An old adage in the wine business goes something like, "If you want to make a million dollars in the winery business, start with 10 million." Retreat Hill Winery was always in the master plan, but the winery was planned for 3-5 years after the vineyard was planted.

Another old adage says, "Be careful what you wish for." Back in August 2008, Billy happened by the Lehm Berg Winery in Giddings to visit. During his visit, he mentioned to owner, Carl Droemer that a winery was planned at Retreat Hill Vineyard. Carl indicated that he might have a couple of spare tanks to sell in December 2008, if Billy was interested.

At the end of December 2008, with vineyard planning and construction in full gear, Billy received a phone call from Mr. Droemer. He wanted to know if Billy was serious about opening a winery and if so, would he consider buying Lehm Berg Winery. Without hesitation, Billy said, "Absolutely!" On January 3rd, 2009, Carl and Billy shook hands on the deal. With that handshake, Billy wrote a business plan and started the winery permitting process. It took a few months to arrange for financing, get the required Federal and State winery permits, but on May 02, 2009, money changed hands and the first of winery equipment was moved from Lehm Berg Winery to Retreat Hill Winery.

On August 1st, 2009, Retreat Hill Winery opened to the public for tastings and tours on Saturday and Sunday. An existing RV building was converted into the tasting room and wine production area, so visitors to Retreat Hill Winery & Vineyard are greeted by a very cool, 60 degree room when they step through the reclaimed 100-year-old door. The winery currently has an operating capacity of about 3000 gallons, which is about 1250 cases at any given time.

How about this view from our new picnic porch that serves as our crush pad during harvest?