The Texas Hill Country wineries span about 15,000 square miles, running from just north of San Antonio halfway to Fort Worth. In terms of size, it’s the second-largest American Viticultural Area (AVA) in the United States. If you’re hoping to discover Hill Country wineries, the sheer size of the area may sound daunting, but if you’re in and around Austin, it couldn’t be easier.
Head to Fredericksburg
Right at the epicenter of the Hill Country vineyards region is Fredericksburg, a small town already well-known for high-end dining destinations. From there, it’s a short drive to discover one of the best vineyards in Texas Hill Country, with more than 50 nearby wineries ready for you to sample their finest offerings.
Though it was approved as an AVA in 1989, the wine-growing history of the region dates back to the 1600s. When German settlers populated the area in the 1800s, sweet white wines and port-style fortified wines became popular, and though this tradition still holds, there are now as many styles of red and white wines as there are wine lovers eager to try them.
Top Wineries in Texas Hill Country
1. Becker Vineyards
This family-run, award-winning winery is among the best wineries in Texas Hill Country, producing a wide range of red and white wines, including cabernet sauvignon, malbec, petit verdot, and more. You’ll find their tasting room on the main street in Fredericksburg, but a visit to their the winery property offers lavender fields, vineyards, and a beautiful tasting room housed in a historic 19th-century stone barn
2. Pedernales Cellars
Specializing in Spanish, Italian, and Rhone-style wines (think juicy reds from tempranillo, dolcetto, and mourvèdre, and rich whites from viognier and vermentino), Pedernales Cellars is 65 miles from Austin and 17 miles from Fredericksburg. With a tasting room on the main street and scenic views of the Pedernales River Valley, it’s a must-visit among the best Hill Country wineries.
3. William Chris Vineyards
Founded in 2008, William Chris wines have become a staple for wine lovers, using 100% Texas-grown grapes to craft their expressive and terroir-driven selections. With whites from roussanne and reds from cinsault, syrah, and cabernet sauvignon, their wines continue to be celebrated. A visit to their tasting room is a must for those seeking the best wineries in Hill Country Texas.
4. Hilmy Cellars
Planted in 2009, Hilmy Cellars
produces hand-crafted wines from 100% Texas-grown grapes, sourced from their estate and various vineyards across the region. Try their reds from tempranillo and mourvèdre or whites from viognier and chenin blanc. Their rosé is also a standout, making Hilmy one of the best Hill Country vineyards.
While these are just a few of our favorite Texas Hill Country wineries, there are many more to discover. Make Fredericksburg your hub and explore the best vineyards in Texas Hill Country from there!
Do you have a favorite Texas Hill Country winery? We’d love to hear about it! Drop by Heritage Office Suites in Georgetown or Round Rock for a tour—and let’s talk wine!
