Wines, Bites & Brews in Southeast Texas

It should come as no surprise that California is typically top of mind when it comes to wine regions in the U.S. However, surprisingly, Texas - Opens a dialog is one destination that should be on your list for wine tours. Throughout Southeast Texas’ Brazos Valley, along the Bluebonnet Wine Trail, not only will you experience expansive vineyards and flavorful wines, but you will find that the culinary scene of this region is impressive. And within this wine-focused region, you will also find other delicious beverages that aren’t wine-focused. Please read on for some recommendations which you should consider for your visit to Southeast Texas.

Washington County (Brenham, Burton, Chappell Hill & Washington)

Well-positioned between Houston and Austin - Opens a dialog , Saddlehorn Winery sits on a 390-acre ranch where their Blanc du Bois and Black Spanish grapes are grown. These grapes are responsible for Saddlehorn’s signature estate wines which have won numerous awards. About a 20-minute drive from Saddlehorn Winery is Texas Star Winery in Chappell Hill (which is adjacent to the birthplace of the Texas state flag). Texas Star prides itself with its flavorful wines which include traditional grape wines, as well as wines emanating from Blueberries, Cranberries and Prickly Pears. Another 20-minute drive will bring you to the very modern and impressive Chapelton Vineyards and Winery. Situated on 75 acres, Chapelton’s most popular varietals include Blanc du Bois, Tempranillo and Merlot which originate at this pristine winery. While you’re visiting the Chapelton’s winery for a tasting be sure to experience the serene views of the vineyard from the balcony.

When it comes to food, Washington County doesn’t disappoint. This gem of a foodie destination is home to Mescalito Coffee in Downtown Brenham which specializes in upmarket coffees beverages (Pro Tip: Order the Cold Brew Mocha, It’s extremely smooth and bursting with flavor). After starting your day with a delightful coffee from Mescalito while taking a walking tour of Downtown Brenham, head to Blue Willow Cafe in Burton for a meal that is nothing short of spectacular! The farm-to-table mission is very apparent in all of Chef Tammy Mills’ creations. Hopefully when you visit, the Bread Pudding with Bourbon Sauce will be on the menu. It is life changingly delicious! A visit to HSF Biergarten (HSF = Home Sweet Farm) for Julia Hatfield’s Wine 101 experience is where you can be a local and experience wine appreciation and dinner in a unique way! Wines sourced from around the US are paired with dinner courses from participating local food trucks. And a wonderful way to end your evening right is with a nightcap at Floyd’s Wine Lounge in Downtown Brenham. Husband-and-wife duo, Pete and Jenn Simpson have created a space that is all about relaxation and appreciation for the finer things in life. Specially curated wines, beers, and nibbles are available for your enjoyment in this casual, yet sophisticated, wine lounge.

Grimes County (Navasota)

Threshold Vineyards was once a Christmas tree farm that was home to acres of Virginia pine trees, and is now a prolific vineyard. The family behind Threshold Vineyards recognized that its rich soil was ideal for grapes and decided to explore creating wines. The result: A flavorful Blanc Du Bois varietal which has put them on the map! Sophisticated farm-to-table cuisine is the focus of Rail Rye in the Railroad District of Downtown Navasota. While this local favorite specializes in innovative American cuisine, you shouldn’t miss out on its beer on tap and craft cocktail offerings (their Old Fashioneds are particularly popular). Just a couple of doors down is Red Board Tavern & Table which prepares "gourmet casual" American cuisine with an elegant flair. Classic Rock Coffee Co. is a hybrid establishment that combines all of the following within one space: Record store, a music store, a coffee shop, and a rock museum. With electric guitars on the walls, records for sale in the back (aka the Navasota Blues Alley), warm pastries in the display case, and freshly roasted coffee beans, it’s a blend of everything you could ever want.

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