October in the Lone Star State means cooler weather might finally be on the way, and Texas Wine Month is here! If you’re looking for a spot to raise a glass and take in those Hill Country views, we’ve rounded up six wineries to add to your list. Plus, many of them are participating in the Texas Hill Country Wineries Texas Wine Month Passport (October 1–31), which gives you access to exclusive discounts and complimentary tastings. Get additional details here.
Ab Astris Winery
Stonewall
Ab Astris is a family-owned and operated winery with a 12-acre vineyard, making 100% Texas wines right onsite, including an array of whites, reds, and rosés. Wine tastings are $30 per person and available year-round (please note: they’re closed Tuesdays and Wednesdays). On October 18, the winery is hosting Sip & Smoke, a barbecue and wine event. Tickets include eight specially made BBQ bites and sides, each paired with a libation.
Becker Vineyards
Fredericksburg
Becker Vineyards has been making wine for more than 30 years, using only Texas-grown grapes. Their wines have even been served at the White House! There’s plenty happening all October long, including a Riedel Wine Glass Tasting, Paint and Sip with Catherine Maina Artwork, live music on the weekends, and the Flower Fields at Sunset Dinner. Whether you’re after a casual tasting, a guided tour, or something more exclusive, there’s something for everyone.
Heath Sparkling Wines
Fredericksburg
According to their website, Heath Sparkling Wines is the first winery in Texas devoted entirely to sparkling wine. Every bottle is made in Fredericksburg using méthode champenoise, the same traditional process used for Champagne, and every step happens right here in the Lone Star State. Stop by and enjoy a paired tasting (hosted down the road at Invention Vineyards, $40 per person) or a winery tour that takes you behind the scenes ($45 per person). Open daily from 11 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Reservations are suggested,but walk-ins are welcome.
Messina Hof Winery
Fredericksburg
With seven generations of winemaking in the family, Messina Hof works with approximately 700 acres of vineyards across Texas. Their flagship location in Bryan/College Station opened in 1977, and today you’ll also find them in Fredericksburg, Grapevine, and Richmond. With more than 70 wines to try, there’s something for every taste, from multiple styles to award-winning varietals, all made from Texas-grown grapes. Browse the list of October events here.
Pedernales Cellars
Stonewall
Pedernales Cellars is run by a sixth-generation Texas family who make wines from 100% Texas fruit, all using sustainable practices. Their Estate Tasting Room sits on 145 acres of oak-shaded land with views of the Pedernales River Valley, and it’s open seven days a week. You can take a cellar tour, try a Tempranillo tasting, bring a big group, and more. And if you’re visiting in October, there’s live music and other events happening throughout the month.
William Chris Vineyards
Hye
What started as a friendship between two Hill Country winemakers grew into the partnership behind William Chris Vineyards. According to their website, they “championed new labeling legislation here in Texas so wine lovers could know, with confidence, what truly makes a Texas wine Texan: grown here, crafted here, and reflective of the land we call home.” Pick from a variety of tasting experiences, and be sure to grab a bite at the Farmhouse Bistro while you’re there.
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