News Summary
Llano Estacado Winery, the largest and second-oldest winery in Texas, has new ownership eager to expand its offerings. The new investors plan to develop a boutique hotel, restaurant, and event center in Fredericksburg, as well as a new tasting room on Main Street. Under the leadership of a dynamic team, the winery aims to capitalize on the booming Hill Country wine market while addressing challenges such as changing consumer preferences and potential sales declines.
Llano Estacado Winery Welcomes New Ownership and Exciting Plans
Located in the vibrant city of Lubbock, Texas, the Llano Estacado Winery has recently undergone a significant transformation. As the largest and second-oldest winery in the Lone Star State, this beloved establishment has been acquired by a group of investors, marking the start of an exciting new chapter. While the purchase price hasn’t been disclosed, the new ownership is eager to take Llano Estacado to new heights.
From the West to the Hill Country
The new investors have their sights set on expanding the winery’s reach into the booming Hill Country region. Plans are underway to enhance the winery’s offerings by introducing more fine wines that the area is famous for. What’s even more thrilling is that they are looking to develop a boutique hotel, a restaurant, an event center, and a spacious tasting room on approximately 3.5 acres of land, conveniently located across from an H-E-B parking lot in Fredericksburg.
But that’s not all! The ownership group is also on the lookout for a new tasting room along the lively Main Street in Fredericksburg. This expansion is geared toward capitalizing on the area’s increasing popularity among wine lovers just like you!
A Dynamic New Team
Leading the charge in this new venture is a savvy team, with Kevin Glasheen, a personal injury attorney and real estate developer, at the helm. His team isn’t stopping at just the winery—they’re acquiring additional properties along Texas 290, which is well-known for its wineries. This includes a recent purchase of roughly 20 acres near the delightful Hilmy Cellars.
Embracing Growth Opportunities
The Hill Country region has experienced a staggering 625% increase in active winery permits from 2011 to 2021. This growth can be attributed to a rising population and favorable economic incentives that attract both new residents and tourists alike. Given the remarkable trajectory of this region, it’s no wonder the new owners are eager to make their mark.
After the previous ownership, which consisted of more than 100 small stockholders, many opted to sell, primarily due to aging. Now, the fresh ownership group boasts notable figures such as Noe Valles, Aaron Handler, Bret Perrenoud, Ron Ross, and Bryan Miller. Among them, Aaron Handler will take on the role of CEO while Bret Perrenoud serves as the general manager. Meanwhile, the well-respected Mark Hyman will be retiring after three decades of dedicated service as president, passing the baton to fresh leadership.
Wine Production and New Ventures
Speaking of fresh leadership, the talented winemaker Jason Centanni will remain on board, bringing with him two decades of experience. Currently, the winery distributes over 160,000 cases of wine annually, with retail sales comprising around 40% of Texas wine sales—a testament to Llano Estacado’s well-established brand.
The new owners aren’t just focusing on expansion in the Hill Country. They also plan to open a tasting room in Lubbock’s Cactus Alley shopping center and are investing in enhancing hospitality facilities at the original winery in Lubbock. The vision is to create a state-of-the-art facility that will not only serve exceptional wines but also promote tourism and support the vibrant local wine culture.
Challenges Ahead
However, it’s not all smooth sailing. There are concerns within the broader wine trade about a potential decline in sales post-pandemic, alongside the increasing impact of climate change and shifting consumer preferences toward cheaper beverages. But with a solid plan for infrastructure and innovation, Llano Estacado Winery is set to navigate these challenges head-on.
As this storied winery steps into a bright new future, local wine enthusiasts are surely eager to see what amazing experiences and delightful wines await in the years ahead. Cheers to new beginnings at Llano Estacado Winery!
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