The Scout Guide Austin

May 01, 2015

There’s something to be said about Austinites and our thirst: it’s for all things local. I mean think about it - we have our own craft beers, vodkas, gins, whiskeys, ciders and even kombucha, for cryin’ out loud! But what about wine? For years, Austin relied on the outlying Hill Country to produce some of our favorite “local” reds, whites and rosés; but if you ask me, the closer the better… right?

CUE THE AUSTIN WINERY, THE CITY’S FIRST URBAN WINERY.

The Austin Winery was founded by Ross McLauchlan and Cooper Anderson, two guys who had a specific goal to fill the aforementioned gap in Austin’s beverage market. But they didn’t want to build just any winery. Rather, they wanted to create something we can all relate to and enjoy: delicious, high-quality wines produced in an approachable, snob-free environment. Don’t think that’s possible? Just MAKE AN APPOINTMENT to tour the winery, LOCATED IN INDUSTRIAL EAST AUSTIN, and be pleasantly surprised.

The grapes used in The Austin Winery’s wines are always sourced from family-owned growers located in the best growing regions in the United States. Once in Austin, they are delicately handcrafted in small batches to create delicious, expertly balanced wines. But if the wine doesn’t get you the label artwork definitely will. Next time you’re walking through Central Market or browsing lists of Texas wines, keep a look out for some funky (but awesome) labels. Commissioned by Texas artist NIC MATHIS, The Austin Winery labels mainly portray personified animals with a surrealist touch… not something you see in the everyday wine community, huh? But- in my opinion- that’s kinda the point. Ross, Cooper and their team take an edgy yet relatable approach to providing quality wine for the everyday Austinite, while leaving behind the intimidating jargon and unreasonable prices.

Want another reason to like these guys?

The Austin Winery is partnering with EUPHORIA FEST 2015 to provide of-age attendees with a glass (or two) of wine. Now, I don’t know about you, but this is not something I would expect from winemakers in the South of France or even Napa Valley. This partnership is just so Austin; combining music, culture, community and quality. It’s things like this - plus their friendly reputation and excellent wines - that have people talking. Seek them out to see what we’re talking about. Who knows, maybe you’ll find your new favorite local beverage…

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Cooper Anderson, 29, and Ross McLauchlan, 27
Co-founders, Austin Winery

Cooper Anderson and Ross McLauchlan co-founded Austin Winery on the premise that it should be as relaxed and local as possible. The first of its kind within Austin city limits, the urban winery is distinctly Texan. Although the grapes are grown elsewhere, everything — from the fermentation and filtration to the bottling, serving, and enjoyment — takes place in town.