Press Release
Deep in the heart of Texas wine country, Wildseed Farms has launched what may be the most extraordinary vineyard experience in the Hill Country—and possibly in the entire nation. The new tour, titled “Vineyard Cruise,” invites guests to set sail through rows of flourishing grapevines aboard a custom-designed pontoon boat, the Sassy Coot, glass in hand, story in ear, and adventure on the horizon.
This is no ordinary vineyard stroll. Wildseed Farms, already renowned for its sprawling wildflower fields and artisan wines, has created a multi-sensory journey that combines wine tasting, storytelling, and interactive fun with the land itself. The experience begins with guests boarding the Sassy Coot, a slow-moving, barge-like vessel that glides gently along a meandering canal carved through the vineyard.
With a drink of their choice—be it a crisp Viognier, a bold Tempranillo, or a beer of their choice—the passengers are personally guided by none other than the farm’s owner and founder, John R. Thomas. With the charm of a seasoned rancher and the knowledge of a vintner, Thomas recounts the farm’s roots, its evolution from a humble wildflower haven to a premier agritourism destination, and the quirky trials of cultivating beauty and bounty in tandem.
But the real showstopper? Grape fishing.
As the sun glints off the vines and music floats on the breeze, guests are invited to “fish” by casting grapes into grape stomp barrels for a chance to catch a bottle of wine—a whimsical, hands-on experience that is as playful as it is picturesque. Grape fishing makes this a unique and unexpected twist to the vineyard tour.
“This is about more than wine,” says Thomas. “It’s about creating a memory. We wanted something that would make people say, ‘Only in the Hill Country.’”
Already, word is spreading quickly, with weekend bookings filling fast and social media lighting up with photos of floating wine flights and joyful grape-fishers in sun hats.
As Central Texas continues to cement its place on the world wine map, Wildseed Farms’ daring new direction proves that innovation and tradition can row in the same boat—literally.
Wildseed Farms’ “Vines & Vessels” tours run on Saturday and Sunday. Reservations are required. Visit wildseedfarms.com for tour details and availability.