In the late November of 2024, I had the rare opportunity to embark on a wine tasting adventure across the Texas Hill Country with Dr. Erika Szymanki, renowned author of *From Terrain to Brain: Forays into the Many Sciences of Wine*. My involvement with a sustainability initiative that encompasses several Texas wineries made this excursion not only possible but exciting as well. With a year of collaborative knowledge and dedication to elevating the region’s wine reputation, it was imperative to showcase the distinctive qualities of Texas wines. Yet, with limited time at my disposal, the path to selecting just a few wineries from the plethora available proved challenging.
The Texas Hill Country is known for its diverse wine offerings, but for our journey, I recognized that focusing on the Highway 290 corridor in the Stonewall, Hye, and Johnson City areas would highlight some of the best these regions have to offer. While I would have loved to explore more wineries, we ultimately concentrated our attention on three reputable stops: William Chris Vineyards, Ab Astris Winery, and Siboney Cellars.
Our first stop, William Chris Vineyards, epitomized the best of what Texas wine has to offer. The moment we stepped onto the property, it was clear that this was more than just a winery; it was a passion project anchored in commitment to quality. Engaging conversations flowed with both Kelsey Kramer, the Director of Education, and Chris Brundrett, the Co-founder and Winemaker. They presented us with a delightful selection of 100% Texas wines, showcasing the landscape’s rich terroir.
As a knowledgeable outsider in the wine industry, Dr. Szymanki’s reactions were illuminating. William Chris has set a high bar for Texas wines, skillfully balancing flavor and authenticity. More than just a tasting, the experience at William Chris was about understanding the story behind the bottles—a key element in appreciating the craftsmanship involved in winemaking. Their dedication to sustainability further emphasized what I aimed to accomplish throughout this tour: highlighting the intersection of quality and thoughtful practices.
Following our enriching experience at William Chris, we proceeded to Ab Astris Winery. Here, we were greeted not only by inviting scenery but also by Mike Nelson, who provided insights that were both intelligent and engaging. The Fiano, a less familiar grape variety, stole the show with its remarkably crisp and lemony notes, offering a refreshing contrast to our previous selections.
At Ab Astris, the understanding of local terroir became apparent, as Mike’s passion for the craft translated into every sip of wine we tasted. What was particularly appealing was the atmosphere on the patio, where we enjoyed our tasting amid scenic views that evoked a sense of tranquility. The culinary experience was equally impressive, showcasing how pairings can elevate the wine tasting journey.
Our final destination—Siboney Cellars—marked the culmination of our delightful tour. The “Twilight Tasting” offered a magical setting filled with warmth and elegance, making it apparent why this winery stands out in the region. We were graciously welcomed by winemaker Barbara Lecuona, who provided a peek behind the scenes into their production area, emphasizing the careful attention dedicated to crafting their wines.
Miguel Lecuona’s engaging and attentive service ensured that we experienced the full breadth of what Siboney offers. As we savored unique culinary creations paired with expertly crafted wines, it was evident that this winery is committed to not only hospitality but also creating memorable experiences. Siboney Cellars serves as a model of how a winery can merge community spirit with high-quality winemaking.
Throughout my journey with Dr. Szymanki, it became evident that the Texas wine landscape is rich and varied, offering much more than what many perceive at first glance. With many clusters of vineyards producing a plethora of grape varieties, those unfamiliar with the Texas wine scene should approach it with an open mind and a thirst for discovery. Educational resources like Texas Wine Growers and the Texas Wine Lover app can serve as invaluable guides for newcomers.
As the Texas wine industry has flourished—valued at over $20 billion in 2022—winemakers have risen to the occasion, striving for excellence while maintaining their unique regional identity. This journey through the Hill Country reaffirmed my belief that anyone with an interest in wine should venture into Texas vineyards. The commitment to quality and sustainability paves the way for an evolving wine culture that deserves recognition—and I can already tell, this is just the beginning of an exciting vinous adventure.