Best Wineries Near San Marcos

If you’ve ever found yourself yearning for a break from the beautiful chaos that is Texas and thought, “You know what I need? A glass of wine, a scenic drive, and someone else’s kids to keep mine occupied,” then buckle up. The Texas Hill Country near San Marcos offers a whirlwind of vineyards, tasting rooms, and vino-filled delights that promise to deliver all the Texas-grown grapes, friendly staff, and award-winning wines your heart (and Instagram) could ever desire. Ready to taste the Texas Hill Country’s finest?

The Hill Country’s Greatest Grapes & Scenic Drives: From San Marcos to Wine Paradise

Whether you’re into big reds, refreshing whites, or want to get fancy with a charcuterie board, this area has it all—and more. Ready? Pour yourself a glass (no judging) and let’s explore.

1. Driftwood Estate Winery

Perched high on a bluff, Driftwood Estate Winery gives you views so breathtaking you might just forget you’re in Texas. Sip on their different wines crafted from the best Texas-grown grapes, and if you’re lucky, you’ll catch some live music while you soak it all in. Driftwood Estate is the spot for exclusive access to the true heart of the Texas Hill Country. Between the award-winning wines and the equally award-winning views, it’s practically impossible not to have an unforgettable experience here. Located at 4001 Elder Hill Rd, Driftwood, TX 78619.

2. Duchman Family Winery

Is a wine-tasting trip even complete if you didn’t indulge in a bit of Italian flair? Duchman Family Winery in Driftwood (yes, Driftwood is that lucky) brings you Italian varieties with a Texas twist. This spot is the “hidden gem” for private events and special occasions, but also casual tastings with the friendliest staff around. The Duchman’s Sidecar Tasting Room offers charcuterie boards, so you can feel extra sophisticated while pairing good food with even better wine. It’s a great place to impress a date, your in-laws, or maybe even yourself. Located at 13308 Ranch to Market Rd 150, Driftwood, TX 78619.

3. Wimberley Valley Winery

Looking for a unique vibe? Wimberley Valley Winery’s cozy, rustic vibe offers one of the most unforgettable experiences near San Marcos. Known for its laid-back tasting room, this winery serves up local wines that are both delicious and Instagram-worthy. Whether you’re into Texas wines or simply here to relax, this is the place to sip, savor, and stock up on bottles of wine to take home (you know, for when family visits). Located at 2825 Lone Man Mountain Rd, Driftwood, TX 78619.

4. Fall Creek Vineyards

Next up is Fall Creek Vineyards, the royalty of Texas wineries. It’s a short drive from San Marcos, and yes, the scenic route is 100% worth it. Special discounts are often available on their wines (hint: check the events calendar), so you can splurge on an exclusive tasting without selling your firstborn. Grab a charcuterie board, toast to Texas’s finest wine, and soak in that warm Hill Country vibe. Located at 18059 Ranch to Market Rd 1826, Driftwood, TX 78619.

5. Dry Comal Creek Vineyards

A fan favorite in New Braunfels, Dry Comal Creek Vineyards is here to make sure you have an unforgettable experience. They’re known for offering private events and special wine tours that showcase the Texas Hill Country American Viticultural Area (yes, it’s a real thing). You’ll find a selection of wines, including Italian varieties and dry wines, which they lovingly create with their own wine process. It’s a great way to explore Texas wines while learning a thing or two (or at least pretending to). Located at 1741 Herbelin Rd, New Braunfels, TX 78132.

7. Salt Lick Cellars

Salt Lick Cellars in Driftwood is the place for BBQ and wine aficionados. Yes, you read that right—BBQ and wine, together in harmony. There’s live music, Texas hill country wines, and, of course, BBQ to die for. The atmosphere is as warm as the brisket, and there’s no better pairing than smoked meat and the best Texas wines. Located at 18300 Ranch to Market Rd 1826 UNIT C, Driftwood, TX 78619.

For the Full Experience: Wine Tours Galore

For those of you who believe one winery is simply not enough (which, let’s be honest, is the entire reason you’re reading this), a wine tour is the best way to see all these gems in one go. Many providers offer tours that include transportation, scenic drives, and even custom stops, so all you have to do is sit back, sip, and let someone else do the work.

A Few Final Tips for the Texas Hill Country Wine Scene

Here’s a little secret: fall is prime time for wine tasting in the Texas Hill Country. Between cooler temperatures, special discounts, and exclusive events, you’re in for an unforgettable experience. Check each vineyard’s events calendar to see what’s happening, snag those special discounts, and prepare for a Texas wine tasting adventure that even Napa can’t top.

So grab your friends, an empty suitcase for wine bottles, and a designated driver—or better yet, a wine tour bus—and make the most of these scenic vineyards. After all, a day in Texas wine country is the ultimate “me-time” escape, no kids required.