fully present, enjoying the scenery as we drive highways and backroads under the big sky, that’s when I notice the signs, signals, and cute curated storefronts that pique my curiosity and draw me in to discover something pleasantly unexpected.
I encourage you to follow your curiosity, too, next time you’re on the road (but please don’t drink and drive!). Enjoy the richness and dynamism of our state as you are welcomed with authentic hospitality, taste delicious and inventive wines, and support our small town neighbors.
Survived the speed limit drop in Giddings on your way to Houston? Take a detour to Saddlehorn Winery, not far from Brenham in Burton.
Follow signs from the highway down a country road and across a charming bridge to Saddlehorn’s beautiful 350-plus acre farm. You’ll immediately recognize their cherry-red barn. On a warm day, sit outside and enjoy their estate-grown Blanc du Bois, which is crisp with gleeful notes of citrus. If you’re up for something bold and totally distinctive, ask to try their luscious and jammy estate-grown Black Spanish wine. As its poured, notice its unique rich hue. The Barn Red, a blend of cabernet sauvignon, syrah, and zinfandel, is a great choice if you’re a fan of easy-sipping, medium-bodied reds
Heading from Austin to San Antonio? Don’t miss Esperanza Winery in Blanco.
Keep your eye out for a cute little bird icon just off of Hwy. 281 in Blanco and pull over to enjoy delectable wines at Esperanza. Taste their Texas Hill Country Tannat, a well-balanced dry red wine with notes of plum. It’s an elegant wine with just enough complexity to keep your tastebuds wanting more. Or, take home a bottle of refreshing sauvignon blanc, featuring the clean, acidic brightness with notes of grapefruit and grassy, herbal aroma characteristic of the varietal.
Esperanza was the first winery established in Blanco, and has the first vineyard established in Spring Branch, where they grow grapes on 5 acres. They currently offer six varietals.
On your way back to Dallas to Austin and want to skip the nightmare that is I-35? Make your way through Hico and stop at Silver Spur winery.
Located in the heart of historic downtown, across from the Billy the Kid Museum, step into the elevated rustic limestone haven that is Silver Spur’s tasting room. This boutique winery features a wide-ranging selection of varietals. Opt for their Viognier, with ripe stone fruit flavors and notes of honeysuckle, or their Bordeaux-style cabernet sauvignon, and you’ll be so glad you ventured here.
Find yourself amidst the towering trees in Magnolia? There’s more to this little town than the Renaissance Fair. Plan to spend some time at Bernhardt Winery in Plantersville.
Offering patio flights, a picnic experience, and a tasting focused on chocolate and wine pairings, Bernhardt knows how to create an atmosphere that is at once romantic and laid-back. Two former Texas school teachers dreamed up this romantic Tuscany-inspired setting for wine-sipping. Sprawl out under shade trees on a hot Texas day and try a refreshing white wine, like their estate grown Blanc du Bois, floral with undertones of honey, or make a reservation in their tasting room and try their Antiquity curated series or award-winning “I Have Zin’d” zinfandel made with 100 percent Texas grapes.
This winery is also a popular wedding venue and frequently hosts live music and artisan markets.
I don’t know about you, but I can’t wait to hit the road this spring! I look forward to adding more stellar small town Texas wineries to this list.
Pro Tip: You won’t regret making your way to these wineries as your destination of choice, allowing yourself time to relax and take in all they have to offer. However, if you’re just passing through or making a pit stop, most wineries don’t mind if you ask for small tastes in order to decide on a bottle to purchase and take with you to your final destination to enjoy!
Please comment and share your experiences and other small town winery discoveries!
