When was the last time you visited a Texas winery? If you’re like tons of Americans, you’ll say recently. According to Orbitz.com, Texas is the second most visited wine region in the country behind Napa/Sonoma.

I recently hosted the Texas Agriculture Department’s first series of wine videocasts which you can see on my Web site www.goodtastewithtanji.com. Head to the Vino section and click on ‘Texas Wines’.

I was surprised to learn what a HUGE industry winemaking is in Texas. It contributes more than $1.3 billion yearly to our state’s economy.

So, if you haven’t made a day trip yet to some of the nearby wineries, it’s time to make plans. Lucky for us, the Texas Hill Country is the second largest viticultural district in the country, so there are lots of winery choices, many more than I have room here to tell you about.

One of my favorites nearby is the Wine Road 290 off I-10 near Fredericksburg. There are about nine wineries on the trail to choose from.

Becker Vineyards is probably the most well-known, and deservedly so. Dr. Becker and his wife, Bunny, are well respected for their award-winning wines. Plus, the winery is delightful, and their new tasting room is beautiful.

Others to check out along the trail:
- Chisholm Trail Winery
- Fredericksburg Winery
- Grape Creek Vineyard
- Pedernales Cellars
- Rancho Ponte Vineyard
- Texas Hills Vineyard
- Torre di Pietra
- Woodrose Winery
For a link to more info on these wineries head to www.wineroad290.com

Another nice wine trail that makes an easy day trip from SA starts on Hwy 46 just east of US 281 and west of I-35 at Dry Comal Creek Vineyards. While you sample their wines, ask to try their incredible crackers too.

Continue on from Dry Comal Creek out I-35 then head west to the award-winning Driftwood Estate Winery (www.driftwoodvineyards.com). Driftwood recently won eight medals in the Lone Star International Wine Competition — a double gold for their Reserve Cab. Driftwood also has an incredible view of the Hill Country.

To wrap up your day, make the five mile drive from Driftwood to Mandola Estate Winery (www.mandolawines.com). Damian Mandola is not only an incredible chef with an impressive culinary resume, but he’s also host of a beautiful winery with a wonderful restaurant. You’ll want to have dinner there.

For more info on Texas Wine Trails head to GoTexanWine.org and click on Find Texas Wines & Wineries. And if you want more information on wine and great recipes from some of the top area chefs, Visit www.goodtastewithtanji.com

Happy Wine Trails Everyone!