Combine a fun summer getaway with an opportunity to sample fresh, handcrafted beverages by heading to Denison, a quick road trip only about an hour from Dallas. Often, the best summer memories are made near home–all you need is a desire to explore and, in this case, taste something new. Long known for its abundance of outdoor adventure opportunities—hiking, boating, fishing, and camping to name a few—Denison has recently become a favorite shopping and dining destination as well. Break up the routine and make a day, or a weekend, of it and plan a craft beverage tour of Denison this summer at these local distilleries and wineries where you’re sure to discover plenty of new favorites.
1. Ironroot Republic Distillery.
Since 2014, the Likarish family has been crafting some of the finest spirits in Texas using local heirloom grains and French-inspired techniques. Their philosophy is heavily influenced by the history of Denison, where local viticulturist T.V. Munson helped save the French wine industry from destruction with his Texas “iron” grape roots. His efforts forever linked Denison to Cognac, France, and inspired the Likarish family to learn brandy distilling techniques. Their award-winning spirits can be purchased online here, or stop by for a personalized, behind-the-scenes look at Ironroot Republic’s process. Distillery tours, which include samples, take place from 12 to 2 p.m. every Saturday.
Book your experience at https://www.ironrootrepublic.com/visit. Learn more and plan your visit at https://www.ironrootrepublic.com/home and follow the Denison-based distillery on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/ironrootrepublic/.
3111 Loy Lake Road, Denison
2. Ivanhoe Ale and Homestead Winery.
The first Brew-Winery in Texas is a must on your craft beverage tour of Denison. Located in charming downtown Denison in the same building as Homestead Winery, Ivanhoe Ale Works has you covered—whether you are in the mood for a cold Texas beer, a glass of Texas wine—or both! Homestead Winery is the oldest and largest continually operating winery in the Red River Valley of North Texas. If you time your visit right, you can catch some live music or a Texoma Film Club movie night.
Learn more about both establishments at https://www.facebook.com/homestead.wineries and https://www.facebook.com/IvanhoeAleWorks.
220 West Main Street, Denison
3. Say When Brewing Company.
You’ll find Say When Brewing Company’s craft beers at several local “watering holes” in and around Denison—Frank and Lola’s Bohemian Tacos, The Railyard Food Hall and Bar, and HeyDay to name a few. You can also get a taste of the brewery’s flavorful ales in its taproom located in the heart of historic downtown Denison. It’s the perfect spot to unwind and play games, including a new 252-piece puzzle, with family and friends. Bring your pup, too! Say When Brewing Company is open from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. Friday through Sunday, and from 4 to 9 p.m. Wednesdays and Thursdays.
Learn about Say When’s unique brews and check out upcoming events at https://saywhenbrewing.com/ and https://www.facebook.com/SayWhenBrewingCompany/.
111 South Fannin Avenue, Denison
4. Hidden Hangar Winery.
Situated on a 50-acre North Texas tract that was once an airport and home to Barnstormers from the 1920s through the 1950s, Hidden Hangar Winery is unarguably one of Denison’s most interesting gems. Hidden Hangar grows Vitis Vinifera grapes as well as Cabernet Franc, Cabernet Sauvignon, Malbec, Petite Verdot, Riesling, and Syrah grapes. Throughout the years, wine masters have taken the grapes from the winery’s fields and created award-winning wines. In 2017, Hidden Hangar began producing its own Texas wines. The winery’s Control Tower is a state-of-the-art wine production facility that is adjacent to the terminal/concourse that houses the Pilot’s Lounge, barrel room, wine cellar, and tasting room. Tastings are available Friday through Sunday.
Stop by to sample a few wines, or indulge in wine flights featuring renowned, award-winning Texas Estate wines and pair them with a freshly made charcuterie board. You can also book a tour of the winery and production facility, or visit the vineyard for an inside look into the beauty of winemaking.
Learn more at https://hiddenhangar.com/ and follow Hidden Hangar Winery at https://www.facebook.com/hidden.hangar.vineyard.and.winery/ and https://www.instagram.com/hiddenhangarwinery/.
273 Middle Road, Denison
5. Landon Winery.
Visit Landon Winery’s sixth and newest location in historic downtown Denison. There’s always something happening at Landon Winery–live music, weekend festivals, wine dinners, Sip & Shops, art classes, food pairings, and, more. French and American oak barrels full of wine, as well as Bourbon barrel-aged wine, are just a few examples of what you’ll find in Landon Winery’s production facilities. Landon Winery has earned hundreds of medals, awards, and recognitions for its wines. Stop by and taste for yourself!
Learn more about the winery and its long list of wines at https://www.landonwinery.com/about/ and follow Landon Winery’s Denison location at https://www.facebook.com/LandonWineryDenison.
318 West Main Street, Denison
