Texas Toasts Its Growing Wine Legacy During Texas Wine Month

In a spirited celebration, Texas is embracing October as Texas Wine Month, marking the conclusion of a robust harvest season. Experts highlight that this year's yield has resulted in grapes of “outstanding quality” throughout the state's growing array of vineyards.

The celebration unfolds against the backdrop of Texas's rising prominence in the wine industry, now featuring eight federally recognized American Viticultural Areas (AVAs). These regions, distinguished by their unique soils, climates, and terrains, play a crucial role in defining the character of the wines crafted within their boundaries. 

State officials and growers highlight that this year's harvest exemplifies the increasing sophistication and potential of the industry.

Among Texas's eight established AVAs, Bell Mountain stands out as the pioneer, having received its designation in 1986. Meanwhile, the expansive Texas Hill Country AVA ranks as the third-largest in the United States, encompassing over 9 million acres. Located west of Lubbock, the Texas High Plains AVA stands out as a significant contributor to the state's grape production, accounting for over 80%. This region enjoys advantages such as high elevation and cooler temperatures at night, which play a crucial role in its viticulture success. Among the well-known areas are Fredericksburg in the Texas Hill Country, Texoma, the Texas Davis Mountains, Escondido Valley, and Mesilla Valley near El Paso, which is recognized as the site of America’s first vineyard.

Currently, six new AVAs are in the pipeline, with three already advancing through the federal approval process. Among those being evaluated are Llano Uplift, Hickory Sands, and Hidden Waters—regions celebrated for their granite-rich soils, elevated terrains, and unique climates that are poised to enrich the state's wine-growing landscape. Three more regions—the Pedernales River Basin, Brazos River, and Rio Grande—are currently in the advanced stages of planning.

In the Rio Grande region, the hybrid grape Blanc du Bois stands out, known for its crisp white profile. Harvesters typically harvest this varietal as early as June and often bottle it by August. 

According to industry experts, the growth of official AVA designations is set to enhance the reputation of Texas wines, drawing increased investment and boosting tourism in the region.

The U.S. Treasury Department's Alcohol and Tobacco Tax and Trade Bureau certifies AVAs. These classifications enable producers to pinpoint the primary regions where a wine's grapes are cultivated, similar to the regional labeling systems found in France, Italy, and Spain.