Lubbock, situated in the expansive High Plains of Texas, may not boast the size of cities like Houston, Dallas, or Austin, yet it proudly stands as the 11th largest city in the Lone Star State. Beyond being renowned as the birthplace of the rock ‘n’ roll legend Buddy Holly and home to Texas Tech University, Lubbock has emerged as a hub for award-winning wineries. The warm climate of the Texas High Plains provides ideal conditions for grape cultivation, with over 80% of Texas wine grapes thriving in this region. Here are three Lubbock wineries that deserve your attention:
McPherson Cellars, helmed by James Beard semi-finalist winemaker Kim McPherson, is celebrated for its distinctive winemaking style. A standout creation is ‘The Queen,’ a dry white Viognier that undergoes white wine fermentation with its golden skins—a technique typically reserved for red wines. ‘The Queen’ has earned a spot on wine lists at establishments like the Queen’s English in Washington, D.C., and Nicolett in Lubbock. McPherson Cellars is also known for producing wines from grape varieties like Picpoul Blanc and Cinsault.
Many of the award-winning wines crafted by McPherson Cellars originate from grapes cultivated in the Sagmor vineyard, as the winery collaborates with various growers to craft its renowned wines. Tours and tastings at McPherson Cellars are available from Tuesday to Saturday, between 12 p.m. and 7 p.m.
Llano Estacado, one of Texas‘ oldest and largest premium wineries, has been crafting wines since 1976. Under the guidance of winemaker Jason Centanni, Llano Estacado offers a diverse range of varietals, with the distinction of having served their wines at White House dinners for Presidents George H. W. Bush and George W. Bush.
Visitors to Llano Estacado have the opportunity to partake in wine tastings and tours, where they can sample the winery’s award-winning wines and gain insights into the wine production process. Tastings are available from Tuesday to Saturday, spanning 12 p.m. to 5 p.m., with the added attraction of happy hour specials from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m. on Tuesday through Friday. Sunday visiting hours are from 1 p.m. to 5 p.m.
English Newsom Cellars distinguishes itself as one of the few wineries in the region that cultivate their own Estate grapes, offering complete control over the winemaking process. Their estate yields unique grape varieties such as Picardan and Sagrantino, resulting in wines that have earned acclaim from both national and international judges.
Tastings at English Newsom Cellars are open from Tuesday to Friday, commencing at 1 p.m., with extended hours until 9 p.m. on Wednesday, Friday, and Saturday. The tasting fee is $15 per person, providing (5) two-ounce pours of white, rosé, and red wines.
When your travels take you to Lubbock, Texas, seize the opportunity to explore these welcoming High Plains wineries. These establishments not only offer a chance to savor award-winning wines but also provide a glimpse into the winemaking process and the dedicated individuals behind Lubbock’s thriving wine scene.
