Esperanza Winery LLC — Attraction in Blanco

Blanco has many local, historic, and natural charms to this little town in the Hill Country. Now, it has something people will talk about more when they go to Blanco…a charming winery! Opened since this past April, owner Judith Raven is no stranger to the Texas grape and wine world. For almost 20 years, she has been experimenting with grape growing in the Hill Country near Spring Branch. The estate has about 6 acres of grape vines planted and is known for Sauvignon Blanc, Tempranillo, and Merlot. The logo on the bottles, a raven, is a nod to the owner’s last name. When we visited, there were six wines featured on their tasting menu. The 2018 Sauvignon Blanc is sourced from Sierra Foothills AVA until the Texas Sauvignon Blanc grapes are ready. It is quite crisp with some distinct peach notes. The 2017 Hill Country Tannat is quite smooth with ripe strawberry and jam flavors. The 2017 Texas High Plains Tempranillo features more spice with a smooth finish. You’ll be delighted and quite happy with the 2014 Petite Syrah/Sangiovese blend. Sourced from Reddy Vineyards, it is still drinking quite well. It is bold with nice tannic structure and is well balanced. The last Esperanza wine is a sweet Orange Muscat. Source from the Texas High Plains, it hits the spot when temperatures heat up during the last three months of the year! There is also a wine from Fly Gap that you can try called Cowboy Way. It is for those who enjoy something bold and strong in a red. We enjoyed visiting with Judith’s daughter and hearing how they came up with the name for the winery. The name Esperanza comes from Judith’s childhood and relates to many good things that came with that name on her life’s journey, starting with living on a street named such. Now, Blanco has more good things going for it with the addition of this winery in the area. Inside the tasting room one will find tables and assorted cozy areas to sit and sip and relax as they enjoy their visit. There are also tables and chairs outside to enjoy the lovely warm fall temperatures of late. There is new artwork on the walls for sale by local artists making the space even more inviting and interesting. All in all, the space makes you feel right at home. Stop by and check it out for yourself. You just might find some new wines you enjoy and make sure to keep checking in from time to time, because there are more wines planned to be...

Can't tell u how many times I've driven past this... let's say "unassuming" wine shop without stopping. Finally, on a lark, popped in.

Ok, some places are so good I just wanna keep it as my own "unassuming" secret. And this is one if those places that I am sharing now.

Im not kidding, and I'm not waxing hyperbolic when I say - some of the best damn wine in all of Texas. In fact, likely THE best wine you've never heard of. And that's cuz the owner doesn't care about medals.

I double dog dare you to stop in here and tell me I'm wrong. DOUBLE DOG...

What a great place to go have excellent wine and great atmosphere. I love dry wine and was not disappointed. The Cab was excellent. Bottle at home now. The conversation with the owner was great. Their red sangria is awesome even if you don’t like sweet wine. I had a great afternoon here. Don’t pass this up if traveling down highway 281...