If you attend a Texas wine or viticulture conference, you will most likely see Tony and Madonna Phillips of Phillips Vineyard there too. They have a very popular vineyard in the Texas High Plains and have been farming for a long time. We are proud to feature Phillips Vineyard as this month’s Grower Profile!
- What did you do before growing grapes?
We have farmed row crops since 1996.
- When did you first plant your vineyard, and how many acres did you start with?
In 2015 we planted our first 10-acre block consisting of 5 acres of Sangiovese and 5 acres of Touriga Nacional.
- How many acres do you have today, and what grapes are planted?
We just completed our original plan of establishing a 40-acre vineyard. We planted the Sangiovese and Touriga Nacional in 2015. We subsequently planted 2.5 acres of Muscat Blanc, 2.5 acres of Roussanne, and 5 acres of Cinsault in 2016. In 2019 we planted 2.5 acres of Graciano, 2.5 acres of Chenin Blanc, and 5 acres of Mourvèdre. Our most recent planting in 2023 included 2.5 acres of Picpoul Blanc, 2.5 acres of Alvarinho, and 5 acres of Teroldego.
- Do you farm any other crops? And if so, what?
Yes, we have farmed cotton, wheat, peanuts, and black-eyed peas. However, our most concentrated efforts are in cotton production.
- What first attracted you to growing grapes?
We felt growing grapes would be a great way to diversify our farming operation as well as utilize our water resources and land more efficiently.
- What is the toughest challenge about being a grape grower in Texas?
Of course, we could say the weather, environment, or labor issues are always challenging. We honestly feel marketing is quite challenging. You not only have to market your vineyard and grapes but also market yourself. Most importantly, you have to back up all your marketing efforts by producing high-quality grapes.
- If you didn’t grow grapes, what would you do?
We are farmers. We would still farm row crops although we prefer growing grapes and find grape growing more rewarding.
- After a long day in the vineyard, what do you like to do?
Relax and enjoy a great meal while spending time with friends and family, especially our grandkids.
- What’s the best part about being a grape grower?
Experiencing a full circle moment when we can taste the wine made with the fruits of our labor. We love being able to share these wines with family and friends.
- What advice would you give someone wanting to start a vineyard today?
In our opinion planning is crucial. You don’t have to plant your vineyard at one time. Establishing your vineyard in phases is beneficial in areas such as labor, finances, and time. More importantly, do what makes sense for you.
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