The first time I went to Texas Hill Country as a wine destination was about 15 years ago. It was akin to visiting a small farm, and I left without bothering to dream of what it could become. If this story were made into a romantic comedy, a montage would now begin of Texas wine […]
Try Your Wine Before You Buy at Utopian Shift in Austin
Do you ever go on a wine-buying mission and find yourself standing in front of the shelves, frozen with indecision? In these moments, the options are usually to phone a friend, decide based on the appeal of the label, or just turn around, defeated by the despair of indecision. Note: The Austinot does not recommend […]
Savor the Flavors of Argentina at El Gaucho Winery
Head out in any direction from Austin and you’re bound to come across a winery. In Spicewood, you’ll find El Gaucho Winery–a little piece of Argentina tucked away in the rolling hills near Lake Travis. Check it out the next time you’re looking to kick back in the Texas Hill Country, sip on full-bodied Argentinian […]
How to Rosé All Day in Austin
Rosé has definitely become a thing across the country. Popular hashtags such as #roseallday and #yeswayrose are rampant on social media and come printed on just about everything, from t-shirts and tote bags, to wine glasses and smartphone cases. Fortunately for us, Austin has not escaped the trend. Whether you want to go out, stay […]
Be Transported to Roaring Twenties at Parker Jazz Club in Downtown Austin
Step back in time to the Roaring Twenties at Parker Jazz Club in downtown Austin. Situated underground like all the coolest clubs, Parker Jazz Club acts as an incubator for the music and the sensibility of another era. Set your sights on a whole new music experience, complemented by classic cocktails and a sultry aura. […]
Roll Out the Barrel: Notable Texas Wineries Worth Visiting
When I sent in my RSVP for the annual Roll Out the Barrel event, I was signing up for three winery visits in one day. Although I wasn’t exactly sure what I was getting into, certified sommelier Matt McGinnis clued me in. Roll Out the Barrel is a Texas take on the time-honored tradition of […]
Indulge in Fine Wine and Local Food at Big Reds & Bubbles
Cheers! Austin’s most anticipated and absolutely fabulous wine event, Big Reds & Bubbles, is right around the corner. This annual celebration of red and sparkling wine, put on by Wine and Food Foundation of Texas, goes down on Nov. 17, 2017, at The Driskill Hotel. Local chefs will be making food on site; live music will […]
That’s Not All! The Yard Overflows With Cool Hangouts in South Austin
The Yard, Austin’s home to the next generation of local movers, shakers, and—above all—makers, makes the quick trip south of Ben White worth it. Whether you crave high quality coffee, award-winning wine, a place for your band to jam, or a beach volleyball haven, you’ll find what you want a mere 10 minutes from downtown. […]
Tasting Innovation at The Austin Winery in South Austin
Guest article by Susannah Haddad Upon arriving at The Austin Winery, it’s clear that The Yard development in South Austin is going to be big. Currently home to businesses like St. Elmo Brewery, Vuka, Spokesman Coffee, and soon Still Austin Whiskey Co., the city’s first whiskey distillery, The Yard supports local while offering plenty to do. […]
Available to Austinites Only, Dandy Rosé Is Made With All Texas Grapes
Dandy Rosé is the only wine in the world made especially for Austinites. Its creator, Rae Wilson, has even more to brag about: this Austin-exclusive rosé is made from 100 percent Texas grapes. Wilson considers her rosé, now in its fourth year of production, to be “a love letter to Austin.” The sommelier-turned-winemaker is proving to the rest of the country that […]