There’s a certain magic that sweeps across the Hill Country in fall — cooler air, golden light, and long afternoons meant for good company and a glass of something local. Over the past two decades, this region has blossomed into one of the country’s most exciting wine, beer, and spirits destinations. From the rolling vineyards of Fredericksburg to the tucked-away distilleries near Blanco and Dripping Springs, the Hill Country pours hospitality by the glass.
If you’re planning a weekend getaway, here are some of the best spots to sip, taste, and relax this fall.
Wineries Worth the Drive
Becker Vineyards (Fredericksburg)
One of the oldest and most respected names in Texas wine, Becker Vineyards offers elegant tastings surrounded by lavender fields and vineyards. Their award-winning Tempranillo and Viognier pair beautifully with Hill Country sunsets. Fall brings grape harvest celebrations and live music weekends, making it an ideal time to visit.
Grape Creek Vineyards (Fredericksburg)
With Tuscan-style villas and panoramic vineyard views, Grape Creek feels like a trip to Italy without ever leaving Texas. Enjoy a guided tasting or glass service on their shaded patios. Their Cabernet Three Daughters blend is a local favorite.
Fall Creek Vineyards (Tow)
Located near Lake Buchanan, Fall Creek combines natural beauty with refined winemaking. The outdoor tasting lawn overlooks the water, and the staff’s passion for Texas terroir shines through every pour.
Breweries with Hill Country Spirit
Altstadt Brewery (Fredericksburg)
This German-style brewery blends tradition and Texas pride under one roof. The massive beer hall serves authentic Bavarian food, and their Altbier, Kölsch, and Hefeweizen are crafted to Reinheitsgebot purity standards. If you love Oktoberfest, this is your spot.
Real Ale Brewing Co. (Blanco)
Founded in 1996, Real Ale helped spark the craft beer movement in Texas. Their taproom in Blanco sits just off the square and features favorites like Firemans #4 Blonde Ale and Axis IPA. The brewery also produces small-batch spirits under the “Real Spirits” label — perfect for those who like variety.
Save the World Brewing (Marble Falls)
This philanthropic microbrewery donates 100% of profits to charity. Their Belgian-style ales are brewed with care and purpose, and their tasting room offers a relaxed, family-friendly atmosphere. Try the Agnus Dei Witbier or the Ex Umbris Stout.
Distilleries with Local Character
Garrison Brothers Distillery (Hye)
Texas’s first legal bourbon distillery is pure Hill Country legend. Garrison Brothers crafts small-batch bourbon with bold, complex flavors that reflect the Texas heat. Guided tours walk visitors through the aging barns, stillhouse, and tasting lounge — and yes, samples are included.
Treaty Oak Distilling (Dripping Springs)
Set on a sprawling ranch, Treaty Oak is a perfect mix of distillery, brewery, and restaurant. Try their Ghost Hill Bourbon or Waterloo Gin, both made with Texas-sourced grains and botanicals. Families and groups can relax under oak trees, play yard games, and enjoy live music most weekends.
Andalusia Whiskey Co. (Blanco)
For fans of smoky single malts, Andalusia brings Scottish craftsmanship to the Hill Country. Their Stryker Smoked Single Malt, aged in oak and mesquite, has gained a loyal following nationwide.
Plan the Perfect Sip Trip
The Hill Country’s “Texas Wine Trail” stretches from Dripping Springs to Fredericksburg and beyond, offering dozens of tasting rooms within easy driving distance of each other. The fall season is ideal — temperatures drop, vines turn gold, and outdoor patios come alive with music and laughter.
For a relaxed day, pick one cluster of towns (like Fredericksburg, Johnson City, or Blanco) and explore two or three stops. Alternate between wine, beer, and spirits — the mix keeps things interesting and showcases the Hill Country’s creative spirit.
Tasting Tips
- Book in advance for popular wineries and distilleries, especially weekends.
- Share tastings to try more without overdoing it.
- Bring a cooler for take-home bottles.
- Designate a driver or book a local tour service to travel safely between stops.
- Enjoy the scenery — half the fun is the drive itself through winding Hill Country backroad
The Hill Country has earned its reputation as one of the country’s most approachable and enjoyable tasting regions — where small-town warmth meets world-class craftsmanship. Whether you’re sipping bourbon in Blanco, sampling Riesling in Fredericksburg, or raising a pint in Dripping Springs, you’ll find flavors and friendships that linger long after the trip ends.
Sip, stay, and explore with Backroads Reservations.
Find charming vineyard cottages, river cabins, and ranch homes near your favorite tasting stops — all inside the Hill Country Travel App.