Long known for viticulture, did you know the Texas hill country has become a burgeoning home to other spirits as well? From bourbon to craft brews, you can now taste even more of the hill country! 
While Johnson City represents the center of the Texas Wine Trail and the start to the 290 Wine Trail headed West, it's also home to Hahne Estates Winery,  Texas Hills Vineyard and Cheers The Wine Room. 
  • One of my favorite new additions to town is 290 Vinery, a family owned and operated tasting room just off Hwy 290. The open air floor plan is adorned with gallery quality fine art and a selection of over 100 different brands and varietals for tastings or by the bottle. 
  • Wine with a view? Lewis Wines, located just outside of town and in route to Fredericksburg offers tastings overlooking their vineyards with a fantastic view of rolling hills and neighboring ranches. Their 2017 Rosé Mourvèdre was named one of the Top 10 Rosés by Texas Monthly. 
  • I know you're headed to Fredericksburg next... so be sure to visit the OG of the Texas Hill Country wineries, an established award-winning winery for over 25 years, Becker Vineyards.  Picturesque lawn, lavender & seasonal flowers, even a reserve wine library...need I say more? 
Time for a Beer? Texas Craft Breweries are bubbling up a variety of brews for every palette!
  • Located on the downtown courthouse square, is family-owned and operated treat called, Pecan Street Brewery.  With over 30+ artisan brews created since 2011, the best way to try the rotating menu is a flight of 8, 4oz tastings. Did I mention the brews compliment their menu of brick-oven pizzas, fresh salads, burgers and unique southern dishes...don't miss out on this local favorite! 
  • What does a former construction equipment rental business and micro brewed root beer have in common? Tapz 32. This eccentric repurposed building once served construction equipment rentals now serves 21 Craft Beers, 2 Ciders, 9 Wines, all on Tap. 32 Bottled Beers, Wine by the Bottle, Micro Brewed Root Beer, Cream Soda & Ginger Ale! A local watering hole. 
For the final treat in your odyssey West is my personal favorite, Hye Market. Located in the historic post office of the smallest, most charming little village you ever did see...Hye, Texas. Stop in for all kinds of surprises... from pop-up tastings with newly discovered Texas brands, live music accompanied by craft beers and Texas-only wines and a game of checkers over lunch with their locally sourced produce and meats on the menu. (Ok, I lied) One last favorite is, Garrison Brothers the first and oldest legal whiskey distillery in Texas. I'm determined to show up on my horse one day for a free tasting....#forreal.

As you can see, there's plenty of choices for distilleries, tasting rooms, breweries and more on the winding farm to market backroads of the Texas Hill Country.  While I share all these great sips & stops, I also advocate safe driving and recommend a responsible, sober driver or one of many tour companies, like:  https://www.johnsoncityshuttle.com/ or https://www.281winetours.com/