Planning your first (or next) Austin winery day? Here’s everything you need to know, including where to go, how tastings work, what it costs, and insider routes from a local host.
Why Austin for Wine Tours?
Austin sits on the edge of Texas Hill Country, a patchwork of rolling limestone hills, oak trees, and microclimates that suit Mediterranean grapes (think Tempranillo, Mourvèdre, Sangiovese, Viognier). Within 30–60 minutes of downtown, you’ll find serene vineyards, ranch-style distilleries, and easygoing breweries.
The result? Idyllic locations and exceptional wines and spirits, perfect for a relaxed libation day.
Quick Answer: How to Book (in 5 Steps)
- Pick your region. Our top picks: South of 290 (Driftwood/Dripping Springs) or Spicewood/Lake Travis.
- Choose your vibe: all-wine, wine + spirits, or wine + brewery.
- Set your timeframe & group size: most days run 4–6 hours with 2–4 stops.
- Reserve tastings: popular spots book up, especially Fri–Sun.
- Lock transportation & a host: private, chef-led tours remove the stress so you can just sip and enjoy.
The Best Regions for an Austin Winery Tour
South of 290 (Driftwood & Dripping Springs)
Think sweeping views, oak-dotted lawns, and an easy mix of wineries, a sotol distillery, vodka tasting rooms, and breweries. Great for groups that want variety and short drives between stops.
Classic stops:
- Salt Lick Cellars (Open daily) – Wines next to legendary BBQ under the live oaks.
- Duchman Family Winery (Open daily) – Texas-grown fruit, Old-World style.
- Driftwood Estate Winery (Open daily) – Hilltop panoramas with award-winning pours.
- Desert Door Sotol (Fri–Sun) – Earthy-elegant cocktails in a desert-modern lounge.
- Deep Eddy Vodka (Fri–Sun) – Crisp cocktails in a chill tasting room.
- Twisted X Brewing (Open daily) – Inventive small-batch brews and sunny lagers.
- Vista Brewing (Fri–Sun) – 21-acre farm vibes, live music, and fresh bites.
Spicewood & Lake Travis
Lush vineyard scenes, lake breezes, and a slower pace—ideal for wine-first days with postcard views.
Popular choices:
- Spicewood Vineyards – Estate-crafted wines on a serene veranda.
- Iron Wolf Ranch & Distillery (Fri–Sun) – Bold Texas spirits on a 15-acre ranch.
- 5 Soul Wine Co. & Front Yard Brewing (Fri–Sun) – Elevated beer-garden energy across green lawns.
- Stone House Vineyards (Thurs–Sun) – Reservation-only tastings with Lake Travis vistas.
Chef Mike’s Insider tip: Opening days vary (some venues are Fri–Sun only). We’ll pre-build your route around actual hours to avoid last-minute pivots.
How Tastings Work (and What They Cost)
- Flights & pours: Most wineries offer flights of 4–6 tastes or by-the-glass options.
- Typical fees: Expect roughly $15–$30 per tasting (varies by venue and release).
- Reservations: Weekends book out, so reserve ahead for groups, patios, or veranda seating.
- Food: Many wineries have light bites or partner food trucks; check before you go if you want a full lunch stop. Our top pick would be Vista Brewing’s fresh farm food.
- Gratuities: Always appreciated for great service, especially for hosted tastings or larger groups.
Transportation: DIY vs. Hosted
- Designated driver (DIY): Cheapest, but the driver misses tastings and must navigate parking, timing, and reservations.
- Rideshare: Works for single hops, but coverage between rural venues can be spotty and expensive.
- Private, hosted tour: A dedicated host handles timing, reservations, photos, and pacing, so the whole group relaxes. (It’s also the easiest way to keep the day safe and seamless, exactly what we do at ALT)
Sample Itineraries (Some of Our Favourite Routes)
South of 290 – Wine + Spirits
- Duchman Family Winery (Open daily) – Start with Old-World-style Texas wines.
- Driftwood Estate Winery (Open daily) – Hilltop views and award-winners.
- Desert Door Sotol (Fri–Sun) or Deep Eddy Vodka (Fri–Sun) – Signature cocktails and a change of pace.
- Salt Lick Cellars (Open daily) – End with a glass and optional BBQ next door.
Spicewood – Wine-Forward with Views
- Stone House Vineyards (Thurs–Sun) – Reservation-only, Lake Travis outlook.
- Spicewood Vineyards – Estate wines on the veranda.
- Iron Wolf Ranch & Distillery (Fri–Sun) or 5 Soul Wine Co. & Front Yard Brewing (Fri–Sun) – Round out with spirits or a sunny beer-garden finish.
When to Go
- Weekdays: Quieter tasting rooms and easier reservations.
- Weekends: Livelier energy; book early.
- Seasonality: Spring wildflowers and fall harvest offer gorgeous scenery; summers are warm so seek shaded patios and indoor lounges.
What to Wear & Bring
- Smart casual + layers: Texas weather changes fast; patios can be breezy.
- Comfortable shoes: Gravel paths and lawns are common.
- Sun protection: Hat, SPF, sunglasses.
- Water & snacks: Many venues provide, but it’s wise to stay hydrated between stops.
- ID & payment: Tastings check IDs; some rural spots have limited mobile service, so we recommend carrrying a card.
Booking Checklist
- Choose region (South of 290, Spicewood or Dripping Springs)
- Pick 2–4 venues that match your vibe
- We’ll confirm opening days/hours (some Fri–Sun only)
- Reserve tastings (note patio/indoor preference)
- Arrange transport/host
- Plan a food stop (BBQ, farm bites, or winery snacks)
- Share itinerary with your group + set meetup time
- Bring ID, water, and a light layer
FAQs
How long is an Austin winery tour?
Most run 4–6 hours with 2–4 stops, depending on pace and photo breaks.
Are tasting fees included in tours?
Sometimes. Many private tours keep fees separate so you can choose flights, glasses, or cocktails à la carte. Always check your package.
Can we mix wine, spirits, and a brewery?
Yes, especially in South of 290 where venues are close together.
Do wineries allow kids or pets?
Policies vary. Some patios are family-friendly and pet-friendly; confirm when booking.
What’s the best day to go?
Weekdays for quiet tastings; weekends for energy and live music. Book ahead either way.
Ready to Book?
Prefer a day without logistics? Choose a custom route (built around your tastes) or a curated route (we select the season’s best mix) with Chef-led hosting so you can simply sip and enjoy.
Popular options:
- South of 290 Libation Tour – Wine + spirits + brewery possibilities
- Spicewood Tour – Wine-forward with lake and vineyard views