Lubbock, located in the High Plains of Texas, may not be as big as Houston, Dallas, or Austin, but it is the 11th largest city in the Lone Star State. Besides being the birthplace of rock ’n’ roll legend Buddy Holly and Texas Tech University, Lubbock is also home to award-winning wineries. The warm Texas High Plains climate is perfect for growing grapes, with over 80% of Texas wine grape production happening in this region. Here are three wineries in Lubbock that are worth visiting:
The James Beard semi-finalist, McPherson Cellars, is known for its unique winemaking style. Winemaker Kim McPherson makes a dry white Viognier named ‘The Queen’, which is a white wine fermented in its golden skins, a technique usually used for red wines. This wine is featured on the wine lists of restaurants such as the Queen’s English in Washington, D.C., and Nicolett in Lubbock. McPherson Cellars also produces wines made from grapes such as Picpoul Blanc and Cinsault.
Many of McPherson Cellars’ award-winning wines are made from grapes grown at Sagmor vineyard. The winery partners with various growers to create their award-winning wines.
Tours and tastings are available at McPherson Cellars on Tuesday through Saturday from 12 to 7 p.m.
Llano Estacado, one of the oldest and largest premium wineries in Texas, has been making wines since 1976. Winemaker Jason Centanni produces a variety of varietals, and the winery has had the honor of serving their wines at White House dinners for both Presidents George H. W. Bush and George W. Bush.
Llano Estacado offers wine tastings and tours, allowing visitors to sample their award-winning wines and explore their production facilities. Tastings are available from Tuesday through Saturday from 12 to 5 p.m., with happy hour specials on Tuesday through Friday from 2 to 4 p.m. Sunday hours are 1 to 5 p.m.
English Newsom Cellars is one of the few wineries in the region that grow their own Estate grapes, allowing them complete control over the winemaking process. The winery grows unique grape varieties such as Picardan and Sagrantino, producing wines that have received accolades from international and national judges.
Tastings at English Newsom Cellars are available from Tuesday through Friday at 1 p.m., with extended hours until 9 p.m. on Wednesday, Friday, and Saturday. The tasting fee is $15 per person for (5) two-ounce pours of white, rosé, and red wines.
When visiting Lubbock, Texas, don’t miss the opportunity to visit these friendly High Plains wineries. They not only offer a chance to taste award-winning wines but also provide insights into the winemaking process and the people behind the city’s wine scene.
