Texas Grape Camp Showcases State's Wine Industry in Lubbock

LUBBOCK, TX — The Texas Wine & Grape Growers Association is hosting its annual Grape Camp conference on Oct. 8 and 9 at the Overton Hotel & Conference Center and Reddy Vineyards.

The two-day event will kick off on Tuesday, Oct. 8, from 7 a.m. to 9 p.m. and continue Wednesday, Oct. 9, from 9 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.

According to their website, this year's conference will bring together winemakers, grape growers, and vendors from across the state, showcasing the Texas High Plains in Texas's wine industry. As the second-largest American Viticultural Area in Texas, the Texas High Plains is a significant foundation for the state's burgeoning wine scene.

John Matthews, the TWGGA 2024 President and owner of Cassaro Winery and Vineyard in Ovilla, showed his enthusiasm for hosting this year's event in Lubbock, stating, “Because the Texas Panhandle produces more than 80 percent of wine grapes grown in Texas, Lubbock is the perfect backdrop for Grape Camp.”

“We hope attendees are able to grow their industry knowledge and their professional network, as well as build their understanding of the Texas wine industry’s impact on the state and the broader global wine industry,” Matthews stated.

Grape Camp began as a platform for wine professionals to reflect on the recent harvest, discuss successes, address challenges, and collaboratively plan for the future. This year’s conference will include a variety of networking and educational opportunities for newcomers and seasoned veterans in the industry. 

The event will include a reception featuring wines from TWGGA’s 41st annual Lone Star International Wine Competition and a field excursion to Reddy Vineyards in Brownfield, Texas, led by CEO Akhil Reddy. The excursion will offer insights into vineyard operations.

Attendees can also purchase tickets for the annual wine dinner at Llano Estacado Winery in Lubbock, featuring a reception and interactive roundtable discussion. 

For more information and to view admission rates, visit TWGGA’s website.