Texas Wine: A Budding Industry

When it comes to varietals, Texas is shifting from growing grapes that fit the fad to growing grapes that fit the landscape. Some varietals smitten with the climate include: Montepulciano, Tempranillo, Sangiovese and Albarino. For those who enjoy a glass of Pinot Noir or Chardonnay, Texas offers a few wines to match. For a Chardonnay, try a Viognier, and for a Pinot Noir, try a Cinsault.

Throughout the year, visitors can taste Texas wine at these six area wineries: McPherson Cellars, Llano Estacado Winery, Trilogy Cellars, CapRock Winery, Pheasant Ridge Winery and La Diosa Cellars. Each tasting room offers guests a distinct experience and insight into the largest viticulture area in the state.

Also, it’s not uncommon for Lubbock to celebrate the industry with a festival, or five. Llano Estacado Winery, the first winery in Texas to open after Prohibition, hosts Grape Day, Wine & Chocolate Fantasia, Wine & Clay Festival and Salsa & Sangria Fest. The area also celebrates the fruits of its labor at Lubbock Uncorked with local wineries and wineries from across the Lone Star State.

A true hidden gem, Texas wine is budding, and visitors are raising a glass to the High Plains.