Owner and President | @SpicewoodVineyards | SpicewoodVineyards.com
Great wine begins with grit, family, and warm hospitality. Those values run deep at Spicewood Vineyards, and no one represents them better than Owner and President Ron Yates. Since taking ownership in 2007, Ron has led the winery with a focus on craftsmanship, strong community ties, and a clear commitment to quality.
What drives your standards for excellence and hospitality?
I have always been motivated by pushing the boundaries of wine quality in Texas. We have strived to improve the quality of our wine every single harvest since we started 17 years ago. I really enjoy the struggle that comes with growing grapes and making great wine, but I also enjoy people. Creating a space where our neighbors can come relax and spend time with friends and family has been a real point of pride for us, and in order to accomplish that, our hospitality has to be impeccable.
How does the vineyard reflect your community?
We are very laid back and comfortable here at Spicewood Vineyards. We want you to feel at home and relaxed while you enjoy our wine, and I believe we have done a great job of that. I also really value the reaction when people realize how serious our wines are in contrast to the casual environment.
What’s new this season?
We had some great events this past spring and early summer, and one highlight was the release of our first estate-grown Grenache rosé in June, celebrated with live music and fresh ceviche. You can learn more about our upcoming events on our website, SpicewoodVineyards.com.
What has been most rewarding for you?
The most rewarding part of owning and running Spicewood Vineyards for me has been seeing the actual culmination of hard work. I love how each year starts new in the spring, and it’s never the same from year to year. There is a long, difficult struggle just to get to harvest with great fruit, and at that point, you are only halfway there. Now comes the winemaking side of things, which has its own difficulties. It's great to watch people spend time with friends and loved ones over a glass of wine that represents years of our hard work. That, and the fact I get to do it all with my family and good friends along for the ride.