Your guide to Texas Hill Country wineries, restaurants, and more...
Welcome to the Texas Hill Country, and specifically, the vibrant wine region surrounding Fredericksburg and Highway 290! This area is the perfect place to begin your Texas wine journey. You'll discover stunning scenery, friendly hospitality, and a diverse array of wines showcasing the unique terroir of the region. It’s more accessible than Napa, and it’s close to great German food!
The 290 Wine Road is dotted with wineries offering everything from classic varietals to innovative blends, often crafted with 100% Texas grapes. Whether you're a seasoned wine enthusiast or just beginning to explore the world of wine, you'll find something to love here. This guide highlights five exceptional wineries that are especially welcoming and enjoyable for first-time visitors, giving you a taste of the best the Hill Country has to offer.
1. William Chris Vineyards
This is a cornerstone of the Texas wine industry. They are committed to using 100% Texas-grown fruit and crafting wines that reflect the state's unique terroir. The atmosphere is welcoming and unpretentious, making it a fantastic place for newcomers to learn about Texas wine, and they always have something special happening. Chris Brundrett is the co-founder and winemaker.
2. Calais Winery
Calais Winery offers a distinctly different experience. As a first-time visitor, you'll appreciate the commitment to Old World winemaking techniques, reminiscent of a small, family-run winery in France. Winemaker Benjamin Calais is passionate and produces high-quality wines with a French influence, often in small batches, creating an intimate and educational tasting experience.
3. Siboney Cellars
For a taste of something truly unique, visit Siboney Cellars. Winemaker Barbara Lecuona focuses on crafting exceptional wines with a focus on their unique Estate grown grapes as well as single varietal wines from around the state. Siboney Cellars is named after the national love song of Cuba composed by Miguel Lecuona's famous uncle, Ernesto Lecuona. With a beautiful tasting room that is dog friendly, it is a relaxing experience with friendly staff.
4. Untamed Wine Estates
This spot offers a unique take, often exploring different varietals and styles, and they're known for their amazing pizzas which pair perfectly with their adventurous wines. It's a place to discover something new and, well, a bit untamed in the best way possible!
5. Narrow Path Winery and Vineyard
Known for their small-batch, handcrafted wines and beautiful vineyard views, Narrow Path offers an intimate and relaxing tasting experience. It's a great place to enjoy quality Texas wines away from the bigger crowds.
After a day of tastin', you're gonna need some sustenance! The Hill Country is packed with mighty fine places to eat, from fancy-pants dining to stick-to-your-ribs comfort food. It was tough to narrow it down, but these are a few of my go-to spots that never disappoint.
1. Vaudeville Bistro
If you're looking for somethin' a little special, maybe a fancy date night, Vaudeville is the place. Located downstairs in a gorgeous historic building on Main Street, their food is as pretty as a peach. It's a New American-style bistro with a sophisticated but comfortable vibe, and they've got a great wine list to boot. It's more than a restaurant; it's a whole experience with a showroom and art gallery upstairs.
2. Bryan’s on 290
Located right on the wine road in Johnson City, Bryan's is the perfect stop for an upscale meal after a day of wine tasting. They serve incredible contemporary American food with a focus on seasonal ingredients. The dining room is elegant, and the plate presentation is always top-notch. It’s a real gem that brings fine dining to the heart of the Hill Country.
3. Hill Country Herb Garden
For a truly unique and charming experience, you have to visit this spot. Tucked away just off Main Street in Fredericksburg, it feels like a tranquil escape. The restaurant is set within beautiful, lush gardens, creating a peaceful atmosphere that’s hard to beat. They use fresh, often garden-sourced ingredients, and their dishes are both healthy and delicious. It's the perfect spot for a relaxing lunch or a romantic dinner.
4. Alla Campagna
When you get a hankerin' for some real-deal Italian food, Alla Campagna will make you feel like you're in the old country. This cozy spot in Fredericksburg has a wonderfully rustic, intimate setting. They serve up classic Italian dishes, homemade pastas, and wood-fired pizzas that are simply out of this world. It's a warm, inviting place perfect for a family meal or a comforting night out.
