Wineries in Southeast Texas

Along with our growing craft beer scene, the winery scene in southeast Texas is also picking up steam with new vineyards and tasting rooms popping up to grape expectations. Whether you prefer sweet whites, fruit-forward blends, or just sipping and swirling under the Texas sun, grab a glass and cheers at these local spots. Because it’s wine o’clock somewhere.

Free State Cellars Winery

A winery on a bayou is unique unto itself, but that’s not all that makes Free State special. Named after the “Free State of Sabine,” or “No Man’s Land,” the unclaimed territory between Louisiana and Texas, each of their wines has a story tied to the rough and tumble lawlessness of the area and the subsequent tension that ensued. The family-owned business is run by five siblings, each with its own role in operations.

Located on Adams Bayou, Free State offers a sipping good time with a view. With a variety of handcrafted wines ranging from crisp whites to bold reds and bright muscadines, no matter your palette, you’re bound to discover a new favorite. Try one of their Texas select wines, including German Riesling, Spanish Tempranillo, and California Ruby Cabernet, one of their heirloom wines made with estate-grown muscadine grapes, or one of their signature sangrias in quirky, bright flavors like birthday cake. 

The winery offers tastings in the form of wine flights (catch flights, not feelings, right?). With three types of flights, including custom flights (your selection of six wines), seasonal pre-selected flights (a selection of four wines), and sangria flights, you’re in for a treat.

As good as their wines are, their homemade accouterments are also worth a visit on their own. House-made jellies, jams, and honey on the charcuterie trays (Texas-shaped boards by request) pair with the wines and are designed to pull out specific flavors from a sweet and spicy elote dip to grape jelly and sausages. Deli sandwiches, dips, and assorted sweets are also available. 

Often with live music, enjoy the breeze on the beautiful outdoor area, and relish in the magic of a perfect Texas day. Free State is family-friendly and allows furry friends to join their human companions. They also have a free wine club with exclusive events for members (just pay for your bottles and shipping) with many expansion plans in the works (think: pick-your-own farm / Airbnb on the vineyard). 

Cotton Creek Winery

In Beaumont’s very own West End, you’ll find Cotton Creek Winery nestled along Phelan Boulevard. An intimate setting that feels like you stepped right into someone’s living room or took a trip to a cute café in Europe, the boutique wine bar makes its own small batches on the premise, which you can order by the taste, glass, or bottle. A rotating selection of wines is available in fruit-forward flavors like Bayou Blackberry, Boomtown Blush, and Gulf Coast Breeze Grapefruit. Friendly staff makes this neighborhood spot a frequent haunt for most locals, especially during happy hour, which offers discount pours and wine-a-ritas.

For noshing, they serve cold plates, appetizers like fried calamari, spinach dip, and shrimp poppers, nachos, flatbread pizzas, and dessert. Keep up with their schedule as they frequently have live music and events like Wine-o Bingo. 

Bruno & George Winery

Located in Sour Lake, Bruno & George Winery pay homage to the owners’ family recipes that date back to 1889. Husband-and-wife Shawn and Misha Bruno opened this boutique winery in 2001, and they have been serving award-winning aperitif and dessert wines ever since. 

You’ll be transported to the rolling hills of Salaparuta, Sicily with every sip, and you’re bound to feel like family after meeting with the Brunos and partaking in their wine. Bruno & George Winery offers a unique tasting experience with their raisin and fruit wine. Perhaps almost as good as the wines themselves are the stories behind them.Tours & tastings are by appointment only. 

Vine 2 Wine Vineyard and Winery

Owners Clay and Stacy Rollins wanted to create high-quality wine and enjoy it with a Southeast Texas view, and for this, we thank them. Wines range from refreshing whites and full-bodied red wines to unique blends. Relax with a glass of wine while overlooking the budding grapes in the vineyard, witnessing flavors being born.

Not only does Vine 2 Wine serve up delicious wine and gorgeous views, but they also offer events such as movies in the vineyard, Botox & wine, a summer music series, and a grape stomp. You’ll be sure to be coming back often – for the wine and the company. 

Tacky Wine and Brew Tours 

Want to try them all without the stress of driving? Spend an intimate day on a Tacky Wine and Brew Tour. You’ll be chauffeured from place to place, meeting the owners, hearing their stories, and tasting the fruits of their labors (pun intended). Whether you’re embarking on the tour solo or with your best pals, you’re sure to make memories and come away with new friendships. Knowing how to swirl and sniff is not required, just an ability to uncork and un-wined.

All tours include pick-up/drop-off, transportation to and from each location, tastings, and lunch. The tour company coordinates with the wineries and breweries, so all you have to do is let your taste buds relax and enjoy the day. White wine, red wine, or beer – whichever your preference – Tacky Wine and Brew Tours is the place for lovers of fun in the sun. 

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