When people think of American wine, California usually comes to mind. But in recent years, Texas wine country has risen as one of the most exciting destinations for wine lovers. With over 500 wineries across the state, Texas now ranks as the fifth-largest wine-producing state in the U.S. The crown jewel is the Texas Hill Country AVA, the second most-visited wine region in America after Napa Valley. Add in the Texas High Plains vineyards, where most of the grapes are grown, and you’ll quickly see why Texas wines are winning attention around the world.
Texas will always hold a special place in my heart. I spent my late teenage years in Houston, where I finished high school and started college, and those years gave me a deep appreciation for the state’s culture, hospitality, and larger-than-life spirit. Coming back now to explore the wineries feels like reconnecting with an old friend—one that has grown, evolved, and found its own voice in the world of wine.
This Texas wine travel guide will help you explore the best wineries, grapes, and itineraries for your next trip.
Day 1 – Arrival & Fredericksburg Charm
Begin your journey by flying into Austin-Bergstrom International Airport or San Antonio International Airport. Both cities are just over an hour’s drive from Fredericksburg, the heart of the Texas Hill Country wine region. Once settled into a cozy B&B, set out along Highway 290, famously called “Wine Road 290.” Stop at Becker Vineyards, known for its award-winning Viognier and stunning lavender fields, then continue to Grape Creek Vineyards, a Tuscan-style estate producing bold Tempranillo and Cabernet Sauvignon. Wrap up the evening at Otto’s German Bistro, where local Texas wines pair beautifully with German-inspired cuisine.
Day 2 – Hill Country Wine Tours & Tastings
Start your day at Pedernales Cellars, where sweeping vineyard views meet Spanish-inspired varietals like Tempranillo and Garnacha. Next, head to William Chris Vineyards, one of the most celebrated Texas wineries, with a tasting program focused on expressing true Texas terroir. Enjoy lunch at Hye Market Deli, then continue to Signor Vineyards or Lost Draw Cellars for Rhône-style wines and elegant tasting experiences. In the evening, savour a meal at Cabernet Grill, known as the go-to restaurant for Texas wine and food pairings.
Day 3 – Beyond the Tasting Room
Begin with a sunrise hike at Enchanted Rock State Natural Area, a breathtaking pink granite dome. Afterwards, visit Bending Branch Winery, nicknamed the “Tannat House of Texas,” showcasing the state’s ability to produce bold reds. For lunch, enjoy a picnic under the oaks with local cheeses and a bottle of Texas rosé. End your wine tour with visits to Fall Creek Vineyards or Spicewood Vineyards before heading back to Austin or San Antonio.
Texas Wine Travel Tips
The best times to visit are spring (wildflowers in bloom) and fall (harvest season). Summers can be hot, but air-conditioned tasting rooms keep things comfortable. A car is essential, though Fredericksburg offers wine shuttles and private drivers for safe tasting. Popular grapes to look for include Texas Tempranillo, Viognier, Mourvèdre, and refreshing Texas rosés.
Spotlight on the Texas High Plains AVA
While the Hill Country is the hub for visitors, the Texas High Plains vineyards around Lubbock produce nearly 80% of the state’s grapes. Thanks to high elevation (3,000–4,000 feet), cool nights, and limestone soils, this region grows some of Texas’ best Tempranillo, Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Sangiovese, and Viognier. Unlike the Hill Country, the High Plains is more about grape growing than tourism, but visitors can explore wineries like McPherson Cellars in Lubbock to see where much of Texas wine begins.
Final Sip
Whether you’re sipping Viognier at a Hill Country tasting room or sampling bold reds from the High Plains, Texas wine country offers a unique blend of tradition, innovation, and southern hospitality. With scenic vineyards, award-winning wines, and welcoming wineries, it’s no wonder Texas is quickly becoming a must-visit destination for wine lovers. If you’re planning your next wine getaway, put Texas Hill Country wineries and Texas High Plains vineyards at the top of your list. You will discover wines as bold and unforgettable as the Lone Star State itself.
