William Chris Vineyards

Discovering William Chris Vineyards

William Chris Vineyards, nestled in the quaint town of Hye, Texas, offers more than just wine; it provides an authentic Texas wine experience. Founded in 2008 by Bill Blackmon and Chris Brundrett, this vineyard is a testament to their passion for creating wines that truly embody the essence of Texas. With Bill’s extensive experience in vineyard management and Chris’s expertise in horticulture, they have crafted a winery that stands out in the Lone Star State.

Winemaking Philosophy

The philosophy at William Chris Vineyards is straightforward: “”We are pleased to share a piece of our world.”” This belief is evident in every bottle, emphasizing their dedication to producing wines that reflect the unique characteristics of the Texas terroir. By adopting a hands-off approach, they allow the natural flavors of the fruit and the vineyard to shine through.

The Vineyards

As the leading producer of single-vineyard wines in Texas, William Chris Vineyards boasts estate vineyards spread across the state, some of which date back to the 1980s. They have expanded their grape production over the years, focusing on varietals that thrive in Texas’s semi-arid climate, including Rousanne, Orange Muscat, Blanc du Bois, Cabernet Franc, Petite Verdot, Mourvedre, and Carignane.

The Tasting Room

The tasting room at William Chris Vineyards, located in a beautifully restored 1905 Deike farmhouse, offers an intimate setting for wine enthusiasts. Open from 11 AM to 5 PM on Sundays through Wednesdays and from 10 AM to 6 PM on Thursdays through Saturdays, it provides the perfect opportunity to sample some of Texas’s finest wines.

Food and Wine Pairing

For those looking to enhance their wine experience, William Chris Vineyards offers a comprehensive food and wine pairing guide. This resource is ideal for both novices and seasoned wine lovers, ensuring a delightful tasting journey.

Awards and Recognition

William Chris Vineyards has garnered numerous accolades for its outstanding wines. Notably, Chris Brundrett was featured in Wine Enthusiast’s 40 Under 40 list in 2020, and in 2022, the vineyard was named a “World’s Best Vineyard,” marking a significant achievement for Texas wineries.

Visiting William Chris Vineyards

– Location: 10352 US-290, Hye, Texas 78635
– Hours:
– Sundays through Wednesdays: 11 AM to 5 PM
– Thursdays through Saturdays: 10 AM to 6 PM

Tips for Your Visit

Plan Ahead: Check the tasting room hours and schedule your visit accordingly.

Book a Tour: Consider booking a tour to gain insights into the winemaking process and explore the vineyards.

Bring Your Appetite: Use the food and wine pairing guide to elevate your tasting experience.

Take Photos: Capture the beauty of the restored farmhouse and the scenic vineyards.

Visiting William Chris Vineyards is not just about tasting wine; it’s about experiencing the heart of Texas wine culture. With its rich history, dedication to terroir-driven wines, and breathtaking vineyards, it’s a must-visit for any wine lover.