5. Los Tios
Sometimes you just need some good ol' Tex-Mex that’ll stick to your ribs, and Los Tios delivers. This is a local favorite in Fredericksburg for a reason. It's a casual, no-frills spot serving up all the classics like enchiladas, fajitas, and some mighty fine margaritas. It's a fun, lively place to unwind and enjoy some comfort food after a long day.
If you're lookin' to bring the fine dining experience right to your rental or home without liftin' a finger, a private chef is the way to go. These folks are true artists and will cook you a meal you won't soon forget.
1. Chef Leo Aguirre (Eat Fredericksburg Texas)
Beau's absolute favorite is Chef Leo. This fella is a true professional who brings the entire fine dining experience to you. He focuses on high-quality, local Texas ingredients and crafts some of the most creative and memorable meals you'll have in the Hill Country. He's not just making dinner; he's creating an event.
2. Chef Ashley Odom (Feast and Merriment)
Another fantastic choice is Chef Ashley Odom, known for her incredible creativity and elegant presentations. Her food is art on a plate. She and her team are masters at sourcing the best ingredients and building a custom menu that is perfect for a special occasion, from a romantic dinner for two to a sophisticated group gathering.
3. Chef Asa Thornton (Vivere Catering)
And, you can't go wrong with Chef Asa Thornton. If you're planning an event for a larger group—think a family reunion, bachelorette party, or corporate retreat—he is your man. He provides a truly professional and delicious in-home experience, making any gathering feel effortless and special.
What's a Hill Country evening without some good tunes? There's always someone pickin' a guitar and gettin' folks' toes tappin' around here. While many wineries and restaurants have music, these spots are legendary for it.
1. Hondo's on Main
Named after the legendary Hondo Crouch, the guy who made Luckenbach famous, Hondo's is a Fredericksburg institution right on Main Street. It's a no-fuss spot where you order at the counter and find a seat on their sprawling, tree-covered patio. With live music just about every night, it's the perfect place to grab a burger and a cold one and soak in the casual Hill Country vibes.
2. Luckenbach Texas
You can't talk about Texas music without mentioning the legendary Luckenbach, just a short hop from Fredericksburg. Made famous by Waylon Jennings and Willie Nelson, this place is more a state of mind than a town. With its rustic dance hall and general store, you can catch amazing pickin' circles under the old oak trees or see a ticketed show from a Texas music legend. Remember their motto: "Everybody's Somebody in Luckenbach."
3. Albert Ice House & Dance Hall
For a true-blue, old-timer Texas dance hall experience, you gotta take the short drive out to Albert. Under the shade of some giant oak trees, the Albert Ice House has been serving up cold beer and live music for generations. It ain't fancy, but it's the real deal. If you want to do some two-steppin' on a wooden floor that holds decades of stories, this is your spot.
Short on time but big on taste? No problem! You can still get a wonderful sip of the Hill Country. I'd suggest pickin' two, maybe three, wineries close together on Wine Road 290. Start with a classic like William Chris Vineyards for a solid Texas wine education, then maybe hop over to a spot with a different vibe, like the elegant Heath Sparkling Wines for some bubbly, or the charming Signor Vineyards for a beautiful setting. Remember to book ahead!
Alright, if you're lookin' to really soak it all in, a two-day adventure is the way to go! Day one could be all about Fredericksburg and the eastern part of Wine Road 290, hitting spots like William Chris Vineyards and maybe Untamed Wine Estates, with dinner at Vaudeville Bistro. Day two, head west towards Hye, visit Garrison Brothers Distillery (if you're into bourbon), then explore wineries like Calais Winery and Ab Astris, finishing with a delicious meal at Hye Thai. You'll need a good nap and maybe a designated driver for this one, partner!
Howdy, y'all brides-to-be and your trusty crews! The Hill Country is a fantastic spot for a memorable celebration. Think a fun tasting at Heath Sparkling Wines (everyone loves bubbles!), followed by a relaxed group lunch at a spot with a great patio like Hill & Vine. Maybe some shopping on Main Street in Fredericksburg, and then a lively dinner. For a unique experience, consider a private tasting or a place with beautiful grounds for photos like Signor Vineyards. Just remember to book everything well in advance, especially for a bigger group – you don't want your chaps in a twist!
