When it comes to wine, most people think of places like Napa Valley or Bordeaux, but did you know that Harris County, Texas has a rich history of winemaking? Located in the southeastern part of the state, Harris County may not be the first place that comes to mind when thinking about wine production, but it has a long and fascinating history in the industry.
The Beginnings of Winemaking in Harris County
The history of winemaking in Harris County dates back to the 1800s when German and Italian immigrants settled in the area. These immigrants brought with them their knowledge and expertise in winemaking, and soon, vineyards began popping up all over the county. The warm climate and fertile soil made it an ideal location for growing grapes. One of the first wineries in Harris County was established in 1851 by a German immigrant named Johann Andreas Bremer. He planted grapevines on his land and produced wine that was sold locally.Other wineries soon followed suit, and by the late 1800s, Harris County was known for its thriving wine industry.
The Impact of Prohibition
Unfortunately, the success of the wine industry in Harris County was short-lived. In 1919, Prohibition went into effect, making it illegal to produce or sell alcohol. This dealt a major blow to the wineries in Harris County, and many were forced to shut down. Some winemakers turned to producing grape juice or other non-alcoholic products to stay afloat, but it wasn't until Prohibition was repealed in 1933 that the wine industry in Harris County could truly thrive again.The Revival of Winemaking in Harris County
After Prohibition, the wine industry in Harris County slowly began to pick back up.However, it wasn't until the 1970s that it experienced a true revival. This was due in part to the efforts of a group of winemakers who formed the Texas Wine and Grape Growers Association. They worked to promote and support the local wine industry, and their efforts paid off. Today, there are over 50 wineries in Harris County, producing a wide variety of wines from different grape varietals. The warm climate and diverse soil types in the county make it an ideal location for growing grapes, and winemakers have embraced this, experimenting with different techniques and grape varieties to create unique and delicious wines.
Exploring the Wineries of Harris County
If you're interested in learning more about the history of winemaking in Harris County, there's no better way than by going on a wine tour.These tours allow you to visit different wineries, learn about their history and production processes, and of course, sample some of their wines. One popular wine tour in Harris County is the Houston Wine Tour, which takes you to three different wineries in the area. You'll get to taste a variety of wines, from crisp whites to bold reds, and learn about the unique characteristics of each one. The tour also includes a delicious lunch at one of the wineries, giving you a chance to relax and enjoy the beautiful surroundings. Another great option is the Cypress Wine Trail Tour, which takes you through some of the most scenic areas of Harris County. You'll visit four different wineries, each with its own unique charm and history.
Along the way, you'll learn about the different grape varietals grown in the area and how they contribute to the wines' flavors. The tour also includes a stop at a local cheese shop, where you can sample some delicious cheeses that pair perfectly with wine.