Becoming an Advocate Member of Texas Wine Growers

Blog contributed by John Rivenburgh, Rivenburgh Wines

Hi, I’m John Rivenburgh. I am the President of Texas Wine Growers and I’ve been a wine grape grower, and a winemaker for almost 2 decades in Texas and a firm believer in 100% Texas wine production. 

I have seen this industry grow and evolve into the strong and vibrant industry that it is. It is full of great producers, leaders, and even some characters. Being one of those characters and watching the Texas wine industry through the lens of presidency, I have noticed the Texas grown wine industry seems to be having a strong reemergence among many operators, who didn’t deem it important in the past. This movement has made advocating for Texas wine more important because there are others like me who own a business, who help others, who make great wine and who have families and employees to take care of. Supporting Texas 100% wine supports those people. I am excited to take some time to discuss our advocacy program and why it is advantageous to be an advocate member of the Texas Wine Growers organization. 

When it comes to wine production, Texas stands out as a unique and vibrant region. 

• Climate and Terroir: Texas has a diverse climate and geology that greatly influence wine production. The state experiences a wide range of climates, from the hot and arid conditions in the west to the more moderate and humid climates in the east. Additionally, the unique soils found in Texas, such as limestone, granite, and sandy loam, contribute to the distinct character and flavors of Texas wines. While many wine regions around the world focus on traditional grape varieties like Chardonnay, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Pinot Noir, Texas embraces a broader range of grape varietals. In addition to these, Texas winemakers also cultivate grapes such as Tempranillo, Sangiovese, Viognier, and Mourvèdre, among others. This diversity of grape varieties and the unique soils found in Texas, such as limestone, granite, and sandy loam, contribute to the distinct character and flavors of Texas wines.  
• Innovative Winemaking Techniques: Texas winemakers are known for their innovative spirit and willingness to experiment with winemaking techniques. They are constantly pushing the boundaries and exploring new methods to maximize the potential of Texas-grown grapes. This includes techniques such as micro-oxygenation, extended maceration, and aging in different types of oak barrels. These innovative approaches contribute to the development of distinct and exceptional Texas wines.
• Sustainable Practices: Many Texas wineries prioritize sustainable and environmentally friendly practices in their vineyards and winemaking processes. Due to the state’s often challenging climate conditions, including periods of drought, wineries have implemented water conservation techniques, organic farming methods, and energy-efficient practices. These sustainable efforts not only help protect the environment but also contribute to the overall quality and integrity of Texas wines.
• Sense of Community: The Texas wine industry is recognized for its strong sense of community and collaboration. Winemakers, grape growers, and industry professionals often come together to support and promote each other’s businesses. This cooperative spirit fosters a welcoming and inclusive environment where knowledge sharing and mutual support thrive. The sense of community in Texas wine production sets it apart and creates a unique experience for both producers and consumers.

By becoming an advocate member, you actively contribute to the growth and development of the Texas grown wine industry. The Texas Wine Growers play a vital role in advocating for the interests of wineries, vineyards, and grape growers across the state. Your membership helps support their efforts to promote the Texas wine industry, ensuring its sustainability and success.

As an advocate member, you gain access to a wealth of knowledge and networking opportunities. The Texas Wine Growers hosts educational events that provide valuable insights into the world of wine production, grape cultivation, and wine tasting. These events also offer an excellent platform to connect with industry professionals, winemakers, grape growers, and fellow wine enthusiasts.

Membership in the Texas Wine Growers ensures that you stay up to date with the latest news, developments, and trends in the Texas wine industry. You will receive regular newsletters, updates, and industry reports that keep you informed about new wine releases, vineyard events, legislative changes, and other relevant information. This knowledge empowers you to make informed decisions and stay ahead of the curve.

As an advocate member, you have the opportunity to actively participate in advocating for the Texas wine industry. The Texas Wine Growers represents its members’ interests through legislative advocacy, policy initiatives, and public outreach. By joining forces with other passionate individuals, you can contribute to the ongoing efforts to protect and promote the Texas grown wine industry at local, state, and national levels.

Embrace the advantages of being an advocate member and join the community of Texas wine lovers working towards a vibrant and thriving wine industry. Cheers to the joys of being part of the Texas Wine Growers!

Drink Texas, Texas

To explore membership in Texas Wine Growers, see our website at BE A TEXAS WINE ADVOCATE – Texas Wine Growers