In early May, Halter Ranch—a winery based in Paso Robles, California—opened Halter Ranch Texas, a luxury tasting room in Fredericksburg. Set on a 32-acre landscape studded with oak trees, the tasting room features a rich selection of wines made from organic grapes and an elevated restaurant that offers seasonal, organic cuisine celebrating the Texas Hill Country’s local bounty. The tasting room adds to the numerous wineries, shopping destinations, and eateries along the Fredericksburg Wine Road 290.
Located about one hour from San Antonio and Austin, the property honors its Texas home and invites guests to explore fine wine from organic grapes and locally sourced cuisine at its on-site restaurant, Restaurant H. Led by Executive Chef Paul Arangorin, Restaurant H features a dynamic seasonal menu that supports Texas suppliers—Halter Ranch works with local purveyors for menu creation at all of its properties in an effort to further sustainability as it relates to farming and winemaking.
The surrounding natural landscape is the winery’s main focal point, welcoming attendees away from the hustle and bustle and deep into the oak forest, lush with native flora. Floor-to-ceiling windows and its patio provide attendees with an indoor/outdoor experience and sweeping views of the Texas Hill Country.
“Like many who visit the Texas Hill Country, we were enchanted by the land and drawn to create another home for Halter Ranch,” says Bryce Mullins, vice president and general manager of Halter Ranch, in a prepared statement. “We’re humbled by the warm welcome from the Fredericksburg community and look forward to offering an oasis in our growing Texas wine club while inviting others into the Halter Ranch family.”
Led by Halter Ranch winemaker Kevin Sass, Halter Ranch Texas’ expansive wine selection includes a new Texas-made rosé and a sparkling cabernet sauvignon. Sass partners with two Texas farmers who harvest organic grapes and works closely with Bending Branch Winery in the community of Comfort, Texas, to produce the wines. With a drive to innovate and experiment, Sass is planting 1 acre of organic blanc du bois grapes on the Halter Ranch Texas property.
“Our priority with Halter Ranch Texas was to create something beautiful with as little impact on the land as possible,” Sass shares. “This is also the backbone of our viticulture: an organic approach that blossoms into delectable, terroir-forward wines. We can’t wait to share Halter Ranch with all of Texas.”
At Halter Ranch Texas, The Oak Room, which also has a private patio, can be reserved during normal business hours for private events. The tasting room also owns a renovated Volkswagen Bus, available for use during events as a photo backdrop or a wine-pouring station.
