Introduction and Quick Summary
In my unwavering quest to explore the best of Texas wines and the wineries that craft them, my journey brought me to the prestigious Becker Vineyards. This gem among Texas wineries is not just a testament to the quality and sophistication of Texas wines but also a pioneer in the evolution of the Texas wine industry. From the sprawling vineyards to the impeccably designed tasting rooms, Becker Vineyards offers an experience that embodies the heart and soul of Texas winemaking. This review aims to share my enchanting visit, focusing on the vineyard’s storied history, its unique approach to viticulture, and the exquisite wines that capture the essence of Texas terroir.
Becker Vineyards stands out in the crowded field of Texas wineries for its dedication to excellence, innovation, and authentic expression of varietal character. With a diverse portfolio of wines that speak to both the novice and the connoisseur, this vineyard has mastered the art of winemaking in a way that is both approachable and profound. My exploration of their offerings was a journey through the flavors and aromas that make Texas wines truly special.
The Winery’s History and Facility
Nestled in the heart of Texas wine country, Becker Vineyards has been a beacon of winemaking tradition and innovation since its inception. Founded by a family with a deep love for the land and a vision to produce world-class wines, the vineyard has grown to encompass acres of prime viticultural land, meticulously cultivated to yield grapes of the highest quality. The facility itself is a blend of rustic charm and modern efficiency, housing state-of-the-art winemaking equipment within walls that echo the heritage of Texas architecture.
The winery is larger than most in the Texas Hill Country, with a spacious wine tasting room, a separate tasting room for members, and covered outdoor seating with its own wine bar. From the moment you walk in you will feel the quality of the establishment.
Inside the tasting room you will find a wraparound bar in the center, and a healthy assortment of merchandise around the walls, with a wide variety to choose from. This includes refrigerated options for food and drinks. All the tasting is done at the bar. When you enter and pay for your tasting, you will be given tickets, one for each tasting. You can use them inside or out and combine two or more if you wish to have more of one wine than another. That is actually a nice option to have and can make your tasting more personalized especially if there is one of the wines you know you will not enjoy. Note that tastings are $25 for six wines of your choice, and you can expect to choose those six from an inventory of 15-20 wines. And by the way, the staff are very friendly – at least during the week when it is not so crazy! Lol
Another interesting aspect to visiting Becker Vineyards is the lavender fields. Three acres of lavender growing adjacent to the tasting room and the outside seating areas. This makes the experience even more beautiful.
What Makes Becker Vineyards Unique
Three acres of lavender growing adjacent to the tasting room and the outside seating areas.
My Wine Pick
If I had to choose one wine to buy and take with me, which one would it be?
Ranger Hays, $50.
Highlighted Wines
Becker Vineyards has been in its Stonewall location since 1996, and therefore has a great advantage of nearing 25 years in business. This is especially true for the estate wines. Estate grapes are grown over 66 acres and encompass 11 grape varietals. You will find that the estate grapes plus those brought in from the Texas High Plains and the Hill Country allow Becker to offer one of the largest wine selections of any of the vineyards I have visited.
2021 Viognier Reserve
You will have to try this one on your tasting journey, as Becker was the first commercial growing of the Viognier grape in Texas. Their Viognier is very nice and exudes that familiar Viognier flavor and aromas.
2022 D’Estate
A blend of Viognier, Sauvignon Blanc, and Marsanne. While I found it refreshing, it wasn’t my favorite. I think Marsanne altered the flavor enough to take away the tasting notes you’d get from a Viognier or Sauvignon Blanc.
2018 Ranger Haze
This is one of their most popular red wines. It is a blend of five different grape varietals, with Malbec being the most prominent. I walked away with a bottle of this one as I found the flavor just past simple and heading into complicated. There were definitely dark fruit flavors and a full body on this one. I would recommend this one.
2020 Malbec Reserve
The Malbec Reserve is a masterclass in balance and subtlety, with soft tannins, rich berry flavors, and a finish that lingers just long enough to invite another sip. It’s a testament to the careful craftsmanship that defines Becker Vineyards.
2019 Cabernet Sauvignon Reserve
This cab is right on par with most cabernet sauvignon produced in Texas, with its green pepper and ripe cherry flavors highlighted. It is not a bad bottle to have, and I would enjoy every drop, but I probably wouldn’t make it a wine of choice.
2018 Inverno
This blend can be considered a full-bodied Italian wine from Texas. The Cab Franc takes point on this wine and brings out the cherry flavors. You’ll find this one to be medium tannin and medium acidity. I didn’t get overjoyed by it, but it was nice.
Other Wines Produced
Beyond these highlights, Becker Vineyards boasts an impressive portfolio that includes additional white wine options such as the Roussanne Reserve, a couple of dry Rose’ options, additional red wines, and semi-sweet and dessert wines, including port.
Wine Club
The wine club is fairly standard among the larger wineries, with a 3, 6, and 12 bottle option delivered 4 times per year. The standard membership level includes both red and white wines, while the white wines club is only a 6-bottle club 4 times per year. There is a “Red Premier” club with some of their more exclusive wines offered. The wine selection for each of the memberships is selected by the winemaker and the assistant winemaker, and there are no substitutions.
Members get a 20% discount on bottles of wine, and 10-20% on merchandise depending on level. These discounts are at or above average. Members also get access to members-only events, and receive complimentary wine tastings each visit for up to 4 people. One additional bonus is a complimentary Annual VIP tasting tour for members and up to 10 guests, something no other winery I know of offers.
Pickup parties are scheduled four times per year and offer complimentary wine tastings, live music, and snacks.
If you have never joined a wine club before and you like their wines, this is a good one try first.
FAQ
Q1: Can I visit Becker Vineyards for a wine tour?
A1: Absolutely! Becker Vineyards welcomes visitors for tastings and tours, offering an intimate look at their winemaking process.
Q2: Does Becker Vineyards offer a wine club?
A2: Yes, their wine club provides members with exclusive access to limited releases, special events, and more.
Q3: Are Becker Vineyards’ wines available for purchase online?
A3: Yes, a selection of their wines can be purchased through their website, bringing the taste of Texas wine country to your doorstep.
Q4: Can Becker Vineyards host private events?
A5: Yes, the vineyard offers beautiful settings for weddings, corporate events, and other private functions.
Conclusion
All in all, the Becker wines offer a great value. One of my favorites, the Viognier, is only $25 per bottle, and the many of the reds are $30-$40 per bottle, with a few of the higher end ones topping out at $50. These are all non-member prices. For the quality of the wines, this is a good value.
Becker Vineyards is more than just a winery; it’s a cornerstone of the Texas wine industry, offering an unparalleled experience that celebrates the richness and diversity of Texas wines. With their commitment to quality, sustainability, and the art of winemaking, Becker Vineyards invites wine lovers to discover the beauty and complexity of Texas terroir. Whether you’re a seasoned wine enthusiast or new to the world of wine, a visit to Becker Vineyards is a journey worth taking.
About the Author
A native of Texas, Ken “Texan” Pierce is a renowned alcohol aficionado with over 15 years of experience in the Texas wine, whiskey, and beer industry. With a vast number of alcohol production resources right in his back yard in the Texas Hill Country, Ken has made it his mission to promote and advance the Texas winemaking, distilling, and brewing industry across the country. His uncanny ability to identify tasting notes and pairings makes him a respected authority within alcohol enthusiast circles. When he’s not reviewing the latest craft spirits, you can find Ken playing his guitar, trying to sing, and sipping on a Texas libation.
