Texas, Wine And Luxury Homes
While many areas in the United States are battered by the recession, Texas and the Texas real estate market have not felt the devastation of its neighbors. Home sales were 36 percent higher in 2009 than in 2009, according to Texas Ahead, an agency which measures economic conditions across the state. Buyers include those in the market for Texas luxury homes. The wine industry has also seen tremendous growth in the last decade, even though the two may not go hand in hand. This revitalization of Texas’ viticulture has sparked new interest in the state.
Texas and wine?
The two are not as strange of a combination as one would think. Franciscan priests grew their own vines in the 16th century. While Californians were still rushing for gold, Texans were planting grapes along the streams and rivers. Val Verde Winery in Del Rio has been operating since 1833. During the 19th century, the El Paso area was where Texans came for wine.
Flash forward to 21st century and Texas is once again becoming a premiere spot for winemaking. From 2000 to 2007, the number of Texas wineries grew from 40 to 140.
Wine is a symbol of prestige and the presence of great wineries in the Texas area has led to the increase in luxury home sales in Texas. Wine cellars are a must-have in prestigious homes. The increase in wineries has led wine-lovers across the nation to consider Texas as their choice for a primary residence or a second home. A few hope to grow their own grapes and fulfill a life-long dream of making their own wine.
The homes are as unique as the communities. Houston, the fourth largest city in the United States, is a vibrant community with arts, culture and a thriving business community. Austin is known for its music. And sports fans love the Dallas Cowboys—a football legend. The luxury homes in Texas are as diverse as the state. Vaulted cathedral ceilings and travertine tile accessories adorn homes offered in exclusive neighborhoods in Austin. The locales range from exclusive neighborhoods with large lots to homes located near private country clubs.
With winemaking increasing in Texas, many wine tastings are held in these luxury homes to sample the local fare. Exclusive restaurants offer residents the best samplings from area winemakers. The state of Texas has devoted a website to help residents and visitors know more about the viticulture (www.gotexanwine.org).
The Future of Winemaking
Some sources such as www.foodeditorials.com say Texas is the fifth largest producer of wine in the United States. Texas ranks sixth in the number of wineries in the state by www.wineamerica.org. What is not disputed is the growth of the wine industry in Texas. Growers, wine aficionados, and those who want to absorb the culture will be occupying Texas homes as a result of the growth. The viticulture in Texas is predicted by some to become as prominent as it is in California.
