Texas Wine Country
Barons Creek Vineyards

But First
Coffee!

Our crew always loves to try specialty, local coffee shops anywhere we travel and this trip, was no different. We started our 2nd morning in Texas Wine Country, with a quick stop at the Johnson City Coffee Co.
Newly opened in 2019, this sweet coffee shop is walk-up window, or drive-thru only! Johnson City Coffee Co. was named Best Coffee in Texas by Food & Wine magazine in 2019. I highly recommend “Gus’s GoTo”. It features a shot of espresso (regular or decaf), mixed with cold brew coffee, hazelnut, and “creamy sweet chocolate milk”, mixed together and served over ice.

Vineyard Hopping
in
Texas Wine Country

Ok, now I know I said coffee first – but the real rule is safety first!
Fredericksburg has numerous options for “private drivers” or “wine tours” but I can PROMISE YOU, none are as exceptional as Vineyard Hopping Texas.

Brian, or as he is affectionately known, Redneck Brian, is the absolute best guide I have ever experienced. And I’ve toured from coast-to-coast and abroad!

$50 an hour secures you a DESIGNATED DRIVER, but Brian at Vineyard Hopping Texas is so much more than that. When we were at Barons Creek Vineyards, we were served our charcuterie board WITHOUT napkins. Not to sweat, Brian ran to his truck and in seconds, he had a napkin for each of us. When we needed water between the wine, Brian provided ice cold water bottles. When we needed advice on where to eat, head to next, or what wineries are “must stop” vs. ok to miss – Brian never steered us wrong.

Brian was engaging, entertaining, and attentive. He made a point to take pictures of our experience and shared them when the day was done.
Brian picks you up at your hotel/Airbnb and drives you safely around all the vineyards you want to see. He waits on-site the entire time you’re enjoying the vineyard, but Brian was so fun to be around, we welcomed him to sit with us at every stop.
He also has a fun list of “complimentary” shooters, shots and mini bottles in case you need a pick-me-up or wine isn’t your thing!
So make sure you book Brian at Vineyard Hopping Texas for your next trip to Fredericksburg and be sure to tip my guy – he absolutely deserves it!!

Barons Creek Vineyards
Texas Wine Country

Our first stop in Fredericksburg, was at Barons Creek Vineyards. We started on what we call “the far end” and drove back towards our Airbnb stopping at wineries along the way.

Make sure you check online to make reservations before you arrive for your first trip to Texas Wine Country. Even before Covid, reservations were required at many vineyards. So be sure to book ahead of time, this will also help maximize your day!

Our reservation started at 11:30 and we were greeted by John. Sitting outside we enjoyed the crisp morning air and cool overcast skies. For $25 per person, Barons Creek offers 2 different tasting paths, Reds or Mixed.

I opted for the mixed list so I could try a few different varieties.

Pairings

I love that the wine tasting, comes with individual menus that highlight the notes, flavors and pairings for each wine. We ordered a charcuterie board to really enjoy every flavor!

2019 Sauvignon Blanc

My tasting started with Barons Creek Vineyards 2019 Sauvignon Blanc paired with cheddar cheese. To quote my host John, the flavors are of pear and grapefruit with a hint of lemon zest and lime.
This Sauvignon Blanc was light and flavorful!

2017 Chardonnay

My second tasting was Barons Creek Vineyards smooth and buttery 2017 Chardonnay with Manchego Cheese. My mom is always on the hunt for a butter chardonnay – and this is the most perfect, buttery one I have ever tried.
Barons Creek calls this “sunlight held together by water” with flavors from pineapple and graham crackers, melted butter and brown sugar with hint of lemon.
Needless to say, this one came home with me!

2019 Rose

The third taste on my Barons Creek flight, is their award winning 2019 Rose served with Cranberry Chevre!
This wine boasts pineapple, watermelon, and banana are on the forefront. Meanwhile, strawberries and cranberries pull up the rear. I definitely could taste the banana in this one, but it wasn’t as overwhelming as some banana notes can be. Just like the two above, another smooth wine!

2017 Velvet

2017 Velvet served with Muenster Cheese for the 4th pairing, and the first red in my flight.
This wine was surprisingly smooth and honestly delicious. The name definitely does it justice!

This blend of Malbec and Cabernet Franc has notes of black cherry and violets with plums and bell peppers layered in. I regret not bringing a bottle of this home, and might just have one shipped to enjoy this fall!

2018 Texas Merlot

Lastly, my flight ended with this warm 2018 Merlot paired with chocolate covered espresso beans! Notes of blueberry, blackberry and black cherry are instantly noticeable. Not as smooth as the Velvet, but still a very smooth sip to the very last drop!

Barons Creek Notes

Needless to say, we absolutely enjoyed ourselves at Barons Creek Vineyards!

We all bought several bottles, and like I said above, I am already kicking myself for the bottles I left behind.
Wine tasting is such a personalized experience, even in a group setting. But what I love the most, is that you can always find something you love, if you just keep trying!

– Barons Creek Vineyards is great for groups and event hosts weddings
– Villas available on-site to rent for your stay
– Friendly flights for both red lovers and non-red fanatics
– Modern yet tuscan vibe transporting you far away from rural Texas

Now onto some place a little more silly but a whole lot of fun!