“Hear Ye – Hear Ye”, good people of Texas, there’s a movement in the wine industry where Texas is getting recognized as a top region destination of the world. Yes, indeed, the world! And leading the charge, a white knight with sword drawn named William Chris Vineyards.
William Chris Vineyards, founded in 2008 with its first release, was a vision of two men, William “Bill” Blackmon and Chris Brundrett. Bill came from farming and vineyard development, whereas Chris was a derivative of winemaking and marketing. Together they have amassed an intricate network of prized vineyard sites and slowly fine-tuned perfection from grape to glass.
Chris Brundett, co-founder of William Chris, states about the winery’s vision, “Texas wine has hit an inflection point. We’ve passed the conversation of ‘can we?’ and squarely (landed) into ‘this is who we are.’ The opportunity right now is to build something tasting-rooted in our land, our people and within the hospitality culture that’s distinctly Texan but respected everywhere.”
Fast forward to present day with Texas having over 15,000 acres of established vineyards, and a never-ending onslaught of new vintners (450+) trying to make their mark in the industry. Texas wineries have finally found success with major wine publications showcasing high praise.
This praise and recognition reflect true Texas grit. Texans are proud, and through the efforts of many, vineyards have matured, precision winemaking standards have excelled and warm Texas hospitality shines. It’s perfecta, proving that hard work and determination create success.
To double down on all the press chatter, a sommelier’s mission might be to explore the ever-expanding arena of Texas Hill Country wineries. Having tried over 100 Texas wines in the last month, Texans should be proud of current releases and the quality found around the state.
But hold up, it gets even better. Texas wine bandwidth is expanding around the US and can be found on retail and restaurant wine lists outside of Texas, a true mark that sommeliers are brilliantly uplifting the efforts of Texas.
Back to William Chris Vineyard, the Hye-based winery, located just off US Highway 290, reflects an exquisite open-air design with an array of tasting spaces overlooking a unique Texas courtyard setting. Once there, one is surrounded by trees and vineyards for an ideal ambiance. Inside, guests discover clever private parlors that sing in Texas heritage, married with professional staff well-versed in sommelier training.
Wines at William Chris Vineyards are 100% Texas and they are a long-standing ambassador of that fact. Wonderfully, their efforts reflect true Texas flavor versus many of the competitors who blend in California grapes. This vinos icon is proving against all odds that Texas deserves attention around the world. A feat that makes wine enthusiasts want to check their pulse in disbelief. This sommelier suggests, “Snag some William Chris Vineyard stat.”
When visiting William Chris, consider educational tasting flights. By-the-glass options and bottles are available, and they also offer exceptional on-site experiences paired with food and wine. Wine club memberships are offered and recommended as a sommelier. Children and pets are welcome on their property.
Hours of operation:
Thursday through Saturday – 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Sunday through Wednesday – 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.
William Chris Vineyards is located at 10352 US-290, Hye, TX 78635
Call 830-998-7654 for reservations. The William Chris Vineyard tasting room and property features a historic Hill Country Home, an elegant event space, beautiful sunset views of the vineyard and a 400-year-old Oak Tree grove with picnic table seating. Live music is featured on weekends and a complete calendar of events can be found at williamchriswines.com.
Andre Boada is a sommelier & founder of VinoCadre.
Sommelier pick:
2025 San Antonio Stock Show & Rodeo Double Gold – Top of Class – William Chris Vineyard 2022 Cabernet Franc, Dell Valley, Texas, $65.
Saddle up, folks! This unbridled, run-for-the-roses Texas thoroughbred is racy and expressive, showcasing unique Dell Valley characteristics. It won me over during my judging at San Antonio Rodeo - International and exceeded all my expectations regarding my crush on the Cabernet Franc varietal. I’m talking full "Fatal Attraction" style crush, bordering on manic. You may need counseling if you get your hands on this one.