#United States #Texas Hill Country #Boerne #Missick Cellars #Viognier

Missick Cellars: A New Chapter in Texas Winemaking

The world of wine is diverse and ever-evolving, and at the forefront of this change is Missick Cellars, based in the picturesque Texas Hill Country. Recently, the winery gained significant recognition at the 2026 San Francisco Chronicle Wine Competition (SFCWC), where it evaluated a staggering 5,500 wines from across North America. The highlight of their achievements? Earning the Best in Class title for their exquisite 2024 Texas High Plains Viognier, a remarkable feat that encapsulates their commitment to quality.

Chris Missick, the winery’s winemaker and a seasoned veteran in the industry, shared insights regarding their relocation from New York's Finger Lakes to Texas. “We decided to uproot our lives to Texas because of its unparalleled beauty, coupled with the plethora of growers and producers present here. The economic potential of the state is also immense,” he commented. This move wasn’t merely geographical; it represented a new vision for the Missick family, marrying their rich winemaking heritage with the vibrant terroir of Texas.

Chris Missick brings with him a wealth of experience, propelling Missick Cellars into the spotlight of the winemaking community. Having accumulated numerous 90+ point scores from distinguished international wine critics, the winery is rapidly establishing itself as a key player in the Texas wine scene. Their 2023 Texas Dry Riesling was previously awarded Double Gold in the 2025 SFCWC, showcasing the consistent excellence of their offerings.

In a landscape where tradition and innovation intertwine, Missick expressed excitement over the public interest in their wines. “The response to our wines has been very encouraging,” he stated, highlighting that they are currently bottling their collection of 2023 red wines. Drawing comparisons to his earlier ventures in the Finger Lakes, Missick emphasized, “While I thoroughly enjoyed producing red wines there, the varied climates and the altitude options in Texas present an incredible array of possibilities for viticulture.” The allure of Texas lies not only in its adaptability but also in the unique and diverse varietals it hosts.

Missick Cellars is poised to offer an extensive portfolio, which will include Gruner Veltliner, Picpoul Blanc, Mourvèdre, Petite Sirah, and Cabernet Sauvignon among others. Each wine encapsulates the essence of Texas Hill Country, a region known for its rolling landscapes and rich agricultural heritage.

Chris Missick's journey as a winemaker is an inspiring narrative; beyond his oenological pursuits, he is also a published author, an Army veteran who served in Operation Iraqi Freedom, and an attorney. In 2011, seeking to push boundaries in the American wine landscape, the Missick family acquired a small winery in the Finger Lakes. It was a venture marked by respect for deep-rooted viticulture but served as a stepping stone to their true ambition — establishing a winery in Texas.

Looking ahead, Missick Cellars is eagerly preparing for the opening of their tasting room at 941 N. School Street, Boerne, projected to welcome visitors in Spring 2026. This venue will allow wine enthusiasts to explore and indulge in the innovative creations of Missick Cellars, further deepening the connection between wine lovers and the expansive offerings of Texas wine country.

As the winery continues to grow, so too does the legacy of the Missick family in their pursuit of excellence. With a new chapter unfolding in Texas, Missick Cellars stands ready to leave an indelible mark on the North American wine scene, proudly representing the heart and soul of Texas Hill Country.