Slate Mill Wine Collective was evolved from a boutique, family operated, winery called 1851 Vineyards. The 1851 brand is a celebration of the unstoppable maverick spirit for which Texas is known. Produced by Winemaker, Joshua Fritsche and the Slate Mill cellar team, this continues to be our featured in-house brand.
Winemaker and Sommelier Rae Wilson began her career working in the cellar with several of Texas’ top wineries before beginning her brand Wine for the People which produces wines under the names Dandy Wines and The Growers Project. While offering wine education and consultation, she realized the vast potential of the Texas terroir and began her education as a grape grower and winemaker. She resides in Austin and you can find more about her products at: Wineforthepeople.com
Winemaker Josh Fritsche began working in the Texas wine industry nearly a decade ago. Working his way through the ranks from cellar rat, assistant winemaker to winemaker he joined the Slate Mill winemaking team in April of 2019. His personal label Tatum Cellars, named for his daughter, was launched to extraordinary critical and consumer acclaim and continues to establish itself as a leader in the Texas wine industry.
Randy Hester, a Texas native, began his winemaking education studying in many of Napa Valleys’ finest facilities. His sister brand, Lightning Wines, is produced in Napa using California fruit while C.L. Butaud remains his sole Texas label grown and produced in Texas. The namesake C.L. Butaud pays homage to grandfather along with his retail friendly label ‘Papa Frenchy’. Learn more at: CLbutaud.com
La Bonne Vie Ranch lies nestled on 200 acres of pristine Texas Hill Country beauty just a short drive from downtown Fredericksburg, TX. The unspoiled pastoral property features vineyards, a tranquil stream and majestic views. The Ranch blends the rustic environment with luxury facilities fit for a formal wedding or corporate retreat. The privacy and scenic Hill Country setting perfected within this ecological sanctuary provides lavish entertaining for your guests and family.
Coming Soon! Located on the Lone Star state’s own ‘wine road’ Hwy 290, a 25 mile stretch of the nation’s 2nd most traveled wine region. We are eager to unveil a premier winery and estate vineyard in 2021 featuring a state-of-the-art winemaking facility. Our spacious tasting room will delight wine enthusiasts of all levels and provide an inviting, relaxed atmosphere. You won’t want to miss a visit to our cellar caves for an unprecedented hill country tasting experience.