During the past two decades, the state has produced its own batch of award-winning wineries. In 2007, the Orbitz Food & Wine Index revealed that Central Texas is ranked #2 among the nation’s fastest growing wine-producing regions.
The largest cluster of these vintners can be found on Highway 290 along the 30-mile stretch that runs between Fredericksburg and Johnson City. This road is the common vine between the nine wineries that have formed an association known as Wine Road 290. According to Ken Maxwell of Torre di Pietra Vineyards, which is located midway along the trail, each winery offers both the oenophile and the weekend wanderer a unique experience.
As you travel Wine Road 290, expect to find great wines and a vintage adventure at the following participating vineyards:

Chisholm Trail Winery
This stop offers a taste of Texana with labels such as High Noon Chenin Blanc, Ghost Rider White Merlot, Chisholm Trail Red and Jack Ass Blush. With quarter horses and Longhorn cattle roaming the Chisholm Trail acreage and Spring Creek bubbling nearby, the Old West atmosphere is made complete. www.chisholmtrailwinery.com

Fredericksburg Winery
You’ll receive a big Wilkommnen! from the Switzer family, which opened the business in 1983. Located in the heart of Fredericksburg, the winery has been named by U.S.A. Today as one of the top three wineries in Texas. The actual wine production is done on site and tours and tastings are available. www.fbgwinery.com

Rancho Ponte Vineyard
Just a hop, skip and jump off 290 on Hwy 1376, you’ll find this unique winery—the region’s newest. This small family-run operation likes to produce what it refers to as “unorthodox blends,” with various flavors hinting at grapefruit, peach, pear, lemon, melon, blackberry, raspberry and more. This is definitely the stop for the adventure-loving palate! www.ranchoponte.com

Grape Creek Vineyard
Resting atop a scenic hillside, this picturesque winery has it all—a large tasting room with award-winning wines, an Italian picnic market, a furnished event center, plus a bed and breakfast. The best part? A restful patio underneath huge live oaks with a fantastic view of the Hill Country. The picture-perfect, romantic setting to relax and enjoy a glass of wine! www.grapecreek.com

Torre di Pietra Vineyards
This establishment has all the charm of a small Mediterranean winery, but its roots are deep in the heart of Texas. Owned by the Maxwell family, it continues their 100-year-old tradition of winemaking. The premises feature a covered outdoor piazza that can host an event for 150 in any kind of weather, along with a covered porch and courtyard. The gift shop has personality and offers truly unique items, including wine-infused chocolate. www.texashillcountrywine.com

Becker Vineyards
Becker Vineyards has been featured in Food & Wine Magazine and in Bon Appetit. The winery is located in a 19th-century-style German stone barn surrounded by wildflowers, peach orchards, and lavender. The tasting room features a spectacular antique bar made of long leaf red pine where respected Becker Vineyard varie-ties can be sampled. Step back in time while leisurely touring the history-filled grounds, or stay in the adjoining bed and breakfast, a renovated log cabin with a history all its own. www.beckervineyards.com

Woodrose Winery
No stuffy feel here. The goal is to make guests feel welcome. This winery offers relaxed restaurant-style seating that spills onto a tree-lined wooden deck. No waiting at the bar. You’ll be seated and your wine-tasting options will be brought to you. Learn about wines in this friendly, non-threatening environment! Woodrose Winery has been featured in Living magazine and in Texas Cooking and Wine. www.woodrosewinery.com

Pedernales Cellars
A little over a mile off Hwy 290, this winery has a tucked away, quiet and secluded feel with a relaxing view of the valley located below Gingerbread Hill. You can call ahead to schedule private guided tours of the estate, the winery, and its underground cellar. No appointment is needed to visit the tasting room or to enjoy the grounds. www.pedernalescellars.com

Texas Hills Vineyard
Talk about environmentally friendly! The grapes grown here are cultivated through a method known as sustainable organics, while the winery and tasting room have been built into the Texas soil through a process called ‘ramming.’ The end result is an above-ground ‘cave’ that babies the wine to perfection! This winery’s Syrah has been ranked “excellent” in an online article by Time magazine listing 50 great American wines. You’ll also want to try their Kick Butt Cabernet! www.texashillsvineyard.com