Calais Winery: A Taste of France in the Heart of Texas [Review]

If you are looking for a unique and memorable wine tasting experience in the Lone Star State, you might want to check out Calais Winery in Hye, Texas. This boutique winery is owned and operated by Benjamin Calais, a French winemaker who crafts high quality Texas wines in the French style. In this review, I will share with you some of the highlights of my visit to Calais Winery, and why I think it is worth a trip.

What was the cost?

The cost of the wine tasting at Calais Winery is $25 per person, which includes a guided tour of the winery and the cave where the wines are aged, as well as a tasting of six wines. You can also purchase bottles of wine to take home, ranging from $30 to $75. The winery accepts cash and credit cards.

What are 3 reasons to visit?

There are many reasons to visit Calais Winery, but here are my top three:

• The wines: The wines at Calais Winery are exceptional, using only Texas grapes from the best vineyards in the state. You can taste the passion and expertise of the winemaker in every sip, as he blends traditional and innovative techniques to create complex and balanced wines. Some of the wines you can taste include Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Viognier, and Roussanne.
• The winemaker: Benjamin Calais is not only a talented winemaker, but also a friendly and knowledgeable host. He will personally guide you through the winery and the cave, and share with you the story behind each wine, as well as the challenges and rewards of making wine in Texas. He is also happy to answer any questions you might have, and give you tips on how to enjoy his wines at their best.
• The atmosphere: Calais Winery is a cozy and intimate place, where you can relax and enjoy the scenic views of the Hill Country. The winery is located in a historic building that dates back to 1905, and has been restored and modernized to accommodate the winemaking facilities. The cave, which is underground, is a cool and quiet spot, where you can admire the barrels and bottles of wine, and feel the magic of the aging process.

Is it worth visiting?

In my opinion, Calais Winery is definitely worth visiting, especially if you are a wine lover or a curious traveler. You will not only get to taste some of the best wines in Texas, but also learn more about the art and science of winemaking, and meet a charming and inspiring winemaker. Calais Winery is a hidden gem in the Hill Country, and a must-see destination for anyone who appreciates quality, authenticity, and beauty.

When’s the best time of day to go?

Calais Winery is open on Friday, Saturday, and Sunday, from 12:00 PM to 5:00 PM on Friday and Sunday, and from 11:00 AM to 6:00 PM on Saturday. You can book your wine tasting online, or walk in if there is availability. I recommend going in the afternoon, when the sun is shining and the temperature is pleasant. You can also combine your visit to Calais Winery with other nearby attractions, such as Garrison Brothers Distillery, Hye Market, or Silver Dollar Winery.