Looking at the High Plains of Texas is Lubbock, which may not boast the size of Houston, Dallas, or Austin, yet stands as the 11th largest city in the Lone Star State. Apart from being the birthplace of rock ’n’ roll icon Buddy Holly and the renowned Texas Tech University, Lubbock also hosts top-rated wineries. The balmy climate of the Texas High Plains is ideal for grape cultivation, with more than 80% of Texas wine grapes being grown in this area. Here are three must-visit wineries in Lubbock:
McPherson Cellars, a James Beard semi-finalist, is celebrated for its distinctive winemaking approach. Winemaker Kim McPherson crafts a dry white Viognier named ‘The Queen’, which is a white wine fermented with its golden skins, a method typically reserved for red wines. This wine can be found on the wine menus of establishments like the Queen’s English in Washington, D.C., and Nicolett in Lubbock. McPherson Cellars also produces wines from grape varieties like Picpoul Blanc and Cinsault.
Many of the award-winning wines from McPherson Cellars are created using grapes from the Sagmor vineyard. The winery collaborates with different cultivators to fashion their acclaimed wines.
You can partake in tours and tastings at McPherson Cellars from Tuesday to Saturday between 12 to 7 p.m.
Llano Estacado, one of Texas’ oldest and largest high-quality wineries, has been crafting wines since 1976. Winemaker Jason Centanni produces a diverse range of varietals, and their wines have been featured at White House dinners for both Presidents George H. W. Bush and George W. Bush.
Llano Estacado offers wine tastings and tours, giving guests the chance to savor their award-winning wines and explore their production premises. Tastings are open from Tuesday to Saturday starting from 12 to 5 p.m., with special happy hour deals from 2 to 4 p.m. on Tuesday to Friday. Sunday hours are 1 to 5 p.m.
English Newsom Cellars is among the rare wineries in the vicinity that cultivate their own Estate grapes, granting them complete authority over the winemaking operation. The winery nurtures distinct grape varieties such as Picardan and Sagrantino, yielding wines that have earned praise from judges on both the national and international fronts.
Tastings at English Newsom Cellars are accessible from Tuesday to Friday at 1 p.m., with extended hours until 9 p.m. on Wednesday, Friday, and Saturday. The cost for tasting is $15 per individual for (5) two-ounce servings of white, rosé, and red wines.
When you venture to Lubbock, Texas, make sure not to overlook the chance to visit these welcoming High Plains wineries. They don’t just offer an opportunity to relish award-winning wines but also grant a peek into the art of winemaking and the personalities driving the city’s wine culture.
