Texas Hill Country Wineries Toast to Summer

As the Texas Hill Country vineyards bask in the heat of late summer, wineries across the region are finding creative ways to help you savor the dog days of the season. July and August mark a vibrant time in wine country, as grapes begin to ripen and anticipation for harvest builds. To celebrate, Texas Hill Country Wineries members are hosting a variety of festive events that offer a delicious escape—from grape stomps and tasting experiences to live music, food pairings, and family-friendly fun. Below is a curated list of standout happenings from Texas Hill Country wineries to help you make the most of the season:

 
 

4th Annual Wine & Swine Harvest Season Kickoff

Saturday, July 12 Time: 3:00 p.m. - 6:00 p.m.

Join us for the 4th Annual Wine & Swine Pig Roast at 12 FIRES Winery & Vineyard, an afternoon of Texas Hill Country flavors, live music, and laid-back celebration. Enjoy a hearty serving of roasted pig with classic side dishes, sip on award-winning wines, and groove to live music by Gigi Worth. This year’s luau-themed party invites guests to dress the part, with a prize for ‘Best Dressed’ voted by popular choice. Cost: $44-$49


Becker Vineyards Annual Grape Stomp

Saturday, August 30 and Sunday, August 31

The Annual Grape Stomp at the Becker Estate Winery & Vineyard is a festive outdoor celebration of harvest season. Guests of all ages are invited to take part in the traditional grape stomping experience—no reservations or fees required. Children are welcome to stomp with parental supervision, making it a fun and memorable outing for the whole family. Cost: Free Link:


The Lucy & Italian Woman Costume Contest

Sunday, August 31 Time: 2:45 p.m. - 4:00 p.m.

Inspired by Lucille Ball’s iconic grape stomping episode from the television classic “I Love Lucy,” Becker Estate Winery & Vineyard will hold a contest inviting participants to enter with their best costumes inspired by the episode. 1st, 2nd, and 3rd place contestants will be awarded based upon costume, stomping ability, and enthusiasm. Cost: Free.


Flat Creek Estate Hosts Harvest Tours

Every Saturday from July 12 - August 9 at 11:00 a.m.

Harvest Tours offer an in-depth look at the vineyard and winemaking process, from grape maturity and phenolics in the field to fermentation techniques in the cellar. Led by Winemaker Olivier de Certaines, the experience explores the chemistry, decisions, and craftsmanship that shape each vintage. Cost: $35-$45


Flat Creek Estate Hosts a Harvest Table: A Winemaker Brunch

Sunday, August 3 Time: 12:00 p.m. - 2:00 p.m.

Enjoy an intimate four-course brunch with Winemaker Olivier de Certaines, set during the height of harvest at Flat Creek Estate. Featuring a seasonal, chef-curated menu paired with limited-production estate wines, the event offers a relaxed setting to hear insights on the 2025 vintage and winemaking in progress. This special brunch replaces the traditional Winemaker Dinner, celebrating the vineyard's bounty in the glow of morning light. Cost: $90


2025 Grape Stomp and Tour at Hye Meadow Winery

Every Saturday in August at 1:30 p.m. or 3:30 p.m.

Step into harvest season every Saturday in August with our 2025 Grape Stomp and Tour—a hands-on journey through the winemaking process. Enjoy a behind-the-scenes production tour, a guided tasting, and the chance to stomp grapes just like vintners of old. Cap it all off with a special souvenir to remember this unforgettable day of wine, laughter, and barefoot fun. Cost: $40


Sunset Harvest at Messina Hof Hill Country

Friday, August 22, 6-8:30 PM

An immersive evening of sharing our vineyard history and traditions, set against the glow of a Texas sunset. Guests enjoy a wine-paired dinner, guided grape picking and stomping, and a behind-the-scenes look at winemaking our winemaking process, all culminating in dessert and a Private Reserve Papa Paulo Port toast under the stars. Cost: $75


Messina Hof Hill Country Winery’s 13th Annual Harvest Festival

Saturday, August 23 Time: 9-11:00 a.m.

This family-friendly event invites guests to hand-pick grapes and carry on our stomping tradition to help create the 2025 vintage of the exclusive Private Reserve Papa Paulo Port. Enjoy a morning filled with vineyard strolls, wine tastings, and the chance to leave your mark with purple footprints on a souvenir “Harvest Crew” t-shirt. Cost: $40-$60


Grape Stomp and Paella Party hosted by Texas Wine Collective

Saturday, August 9 Time: 6:30-9:00 p.m.

Enjoy the sweet fragrance of ripened grapes in the air and ring in the next vintage. Come for live music by Gustavo Rodriguez, dinner, and wine. Ticket price includes wine tasting, one glass of wine with Paella dinner, a T-shirt, and grape stomping! Cost: $85


Grape Stomp at Wildseed Vineyards

Saturdays and Sundays in August

Come take part in the harvest grape stomping at Wildseed Vineyards’ stunning 200-acre wildflower farm and vineyard, stroll the grounds, enjoy a glass of wine in our tasting room and leave with a commemorative tee. Cost: $45


Harvest Festival at William Chris Vineyards

Saturday, August 9 Time: 6-9:00 p.m.

The first-ever Harvest Festival at William Chris Vineyards kicks off the 2025 grape harvest with an evening of wine, live music, and family-friendly fun in the Texas Hill Country. Guests can enjoy grape punch-downs, lawn games, a winemaker competition, and “bobbing for Sway” all rooted in the spirit of community and connection. Sip, stomp, and dance under the stars at this hands-on summer celebration. Cost: $25-$60


Whether you're a seasoned wine lover or simply seeking a new adventure, the Texas Hill Country’s harvest season promises unforgettable experiences in a setting as rich in character as the wines it produces. Mark your calendar, raise a glass, and toast to a season filled with flavor, festivity, and the unmistakable charm of Texas wine country.

Texas, USACynthia Smoot