SIP, SAVOR, AND EXPLORE: A DAY IN TEXAS WINE COUNTRY NEAR HOTEL VIATA AUSTIN
Texas Hill Country is home to one of the fastest-growing wine and spirits scenes in the country—and Hotel Viata Austin is your perfectly placed home base to explore it all. With its stunning hillside views and proximity to the Dripping Springs, Driftwood, and Fredericksburg areas, Viata gives guests easy access to curated tasting rooms, rustic vineyards, and small-batch distilleries—many within just a 30 to 60-minute drive.
Whether you’re a seasoned connoisseur or simply in search of a scenic day trip filled with bold reds and craft cocktails, here’s your guide to the most memorable wine and spirits stops near Hotel Viata.
Duchman Family Winery – Driftwood (30 min drive)
Old World Italian, Texas Grown
Nestled among the cypress trees and limestone hills of Driftwood, Duchman Family Winery is known for its Texas-grown Italian varietals like Vermentino, Sangiovese, and Montepulciano. The Tuscan-inspired tasting room and picnic-perfect grounds make this a favorite for both seasoned sippers and casual weekenders.
What to Try: Vermentino, Aglianico, Trebbiano
Perfect Pairing: Bring a picnic and enjoy the shaded outdoor seating with vineyard views.
Bell Springs Winery & Brewing – Dripping Springs (35 min drive)
Wine Flights and Hill Country Vibes
For a more laid-back vibe, Bell Springs offers a relaxing outdoor patio with live music, food trucks, and a wide selection of wines and small-batch beers. It’s a great stop if your group has a mix of wine and beer lovers.
What to Try: Reserve Red Blend, Tempranillo, Seasonal Rosé
Insider Tip: Visit on weekends for live acoustic sets and rotating food trucks.
Fall Creek Vineyards – Driftwood (35 min drive)
Texas Wine Royalty
One of the pioneers of the Texas wine scene, Fall Creek’s Driftwood tasting room combines history, elegance, and a commitment to bold varietals. With beautiful architecture and a cozy fireplace inside, it’s an ideal year-round destination.
What to Try: GSM (Grenache, Syrah, Mourvèdre), Chardonnay, Meritus
Experience: Book a wine and food pairing session with a sommelier-led tasting.
Dripping Springs Distilling – Dripping Springs (40 min drive)
Small Batch Spirits, Big Hill Country Character
Known for its award-winning vodka and gins, this distillery offers intimate tours and tastings in a relaxed countryside setting. Go behind the scenes to learn about the copper pot still process, then sip handcrafted cocktails on the shaded patio.
What to Try: Dripping Springs Artisan Vodka, Orange Vodka, Traditional Gin
Best For: Guests looking to expand their tasting experience beyond wine.
Treaty Oak Distilling – Dripping Springs (45 min drive)
Where Whiskey Meets Culinary Craft
Set on a sprawling 28-acre ranch, Treaty Oak blends distilling, dining, and nature into one immersive experience. With a full-service kitchen, beer garden, and tasting room, it’s a great all-afternoon stop.
What to Try: Ghost Hill Texas Bourbon, Red Handed Rye, Ranch Water
Don’t Miss: Whiskey flights, house BBQ, and cocktails under the oaks.
The Austin Winery – South Austin (25 min drive)
Urban Winemaking, Hill Country Heart
If you’re short on time but still want a tasting experience, The Austin Winery is a hip, urban space just south of downtown with a thoughtful selection of Texas-grown and natural wines. Bonus: it’s open late and perfect for a casual evening hangout.
What to Try: Workhorse Red, Skin-Contact Viognier, Pet-Nat
Vibe: Industrial chic, with vinyl playing and rotating art shows.
Make It a Day—Or a Weekend
After a day of sipping and exploring, retreat back to Hotel Viata Austin to unwind in your spacious suite, take a dip in the hillside pool, or enjoy dinner at Laurel Restaurant. For the ultimate end to your tasting day, book a relaxing treatment at Spa Viata—because nothing pairs better with a day in wine country than a calming massage and sunset view.
Tips for Planning Your Texas Wine Country Adventure
- Transportation: Consider booking a private car or guided tour for a safe, carefree experience. The concierge at Hotel Viata can assist with recommendations.
- Timing: Start your day around 10:30 AM and aim to visit 2–3 locations, allowing time for tastings and travel.
- Reservations: Call ahead for tastings, especially on weekends, as many wineries and distilleries require advance booking.
Ready to raise a glass in Hill Country style?
Plan your wine and spirits day trip with Hotel Viata as your home base—and let your Texas getaway be full of flavor, charm, and unforgettable sips.
