Fredericksburg, December 15, 2025
Llano Estacado Winery, Texas’ largest and second-oldest winery, will invest $3 million for expansion, including a new tasting room and a state-of-the-art winery in Fredericksburg, set to open in 2026. This growth includes additional facilities in Lubbock and enhanced distribution channels. The new leadership aims to advance the winery’s legacy and strengthen its presence in Texas’ wine culture.
Fredericksburg, Texas
Llano Estacado Winery, Texas’ largest and second-oldest winery, is investing $3 million to expand into the Hill Country region, with plans for a new tasting room in downtown Fredericksburg and a state-of-the-art winery set to open in 2026.
Expansion Details
The expansion includes:
- New Tasting Room: Located on Main Street in Fredericksburg, scheduled to open later this year.
- Full-Scale Winery: A state-of-the-art facility planned for 2026.
- Additional Tasting Room: Opening in Lubbock, along with expanded hospitality space at the existing West Texas location.
- Distribution Growth: Broader distribution channels for their fine wine collection.
Leadership and Vision
The winery’s new investors include Lubbock attorneys Kevin Glasheen and Noe Valles, wine enthusiast Ron Ross, retired business executive Bryan Miller, business consultant Aaron Handler, and Bret Perrenoud. Handler will serve as CEO, while Perrenoud, former general manager of Becker Vineyards and owner of Airis’Ele Winery near Fredericksburg, will guide Llano’s growth strategy as both an owner and general manager. This leadership team is focused on building upon Llano Estacado’s legacy, capitalizing on the winery’s strong history, extensive distribution network, and status as the largest winemaking facility in Texas.
Background
Founded in 1976, Llano Estacado Winery is celebrated for its accessible selection of wines, particularly its Sweet Red. This expansion into Fredericksburg symbolizes a pivotal moment for the winery, as it brings its longstanding expertise directly into the heart of Texas’ vibrant wine culture.
Related Developments in Fredericksburg
Fredericksburg is witnessing a renaissance in wine-related ventures, with significant projects emerging such as:
- Puerta Del Lobo: A 220-acre luxury neighborhood project offering 90 homes with private vineyards, aimed at wine enthusiasts looking to own a vineyard without the demands of extensive land management. This development is currently in pre-development stages and presales have already begun.
- William Chris Vineyards: Located in Hye, near Fredericksburg, this winery earned a spot ranked No. 31 in the internationally acclaimed World’s 50 Best Vineyards List—making it the first Texas winery to achieve this recognition.
These undertakings highlight Fredericksburg’s escalating prominence in the wine industry, drawing both investment and acclaim from wine connoisseurs around the world.
FAQ
What is Llano Estacado Winery’s expansion plan in Fredericksburg?
Llano Estacado Winery is investing $3 million to establish a new tasting room on Main Street in Fredericksburg, set to open later this year, and a state-of-the-art winery scheduled for 2026. Additionally, they plan to open a tasting room in Lubbock and expand their hospitality space at their West Texas location.
Who are the new investors in Llano Estacado Winery?
The new investors include Lubbock attorneys Kevin Glasheen and Noe Valles, wine enthusiast Ron Ross, retired business executive Bryan Miller, business consultant Aaron Handler, and Bret Perrenoud. Aaron Handler will serve as CEO, and Bret Perrenoud will guide the winery’s growth strategy as both an owner and general manager.
What is the significance of William Chris Vineyards’ ranking?
William Chris Vineyards, located in Hye near Fredericksburg, was ranked No. 31 in the prestigious World’s 50 Best Vineyards List, marking the first time a Texas winery has been included in this international ranking.
Key Features of Llano Estacado Winery’s Expansion
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Investment Amount | $3 million |
| New Tasting Room Location | Main Street, Fredericksburg, opening later this year |
| Full-Scale Winery Opening | 2026 |
| Additional Tasting Room | Lubbock |
| Expansion of Hospitality Space | West Texas location |
| Distribution Growth | Broader channels for fine wine collection |
| New CEO | Aaron Handler |
| Growth Strategy Guide | Bret Perrenoud |
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