Vineyard

Stan and Peggy McGinley had long dreamed of having a vineyard, and bought acreage in Walker County, Texas with that very dream in mind. It took shape in 2009 with the planting of Blanc du Bois and Lenoir (aka Black Spanish) grapes, and has expanded over the years to the 15 acres of planted grapes that West Sandy Creek Winery has today. This has resulted in a stunning vineyard in Richards, Texas, just outside of Huntsville. (See how to find us here.)

The vineyards were developed in partnership with the Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Program to make best use of the sandy loam soil and the unique elevation changes of this beautiful property, which boasts the second highest point in Walker County, known as Blue Bonnet Hill. The vineyard is equipped with an inline drip irrigation system, which allows us to drip in not only water, but also other nutrients directly to each plant.

Now one of the largest vineyards in the Texas Gulf Coast region, West Sandy Creek Winery includes Blanc du Bois and Lenoir grapes, chosen for their resistance to Pierce’s disease, a common vineyard problem that is made worse by the south Texas climate. In addition, we are adding Lomanto and Errante Noir plantings to our vineyards to meet increased demand for red wines.

The grapes are harvested once a year, usually in early July, all by family, friends, and staff. They are then used to produce the award-winning wines found at our winery!

The tasting room is open Thursday through Sunday, and you can order wine for shipment on our SHOP page. Contact us at info@WSCWinery.com for more information.

Vineyard FAQs

Why does West Sandy Creek Winery grow Blanc du Bois and Lenoir grapes?

West Sandy Creek Winery grows Blanc du Bois and Lenoir because both varieties are well suited to the Texas climate and resistant to Pierce’s disease, a common vineyard problem in warmer regions. The vineyard was developed in partnership with Texas A&M AgriLife to make the best use of the property’s soil and growing conditions.

When are grapes harvested at West Sandy Creek Winery?

Grapes at West Sandy Creek Winery are harvested once a year, usually in early July, by family, friends, and staff. The grapes are then used to produce wines made at the winery.

Can visitors explore the vineyard at West Sandy Creek Winery?

Yes. Visitors can explore the property on a self-guided walk that includes the vineyard, animal enclosures, and areas around the tasting room. Guided vineyard tours may also be available. Contact West Sandy Creek Winery to learn more about guided tour availability.

About Us

West Sandy Creek Winery is a 360-acre ranch at the edge of the Sam Houston National Forest near Huntsville, Texas. We are a family-owned and operated business, founded on our decades-long love of wine and winemaking. Our property features the vineyards where we grow our own grapes, the winery and tasting room where we make our award-winning wines, events like live music and bingo nights, ample space for weddings and corporate functions, unique winery cabins, and plenty of room for the animals that call the ranch home.