Settled in the 1870s by German immigrants, Fredericksburg, Texas is a picturesque town lined with Victorian houses, boutiques, and charming bed and breakfasts. While Texas is most often associated with grilled steaks and luscious barbeque, the Texas Wine Trail has generated a sophisticated buzz that rivals plaudits usually reserved for other locales in California and New York. Not to be ignored, Fredericksburg is one of the fastest growing markets for winemaking. With warm southern days and cool mountain nights, the grapes develop a unique intensity perfectly suited for winemaking. When visiting Fredericksburg, travel the Texas Wine Trail, a shooting star in the Lone Star State.
Tasting the Texas Wine Trail
Comprised of over 27 wineries, visitors can choose from a number of self-guided tours. While many fine vineyards dot the wine region, explore the wares at the following wineries for free tastings:
Alamosa Wine Cellars
- Located between Lampasas and San Saba, Alamosa Wine Cellars specializes in Mediterranean-style wines such as Tempranillo, Syrah, Sangiovese, and Viognier. For specialty wines, try their Texas Port, Texas Sherry, and Orange Muscat. The tasting room showcases antiques from Billings of Nixon Department Store, an establishment run by owner Karen’s parents for 50 years.
Fredericksburg Winery
- Lauded by USA Today as one of the top three winemakers in Texas, Fredericksburg Winery is operated by the Switzer family. They produce an array of whites and reds that range from dry to sweet to late harvest dessert wines, port, and sherry. Located on Main Street, Fredericksburg, the winery is a convenient afternoon stop during a day of sightseeing.
Pillar Bluff Vineyards
- Specializing in French varietals, the Pillar Bluff Vineyard is one of the oldest in Texas. With an intimate Tuscan-style tasting room, gazebo, and fabulous landscape, Pillar Bluff is a true retreat. Their fine wines include estate bottled Chardonnay, Chenin Blanc, Merlot, and Cabernet Sauvignon.
Texas Hills Vineyard
- With sustainability and organic farming in mind, Texas Hills Vineyard has won medals in the Lone Star Wine Competition, Texas Open Wine Competition, and Grand Harvest Awards Wine Competition. Their list of wines includes Italian-styled Pinot Grigio, Sangiovese, Orange Moscato, Syrah, and Cabernet Sauvignon.
Texas Legato Winery
- Located in Lampasas, Texas Legato Winery is a family-run establishment that prides itself on hard work and the ability to create wines that possess smooth notes, or in musical terms: legato. Aged in French and American oak barrels, their wines include Malbec, Cabernet Sauvignon, Chardonnay, and Petit Syrah.
Making your Wine Tour Special
While visiting the Texas Wine Trail, make Fredericksburg your base and enjoy unique attractions of the region, including:
- Hiking to the eroded dome at Enchanted Rock State Park
- Strolling the shops and eateries on Main Street, Fredericksburg
- Reliving the Golden Age of Rock with live music and family entertainment at the Rockbox Theater
- Driving through the scenic beauty of Willow City Loop
- Relaxing in the gardens at Fredericksburg Butterfly Ranch and Habitat
For further information on the Wine Countries of America, read:
- Beyond Napa and Sonoma: Wine Regions of California
- Exploring Virginia’s Wine Country
- Touring the Long Island Wineries
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