Often, when exploring Texas Hill Country wineries, there is a spark that resonates within a sommelier’s arena. In the case of Whatley Wines, there’s a unique personality of gratitude that proudly shines brightly at the forefront. It’s that spiritual gratitude we all need to explore as we approach Thanksgiving and the upcoming holiday season.
Whatley Wines, a family-owned winery, is young in essence yet finding its mark by creating high-scoring, micro-production Texan wines. It doubles down with a Texas-Alabama style of hospitality curated by the owners Tyler and Melissa Whatley.
Tyler Whatley, a true Texan, stands tall and represents sincere Texas grit, reflecting an honest hard-working mentality, yet with a finesse of kindness. His wife, Melissa, hails from the lovely southern charm of her Alabama roots. She has a spellbinding personality, eminently focused within family gatherings.
They galvanized each other with a strong spiritual background to push gratitude and well-being. Together, they have crafted an utterly perfect balance to create unique food and wine experiences at Whatley Wines.
“Our passion is that a glass of wine is something with meaning, something you enjoy as you are making memories and writing the unforgettable stories of your life,” Tyler Whatley shared about the wine experiences they aim for. “We strive to be hands-on owners, creating personal experiences during your visit that enhance that vision.”
The old 1860 German homestead is hosted by Melissa Whatley, who explores new holiday food and wine “flight” pairings that she personally creates in the kitchen tasting room.
Each pairing reflects family recipes and is made by scratch, making a visit feel like a lovely family gathering. Favorites include an oven-baked cornbread laced with cranberries and goat cheese. One might be pleasantly surprised to learn that they will be taking holiday orders for Thanksgiving parties of this purely entrancing dish.
“We are very thankful for the opportunity to welcome new friends to join our table to enjoy our wines and pairings with us, and also, to be building life as a family in this wonderful community,” said Melissa invitingly. “We are committed to standing in our faith, honoring the land, buildings and stories we inherited while adding our own. Join us this season and add your stories to our Blessings tree.”
This tasting room, guesthouse B&B and vineyard, located just a few minutes from downtown Fredericksburg on North US Highway 87, showcases a magic of pure enticement, always striving to be welcoming.
Each space has history and refined elegance surrounded by perfect family-inspired hospitality. Whatley Wines is certainly a must-visit destination to explore in Fredericksburg, Texas.
Recommended wines:
White – 2023 Semillon “Triple D Vineyard” Texas High Plains.
An absolute zenith of a wine with high-toned energy surrounded by layers of zingy acidity yet caressed with citrus and honey aromas. This wine has Grace Kelly elegance, offering sensational balance and texture. Definitely on point for Semillon as a grape varietal.
$33 per bottle / $11 glass.
Red - 2022 Cabernet Franc “Vingo Vineyard” Texas High Plains.
A tapestry of powerful black fruit flavors that spar with your palate. Imagine yourself engulfed within a diversity of aromatics intertwined with seamless perfection. It hits your senses harder than Mike Tyson in his prime, yet perfectly balanced throughout.
$54 per bottle / $18 glass
When visiting Whatley Wines explore all the experiences they offer online. Be sure to do a vineyard tour with the owner, followed by a food & wine educational tasting.
By-the-glass and bottles are available at Whatley Wines with on-site kitchen crafting curated bites. Wine club membership is also offered. The property often features special events, live music, and pets are welcome in the courtyard.
Hours of operation:
Wednesday to Saturday – 11 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.
Whatley Wines is located at:
4076 North Highway 87, Fredericksburg, Texas 78624
Contact Whatley Wines at 830-444-4779, or by email at:
concierge@whatleywines.com
Andre Boada is a sommelier & founder of VinoCadre.
"Our passion is that a glass of wine is something with meaning..." - Tyler Whatley