Recently, Duchman Family Winery invited our staff to take the short drive down to Driftwood for a tour and a wine tasting. Of course we jumped at the idea, but it never once occurred to us to bring the kids. In our minds, this was an adult-only activity. But guess what? We were totally wrong! Read on to see why a visit to Duchman might actually be a perfect little weekend outing for the entire family.

It’s important to first point out how close this is to central Austin while feeling so very far away from it all. Duchman Family Winery features an Italian Villa-style design and is set among beautiful Hill Country views, surrounded by lush vineyards with an expansive oak-shaded picnic grove. Here, you feel more like you’re in Tuscany than just 30 min. outside of Austin.

The Duchman Family Winery was founded in 2004 by Drs. Lisa and Stan Duchman in a quest to bring world-class winemaking and their love of unique Italian grape varieties to Central Texas. You can click here to read ALL about their award winning wines like Vermentino, Sangiovese, and Dolcetto. Duchman Family Winery is one of the top wine destinations in Texas. All of the winery’s current releases can be sampled and purchased at the winery’s tasting room, which is open daily — no reservations needed. Friendly tasting room attendants will guide you through a flight of 6 tastes of wine for $12. Tasting Room Hours: Mon. 12-6 p.m.;  Tues.-Thurs. 11 a.m. – 8 p.m.; Fri.-Sat. 11 a.m. – 9 p.m.; Sun. 11 a.m. – 8 p.m.

Of course we had such a lovely time sampling wines and touring the winery, but we were really impressed to learn that all ages are welcome to tag along with mom and dad. (Obviously only ages 21 & up can sample wines.) There is plenty of space to spread out a picnic blanket and enjoy lunch or dinner on the grounds. Next door is the Italian restaurant, Trattoria Lisina, where you can also grab a bite. And (get this!) on the grounds you’ll also find a playscape! There are a few lawn games there, too, but pack some bubbles or a few extra games to keep the kids busy so you can sit back and enjoy a glass or two of that delicious local wine.

Duchman also hosts a variety of special events from family movie nights to pig roasts and more. You can check out their Facebook page to keep track of the latest happenings. For much more information, please visit duchmanwinery.com.