The Texas Hill Country has become a top destination for wine aficionados thanks to its stunning vistas and delicious varietals. Take a drive on U.S. 290 to discover your new favorite bottle at one of our picks for the best Hill Country wineries.
LessThis small, family-owned venture was established in 2018 and has quickly become one of the most acclaimed operations in the region. In addition to pouring tasty vintages, the winery is beloved for its live music events and bottle release parties. After a trip to their tasting room, you’ll want to join their wine club, which offers different levels of membership with perks, discounts and special limited-production wines.
William Chris Vineyards started when William "Bill" Blackmon and Chris Brundrett partnered to create high-quality wines that showcase the best of Texas’ grape-growing regions. Passionate and community-driven winemakers, the William Chris team uses Old-World techniques to fill their bottles, which are all inscribed with the message, “We are pleased to share a piece of our world.”
Nestled in the heart of the Hill Country, Signor Vineyards invites locals and tourists alike to experience their 200 acres of vines and gardens, as well as a beautiful tasting room and shopping at Joanna’s Market. The boutique winery is owned and run by the Signor family, which has deep roots in Texas farming. Try the Pinot Gris for a light, fruity sip or open a bottle of the 2020 Rochambeau for a bold bend of red varietals.
One of the most prominent wineries in Texas, Messina Hof now has four locations across the state. Their Hill Country destination sits on nearly 10 acres in the ever-popular town of Fredericksburg. For the full experience, book a stay at The Manor Haus B&B, where guests can enjoy an intimate getaway on the Messina Hof property, located within walking distance of many nearby attractions.
With stunning views and a gorgeous two-story tasting room, Augusta Vin is a feast for the eyes and a treat for your taste buds. Enjoy a standard tasting of five wines for just $25, or take part in a winery tour, in which visitors see the progression of wine-making, from the crush pad to the barrel-aging process.
First launched as 4.0 Cellars, Texas Wine Collective has changed its name and evolved into a group of dedicated industry leaders from different vineyards sharing their passions. The collective is home to Brennan Vineyards, Lost Oak Winery and McPherson Cellars. Thanks to its multiple winemakers, Texas Wine Collective’s tasting experience includes varieties that change frequently, making it a perfect place to return to time and time again.
Grapes grown exclusively in the Hill Country contribute to the delicious and decadent wine made by the team at Pontotoc. Their wines, which come from hand-picked grapes, are poured at their weingarten in downtown Fredericksburg, a convivial and casual environment. Owned by a fifth-generation farming family, Pontotoc’s specialty is Spanish-style wines. We recommend their 2019 Estate Tempranillo — a medium-bodied red that delivers notes of sour cherry, plum and toasted oak.
Duchman Family Winery was founded in 2004 by Drs. Lisa and Stan Duchman. The proprietors wanted to bring fine wine to Texas and have successfully done so with the help of winemaker Dave Reilly. Every wine is worth a try, but we particularly recommend the 2018 Montepulciano, which offers hints of blackberry, cherry and plum, and pairs well with savory bites. Plus, the gorgeous winery is also a wedding venue!
The oldest winery on Highway 290, Grape Creek Vineyards produces more than 700,000 bottles of wine per year and sells directly to consumers. Their Wine Club is highly recommended, with members enjoying access to exclusive wines, discounts and benefits. Winemaker Jason Englert has worked at Grape Creek for nearly two decades, earning a myriad of medals and high scores from wine competitions over the years.
Guests are invited to explore 56 acres of vineyards, a 10,000-square foot production facility, a stunning lavender field and so much more at the picturesque Becker Vineyards. The scenery will draw you in, but the wine is still the main attraction. Go for a glass of their Chardonnay Reserve, which shows hints of Meyer lemon, tropical fruit and toasted vanilla.