10 Texas-Grown Wine Varietals You Need to Know
Texas wines are as bold, diverse, and surprising as the state itself. With its wide-ranging climates—from the arid High Plains to the lush Gulf Coast—Texas has proven ideal for cultivating a variety of wine grapes. But Texas isn’t trying to replicate Napa or Bordeaux. Instead, it’s carving its own path by embracing grapes that thrive in the heat and tell a uniquely Texan story.
Here are 10 of the most important Texas-grown wine varietals to know if you're exploring Lone Star wine country. Whether you're new to Texas wines or a seasoned taster, these grapes should be on your radar—and in your glass.
Tempranillo
Often called the 'backbone' of Texas red wine, Tempranillo is originally from Spain and thrives in the state’s hot, dry conditions—especially in the Texas High Plains and Hill Country. It produces medium to full-bodied reds with dark fruit, leather, and earthy notes. A perfect match for BBQ ribs or smoky brisket.
Viognier
This floral white grape has become a Texas signature. Known for its lush aromatics—peach, honeysuckle, and citrus blossom—Viognier grows well in the Hill Country and High Plains. Served chilled, it's a refreshing yet elegant companion for grilled seafood or chicken.
Mourvèdre
A red grape that loves the Texas heat, Mourvèdre brings depth and spice to blends and single-varietal wines alike. Expect flavors of black cherry, game, and herbs. Often found in Rhône-style blends, it's especially successful in the High Plains.
Tannat
Known for its high tannin levels and aging potential, Tannat has become a rising star in Texas. It yields bold, structured wines with notes of plum, dark chocolate, and tobacco. This powerhouse red pairs beautifully with hearty meats and strong cheeses.
Sangiovese
Originally from Italy, this grape is gaining traction in Texas for its light to medium body, bright acidity, and cherry-driven flavors. Sangiovese is food-friendly and approachable, ideal for pizza night or charcuterie boards.
Blanc du Bois
This hybrid grape was designed for hot, humid climates and performs exceptionally well along the Texas Gulf Coast. Blanc du Bois makes crisp, light-bodied white wines with citrus and tropical fruit notes. Often crafted in dry or semi-sweet styles, it’s perfect for patio sipping.
Aglianico
A bold Italian red grape that’s relatively new to Texas but showing huge promise. Aglianico thrives in sun-drenched, arid regions and produces wines with firm tannins and notes of dark fruit, leather, and spice. Look for small-batch producers in the High Plains.
Roussanne
A white Rhône varietal that excels in the High Plains, Roussanne delivers rich texture with flavors of pear, honey, and herbal tea. Often blended with Viognier or Marsanne, it’s a great choice for lovers of complex, age-worthy whites.
Grenache
This red grape is a Rhône staple finding a happy home in Texas. Known for its red fruit flavors and subtle spice, Grenache is often used in blends but increasingly appears solo. It thrives in the High Plains and shows balance, ripeness, and surprising finesse.
Petite Sirah
Known for deep color and intense fruit, Petite Sirah is gaining a following among Texas winemakers for its bold expression and ageability. Look for blackberries, pepper, and hints of cocoa. It’s a go-to for big red lovers seeking something new and deeply Texan.
Tips for Tasting Texas-Grown Varietals
• Ask the tasting room staff which grapes are estate-grown versus sourced from other regions of Texas.
• Look for single-varietal bottlings to get to know the grape’s personality.
• Try side-by-side tastings: for example, compare a Hill Country Viognier with a High Plains Viognier.
• Don’t overlook blends—many of these grapes are used together to highlight the best of each.
Final Sip
Texas wine is defined by adaptation, innovation, and pride in local terroir. These 10 varietals represent the state’s growing maturity and diversity as a wine region. Whether you’re into bold reds, aromatic whites, or refreshing hybrids, there’s a Texas-grown grape waiting to surprise you.
Start with these varietals, explore a few tastings, and before you know it, you’ll be speaking fluent Texas wine.
