Tuesday, February 24 2009

8:00 am – 3:30 pm

This year’s Spouse/Guest Program features a tour of the Texas Hill Country.  The first stop will be one of two family owned Texas wineries.  Becker Vineyards has been featured in Wine Spectator Magazine, and on The Fine Living Channel, and their wine has been served at The White House.  The vineyard was planted on a site of native Mustang grapes much prized for wine making by German neighbors and their ancestors. Also planted on site is a three acre lavender field reminiscent of the wine country of France. Grape Creek Vineyards is the oldest winery in the Pedernales River Valley. Located on spring-fed South Grape Creek, the gently rolling hills are planted with 16 acres of vinifera grapes.

Next, the tour will take a short drive through the scenic Texas Hill Country on the way to the colorful and quaint town of Fredericksburg. Along the way, we will  stop at the Wildseed Farms Market Center, the largest working wildflower farm in the U.S. There will be time for you to take a leisurely stroll along walking trails ablaze with a variety of colorful blooms and delight in the beauty of butterflies and hummingbirds in the floral paradise.

The remainder of the tour will be spent in the quaint town of Fredericksburg.  Enjoy lunch at August E’s, which offers a menu reflective of nouveau Texas cuisine.  Following lunch there will be free time in town for shopping and exploring Fredericksburg.  The restored 19th century buildings now house over 150 boutiques, art galleries, and antique emporiums.  There is also the opportunity to visit the Pioneer Museum Complex and the National Museum of the Pacific War.

Cost: $190.00 (Fee includes bus transportation, breakfast, lunch, refreshments, and all admission fees. The fee also includes admission to the National Ethanol Conference receptions on Monday and Tuesday evenings).

Cancellation Policy: Cancellations received in writing by January 23, 2009 will receive a full refund. No refunds will be granted after January 23, 2009.