The Hill Country is beautiful year-round, but Spring (March-May) with the wildflowers is just spectacular, though it can get busy. Fall (October-November) offers pleasant weather and harvest season at the wineries. Winters are mild, and summers... well, summers are Texas hot, y'all! But even then, wineries have AC and there's always a cool glass of rosé. Each season has its charm and unique events, like bluebonnet season in spring or peach season in summer around Stonewall and Gillespie County.
Listen up, because this here's important! More and more wineries, especially the popular ones and those on the 290 Wine Road, either require or strongly recommend reservations for tastings, particularly on weekends. Places like William Chris Vineyards or Heath Sparkling Wines often book up. It saves you a heap of trouble to check their websites or call ahead. Don't get caught out – a little planning means more sippin' and less waitin'!
Sure, the wine is fantastic, but there's more to the Hill Country! If you need a break from the vineyards, here are a few must-do experiences that truly capture the spirit of the region.
1. Garrison Brothers Distillery
If you're a fan of bourbon, you owe it to yourself to visit the home of real Texas bourbon in Hye. Garrison Brothers was the first legal bourbon distillery in Texas, and their tours are fantastic. You'll learn how they make their award-winning spirits from local corn and Hill Country rainwater, and you can't beat the smell of the aging barrels in the barn.
2. Enchanted Rock State Natural Area
You can't miss this massive pink granite dome rising out of the landscape. Hiking to the top of Enchanted Rock is a Texas rite of passage, offering breathtaking 360-degree views of the Hill Country. It's a great spot for hiking, stargazing, and picnicking. A word of advice, Partner: this place is popular, so be sure to book a park pass online well in advance, especially on weekends.
3. The LBJ Ranch & Johnson City
Take a drive through Johnson City to soak in some incredible Texas history. This is the hometown of our 36th President, Lyndon B. Johnson. You can visit the Lyndon B. Johnson National Historical Park, which includes his boyhood home and the famous "Texas White House" ranch. The town square itself is also full of charm, with quaint shops and restaurants.
4. Stonewall Peaches
If you're visiting between May and August, you're in for a real treat. Stonewall is the peach capital of Texas, and the roadside fruit stands along Highway 290 are overflowing with the sweetest peaches you'll ever taste. Don't leave without trying some homemade peach ice cream or a fresh-baked peach cobbler. It's a true taste of a Texas summer.
The Hill Country is always buzzin' with somethin' fun, no matter the season. While you should always check local calendars for exact dates, these are some of the big annual events you won't want to miss.
1. Oktoberfest
Puttin' the 'German' back in Gillespie County, Oktoberfest is a full-blown party celebrating Fredericksburg's heritage, usually held the first weekend in October. You'll find folks in lederhosen and dirndls, the sound of oompah and polka bands filling the air, and more sausage and German beer than you can shake a stick at. It's a rollicking good time for the whole family, right in the center of town.
2. Fredericksburg Food & Wine Fest
Usually held in late October, this festival is a celebration of all things Texas food and wine. Dozens of Texas wineries and local restaurants gather in downtown Fredericksburg for a weekend of tastings, cooking demonstrations, and live music. It's a must-do for any serious foodie.
3. Stonewall Peach JAMboree & Rodeo
Every June, the tiny town of Stonewall throws a huge party to celebrate its most famous export. This event has everything a small-town Texas festival should have: a parade, a rodeo, live music, a baking contest, and the crowning of the Peach Queen. And of course, there's every kind of peach-based food you can imagine.
4. Fredericksburg Christmas & Holiday Season
There's no place more magical during the holidays than Fredericksburg. The town draws on its German heritage for a month-long "Weihnachten" celebration. You'll see the unique, hand-carved German Christmas Pyramid and the magnificent community Christmas tree in the Marktplatz, along with lights all down Main Street. It feels like stepping into a classic Christmas card.
If you found Beau's recommendation helpful, throw a lil' tip in his tip jar.