The Wine Sisterhood team recently headed down to Texas for two big events: Around the World in 80 Sips Austin and Houston. They took their time between events and didn’t miss the opportunity to explore Texas wine country.
What they discovered were some exciting hidden treasures and not-to-miss eating and drinking establishments. If you’ve got 24 hours (or more) to spend in Texas Wine Country, here’s where we recommend stopping:
In and around Austin
Noble Sandwich Company – our favorite “destination” sandwich joint. Gotta try the Smoked Duck Pastrami Rueben, the Red Chile Braised Pork Cheek Sandwich and the Jalapeño Slaw. Next time we’re in town, we’re ordering the Fried Bologna Sandwich.
Friends and Neighbors – the coolest little vintage shop ever, featuring carefully curated vintage wear for ladies and kids, unique jewelry made by local artists, AND a coffee bar with tasty little treats and local wines and brews.
Pleasant Storage Company – tasty craft cocktail and rum bar. Named after a popular 1940s Havana joint, the menu features rum punch, rum-centric cocktails and Caribbean-inspired street food. Recommendations: the Chicharron de Pollo (rum-spiced chicken skin), Fried Conch Hush Puppies and Empanadas.
Texas Hill Country/Wine Country
Cooper’s Old Time Pit Bar-b-que – where “It’s all about the meat.” Here, meat is not priced by the serving, but by the pound. Order your meat outdoors and sides inside, then dig into your order on long picnic tables with shared condiments including extra-thin sliced white bread, squirtable margarine, hot sauce and a giant tub of jalapeños.
Becker Vineyards – one of the most well-known wineries of the region, featured in Wine Spectator and Food and Wine Magazine. Their Rhone-style wines hit the spot.
Grape Creek Vineyards – aka. “Tuscany in Texas.” This estate has won over 100 medals from San Francisco to New York. Our favorites were the Cabernet/Syrah and “Bellissimo” a Super-Tuscan style wine.
Fredericksburg Herb Farm – relax in charming cottages patterned after the historic Sunday house cottages unique to the area. These quaint cottages have all the amenities of the 21st century — including flat screen HD TV, high speed internet and sleep-in worthy beds.
Headed to Texas soon? Check out the Wine Sisterhood’s “Texas Forever” board for travel ideas.