With the vibrant Texas Hill Country as a backdrop, the opportunity to take Dr. Erika Szymanki, the acclaimed author of *From Terrain to Brain: Forays into the Many Sciences of Wine*, on a tour of the local wineries was an exhilarating proposition. Having spent over a year collaborating with various winery entities on sustainability initiatives, I was eager to showcase the unique wine culture and biodiversity flourishing in this region. Although the initial excitement of sharing my favorite wine destinations was abundant, the reality of time constraints set in—resulting in difficult decisions about which locations to include in our itinerary.
After careful consideration, I chose to focus our visits on the Stonewall, Hye, and Johnson City sectors along Highway 290. This decision ultimately led us to three remarkable wineries: William Chris Vineyards, Ab Astris Winery, and Siboney Cellars. Each winery presented an opportunity to delve into the world of Texas wines and appreciate the nuances that set them apart.
Our first destination, William Chris Vineyards, provided an enlightening experience right from the outset. Engaging with Kelsey Kramer, the Director of Education, alongside Co-Founder and Winemaker Chris Brundrett, was a highlight of our visit. Their passion for crafting high-quality Texas wines was palpable, and we were delighted with the selection they poured for us—exclusively featuring 100% Texas wines that exemplified the region’s capabilities.
In this discourse on sustainability and quality, William Chris epitomizes what it means to produce outstanding wines while honoring the terroir. The educational conversations with their team highlighted the commitment to both environmental stewardship and the enhancement of product quality. For wine enthusiasts and novices alike, visiting William Chris Vineyards lays a solid foundation for understanding Texas wine culture and its evolution.
Following our insightful tour at William Chris, we made our way to Ab Astris Winery, renowned for its stunning vistas and dedicated craftsmanship. Speaking with Mike Nelson as he guided us through an impressive selection of wines was a treat. The highlight, undoubtedly, was the Fiano—a varietal that remains relatively obscure yet flourished in the Texas climate, producing an impeccably refreshing white wine that invigorated our palates.
The atmosphere at Ab Astris embodies the spirit of hospitality intertwined with a commitment to excellence. Whether you’re a seasoned wine lover or a curious first-timer, the experience at Ab Astris promises great wines crafted by a knowledgeable team, set against a backdrop of stunning natural beauty. It was a reminder of the incredible potential of Texas grapes and the ingenuity of local winemakers.
To cap off our day, we visited Siboney Cellars for their celebrated “Twilight Tasting.” This experience is famed not only for its inviting ambiance but also for the unmatched hospitality that makes every visitor feel special. Barbara Lecuona, the winemaker, graciously allowed us a glimpse into their production space, while Miguel Lecuona ensured our tasting experience was both memorable and delectable.
At Siboney, the interplay of beautifully crafted wines and thoughtful culinary pairings creates an elevated sense of enjoyment. From start to finish, they incorporate a level of service and care that is often overlooked in the industry. Enjoying the evening at Siboney was a fitting conclusion to a day dedicated to exploring the wealth Texas wine has to offer.
As conversations about Texas wine often emerge, I find myself frequently recommending various wineries, emphasizing that there are countless hidden gems to uncover beyond my personal favorites. Newcomers to Texas wine should approach their exploration with an open mind, a sense of curiosity, and a willingness to experience less familiar grape varieties.
As the Texas wine industry continues to evolve—recently valued at $20 billion in 2022—there’s an evident migration toward quality production, ensuring that consumers are met with exceptional wines. Resources such as Texas Wine Growers and the Texas Wine Lover website can significantly aid those embarking on this journey. For those wanting to delve deeper into the practices and attributes of Texas terroir, the academic piece “Texas in Transition: Considering the Production of Grapes, Wine, and Place” offers substantial insight.
Ultimately, the mission is simple: to enjoy authentic Texas wines while celebrating the region’s innovation, dedication, and diversity in viticulture. If you’ve yet to immerse yourself in the Texas wine experience, now is an opportune time to pour a glass and explore the fascinating world of Texas wine.
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