
William Chris Vineyards: Elevating Texas Wine in the Heart of Hye
What They’re Known For
This winery is best known for its bold commitment to local agriculture and its elegant, expressive wines. Their single-vineyard bottlings and flagship blends reflect a dedication to showcasing Texas terroir at its finest.
- Enchanté – A Bordeaux-style blend with depth, balance, and Hill Country character.
- Petzold Vineyard Mourvèdre – A single-vineyard standout with earthy depth and complexity.
- Sangiovese – Light, bright, and layered with fruit and spice.
- Skeleton Key – A bold red blend that’s rich and age-worthy.
- Rosé of Mourvèdre – A dry, delicate pink with bright acidity and texture.
The Winery Experience
The tasting room sits on a scenic, oak-shaded property that offers both intimacy and views for days. Whether you’re sipping inside the historic farmhouse or relaxing on the patio with panoramic vineyard views, the vibe is upscale yet welcoming.
Guests can book guided tastings, food pairings, or exclusive experiences that dive deep into the winemaking process. Reservations are recommended—especially on weekends.
The Story Behind the Winery
William Chris Vineyards was founded in 2008 by William “Bill” Blackmon and Chris Brundrett, two native Texans with a shared vision: to produce wines that honor the land and the growers behind them. Bill brought decades of Texas viticulture experience, while Chris brought youthful energy and a passion for winemaking.
Together, they built a winery that would lead the movement for 100% Texas-grown wine. Their efforts paid off—William Chris became the first Texas winery to appear on the prestigious Top 100 Vineyards in the World list three years in a row (2022–2024).
Location & Visiting Info
Address: 10352 U.S. Hwy 290, Hye, TX 78635
County: Blanco County
Region: Hill Country
Website: www.williamchriswines.com
Reservations: Strongly encouraged; book online for tastings and tours.
Why It’s Worth a Stop on Your Texas Wine Journey
William Chris Vineyards isn’t just a stop—it’s a destination. Whether you’re new to wine or a seasoned sipper, this is one of the most meaningful and memorable tasting experiences in the state.
It’s not just about what’s in the glass—it’s about Texas pride, heritage farming, and what the future of Texas wine can (and should) be.
Insider Tips
- Try the Reserve Flight to experience their single-vineyard and limited production wines.
- Join the wine club if you’re a Texas wine enthusiast—they host exclusive events and release members-only bottles.
- Ask about the grower partnerships—they’ll happily tell you where every grape came from.
- Time your visit during wildflower season for an unforgettable Hill Country drive.
Final Thoughts
William Chris Vineyards stands at the forefront of Texas wine, showing the world what happens when you combine authenticity, talent, and deep respect for the land. From the moment you walk onto the property, you’ll know—you’re not just visiting a winery. You’re part of a movement.
Come for the wine. Stay for the story. Leave with a newfound appreciation for Texas terroir.
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At Jolly Outlaw, we’re building a unique community of outdoor adventurers and Texas explorers. As we grow, we’re looking for partners in fun who want to join us in creating authentic experiences, all while getting consistent, long-term exposure to an engaged and adventure-seeking audience.
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