Torr Na Lochs Vineyard & Winery

Address:	7055 TX-29, Burnet, TX 78611, USA
Phone:	+1 512-766-0555
Site:	torrnalochs.com
Rating:	4.6
Working:	Closed Closed Closed 1–5PM 1–5PM 1–6PM 1–5PM

Location

Photos 100

Reviews 15

Mark Moravits

Gaelic for "rocky hill over the lake", Torr Na Lochs is a relatively new winery perched high above Inks Lake with spectacular views of the Texas Hill Country. The winery itself (main building, surrounding lands) is spectacular, but the views you enjoy while visiting are even more spectacular. But what about the wine? No offense to The Great State of Texas (my home and that of ancestors 8 generations before me), but Texas generally does not make good wine. The quality isnt there. The terroir isnt there. Often its far too sweet with various and unnecessary flavor additives and added sugar. This is all put up against the fact that the wine is expensive. Torr La Nochs is the first time Ive been impressed by a Texas wine. Genuinely good, balanced flavors that dont rely on nasty additives, with depth and character. The standouts were the Orange Muscat (white), Tempranillo (red), and their two estates reds (I cannot recall the names). Youd never know these were Texas wines, youd think they were Argentine or California Central Coast. Much like the majority of the vineyards/wineries in the Texas Hill Country (and unlike those in major global wine producing regions), tasting is not free. If fact its a bit pricey, but worth it for a fun Saturday enjoying spectacular views only a short drive from home. Their tasting (priced at $15) gets you a tiny pour of all of their whites, one of their roses, and two of their reds. Not cheap--but again, its worth it. All of their wines--regardless of the price of the bottle--are $8 per glass. So, you can get a great value here. :) Two of their "Estate" wines (meaning all grapes grown on their vineyard) are in the $50/bottle range, but a glass is the same price as one from a $25 bottle. No offense to the winemakers--as I am truly impressed with what theyre doing--but their bottle prices are pretty steep for what you get. A bottle of similar quality from California/Oregon or Chile/Argentina would be half the price. But, buy local--and when you visit you see exactly where their wine is coming from. But again, part of what youre paying for are the ambiance, the relaxation, and the views. The day we went there was live jazz--and it was good. They have toys for kids to play with, folks were bringing their own snacks (although they do have a few on the menu), and to top it all off -- the service was excellent. Id advise against going here during the day over the hottest summer months. Youll cook on their deck, and even their fragrant white wines wont be able to cool you off. Take advantage of the perfect fall weather and head out here soon! One last note - I think this might be the most perfect place in the Austin area for an outdoor evening event (corporate party, wedding, etc). Youll see what I mean when you visit.

Jen P

I purchased a wine trail passport with a friend, her mom went to the hospital the morning of the day we planned to go to wineries so I decided to go alone. It was interesting to go alone to wineries and see how a single person was treated. For the most part all the wineries I visited (Pillar Bluff, Legato, Perissos) the staff was extremely nice and I felt they treated me (time and attention) like other patrons in larger groups (2, 4, 8 people). This winery however, I didnt feel that way, which wouldnt have been a big deal because they were busy but the four top next to me (my table and their table were the only tables without umbrellas) were offered an umbrella and the employee/owner/Im not sure who he was, came and took the stand from the table I was sitting at saying sorry I dont have any more umbrellas I have to make the larger group happy, and took the stand from my table to give to them. I understand the mentality but dont agree with it. I think you should treat all guests the same. I realize you will make more off the four top but it is open seating and my table did have the umbrella stand. Anyways, beautiful view, the wine was okay, the server she was friendly, but I wouldnt go back.

Jack Schneider

Having a long-term geologic/camping background in the area, I am impressed with the respectful development of the Winery ("elegant, not ostentatious") and the beautiful surrounding vineyards carved by the DeBerry oenologists. Their dry rose will impress as will their Fion Geal and Roussanne...stretch for their super Petite Sirah! Sunset sipping overlooking Inks and Buchanan seal the deal.

Jonathan Yap

I had the pleasure of visiting Blake and Karen at TNL when I was in the Austin region, and had an amazing time. Best wine Ive had among the Texas wineries. Go for the Fion Geal if you have the chance. They were wonderful hosts, and were generous in sharing their stories. View is amazing and a great treat- especially if you can catch the sunset. Look forward to coming back again.

Meghan Miller

Fantastic experience here. Stopping by on an impulse down the road from Inks Lake state park after a day kayaking. I am so happy we stopped! Arrived at 4:30 on Thursday just in time to enjoy a wine tasting. Loved the wines and our server was fantastic (Rachel). Views were incredible. Thank you!

Jeremiah Fox

The tasting I had today at TNL was stellar. I was amazed at the perfect balance of spice and fruit in their Syrah and Malbec, and their whites were also very good. Great wine, friendly staff, awesome view ! Highly recommend ! A+

lance eschberger

Newly opened vineyard and winery that has the most amazing views of the Texas hill country.

Lana Forrest

Beautiful views of Lake Buchanan. Wines worth the side trip from the 290 wine trail.

David Westheimer

Awesome.beautiful view. Some of the best wines weve had in tx

Cherri Brents

Love this place, very friendly and beautiful sunsets.

Vikki Alpher

The wines, setting and views are the best in Texas!

George Devore

Gorgeous views, friendly staff, great wine!!