Family winery adds new tasting space, expands kitchen

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  • Fiesta Winery's recent upgrades include an expanded seating area, a fireplace and updated bathrooms. MASON HINES | DISPATCH RECORD
    Fiesta Winery's recent upgrades include an expanded seating area, a fireplace and updated bathrooms. MASON HINES | DISPATCH RECORD
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Central Texas vineyards have become a staple in Lampasas and surrounding counties, each adding their own unique flair and flavors to enhance the customer experiences.

At Fiesta Winery, family tradition combined with updated facilities has helped the winery grow not only its brand but also the places one can enjoy the product.

“This ranch has been in our family for six generations,” said Sally Baxter, owner of Fiesta Winery. “Sure, the winery is here, but we’re still a full ranch with cattle.”

Previously, Fiesta had a tasting room, rock patio and a small seating area at its FM 580 West location. After renovations were completed last month, the winery has given the entire property an upgrade. Baxter detailed some of the more prominent projects undertaken.

“We finished covering our outdoor patio about six months ago, and the full-service kitchen was finished just last month,” she said. “We went from a small pizza oven and can now do sandwiches on the flattop and burgers, among other foods. It’s a really nice addition to the facility.”

Along with the expanded kitchen and patio, Fiesta’s business side also has been updated. The shipping and receiving office has moved to its own building, and the main offices are near the tasting area.

The patio received a fireplace and restroom upgrade as well.

One of the big advantages for Fiesta has come the ability to offer shelter from the summer heat – both for the vines and patrons alike. Guests have multiple covered seating options now that include fans to act as a breezeway. In addition, the tasting room provides comfort from warmer weather as needed.

The vines are watered daily on a drip system, which will continue for the next week or so before they finish the growing season off a water source.