They have been working with the Texas soil since 1976. Considered the oldest winery in Texas post Prohibition. Llano Estacado has grown to be the largest and best-selling premium winery in the state. In fact, they sell more wine than the next 17 top producers combined. That is quite an accomplishment. They have introduced the Lone Star State to the global market.
In 1976 a horticulturist from Texas Tech convinced farmers that West Texas soil was able to produce quality wine grapes. By 1980 word was spreading. In 1984 they won their first Double Gold Medal for their Chardonnay at the San Francisco Fair’s prestigious International Wine Competition. And away they went!
The Texas High Plains Appelation, was established in 1993. It is the largest wine-grape growing region in the state. It is flat, with long hot dry summers and cool evenings. The soil, a sandy loam drains well and is free of the diseases that destroyed so many vineyards in California and France.
Llano Estacado wines can be found in all border states to Texas, California, three European markets, and Japan and Russia. Their market has grown to more than 170,000 cases (12 bottles in a case) a year with the tank capacity to produce well over 200,000 cases annually.
This Texas giant has made a commitment to its consumers, that at all costs, even with inflation and the scarcity of available Texas grapes to produce 100% Texas made wines. In fact, Llano Estacado Winery currently has 60 wines in its portfolio between mainstream wines for Retailers, On-Premise wines only found in restaurants, and their wine club offerings. Of these 60 wines, 52 of them are 100% Texas. If that’s not statement, I don’t know what is!
It’s crazy to think that a winery located in Lubbock, TX and not the Hill Country is responsible for not only paving the way for so many other Texas wineries, but for never giving up and staying the course to truly shine in the Lone Star state with their affordable and high quality wines.
Llano Estacado Cheesy Chardonnay Dip
16 oz Cheese room temperature. Use a combination of Blue, Goat, Cheddar, Parmesan, Provolone, Brie, or any available combination you have on hand.
3 T softened Butter
1 clove minced Garlic
¼ cup Llano Estacado Chardonnay
Put all ingredients into a food processor and puree. Transfer to a serving bowl and chill in the refrigerator for at least one hour before serving.
Serve with crackers or fresh vegetables.
CHEERS!
