Hello from Denison, TX! I’m Ashley, back with my Newcomer’s Guide, and this month I want to talk about wine. Denison may not be the first place that comes to mind as a wine destination, but it truly is a hidden gem! With cozy spots for friendly gatherings, intimate date night dining, casual sip and shop events, and even a connection to the French wine industry—Denison has a lot to offer. So, whether you’re just here for a casual sip or you swirl, sniff, and savor like a pro, join me as we discover wine in Denison!
T.V. Munson Wine Walk
This year’s T.V. Munson Wine walk is almost here! Spend the day sipping, snacking, and shopping your way through Denison’s Historic Downtown. The event will start at the Discover Denison Visitor Center (see you there!) where you’ll pick up drink tickets, wine glasses, and there will be an optional charm bar to add some funky flair to your glass. With your glass in hand and fully customized, it’s time to start the sampling! Make your way through downtown Denison to sample the delicious North Texas wines and snacks while you shop. For some added fun, take part in the event’s scavenger hunt or Spin the Wheel for some extra prizes. The first 200 tickets will receive a commemorative glass for the event, so get your tickets now! Learn more about this event and buy tickets HERE.
T.V. Munson and the French Wine Industry
Something that many (myself included) are often unaware of before visiting Denison is the city’s connection to the wine industry. It can be traced all the way back to the 19th century thanks to a man named Thomas Volney Munson (T.V. Munson). Born in Illinois on September 26, 1843, Munson eventually moved to Denison, TX in 1876. He was very passionate about grapes and became a leading expert in American grape varieties. In the mid-1800s, Europe and France were experiencing a devastating infestation of a plant louse called phylloxera which had destroyed thousands of acres of vineyards. Munson was a well known expert by this time, so the French requested his help. The phylloxera resistant rootstock he sent was successfully grafted to their vines and he was credited with saving the wine industry in Europe and France.
Denison continues to recognize this special connection with France through the Sister Cities program. Each summer, Denison High School students take part in a cultural exchange program with students from Cognac, France. Learn more about Denison’s Sister Cities program HERE.
The “Vinita” House and T.V. Munson Memorial Vineyard
The house T.V. Munson resided in—known as “Vinita”—still stands today as a historical Texas landmark and living museum. Great care has been taken to maintain the property’s history and charm with its many original pieces, reproduced 19th century wallpaper, and the cellars are still stocked with some of Munson’s very own wine. Visiting the home is like traveling back to the 1800s when Munson himself lived there and conducted his industry saving research. The “Vinita” will be open for tours on September 6, 2025 for this year’s T.V. Munson Wine Walk or you can contact the Grayson College Foundation to schedule a private tour on a different day.
In 1974, Grayson College established the Viticulture and Enology program and T.V Munson Memorial Vineyard to honor T.V. Munson and his research. It is one of only a handful of institutions in the country offering this degree path. The vineyard serves as a resource for the college’s program and preserves over 60 of Munson’s original grape varieties. In the fall, the college collects and ships cuttings from the vineyard to grape growers and breeders across the country. To learn more about the Viticulture and Enology program or to request cuttings visit the program’s website HERE.
Casual Tastings at Homestead Winery and Landon Winery
Homestead Winery is the oldest continually operating winery in the Red River Valley of North Texas and has been crafting a diverse range of wines for over 35 years. The operation may be small, but their passion for wine, family, and community is anything but. Their tasting room is cozy, welcoming, and perfect for a relaxed date night or catching up with friends. You can sample their award-winning wines, try some international varieties, and pair your sips with light bites from their menu. Need help deciding? Their friendly and knowledgeable staff are always down for a chat and happy to point you in the right direction. Pop in next door to check out their craft beer brewery, Ivanhoe Ale Works, and catch their live music nights and events.
If you’re up for more wine tasting, head over to Landon Winery, which has been serving up top-notch wines since 2005. Their tasting rooms were thoughtfully designed to be warm, comfy, and just the right spot to enjoy everything from bold reds to sweet dessert wines. Looking for something fun to do while you sip? Landon regularly hosts events like bingo and trivia nights. Not sure what kind of wine you like? No problem! Try a tasting flight with a charcuterie board, or ask their super-friendly staff for a recommendation. You might just discover your new favorite. Oh, and don’t miss their weekly specials: half-price wine every Wednesday and Mimosa Mania on Sundays.
Wine, Dine, and Unwind with Stafford House Provisions and 34 Chophouse & Doc’s Lounge
Stafford House Provisions has a cozy, welcoming atmosphere that makes it perfect for catching up with friends, enjoying a romantic dinner, or celebrating something special. Whether you’re into bold reds, crisp whites, bubbly, or something on the sweeter side, their impressive wine selection has something for every taste. Unwind with a drink in their inviting bar and lounge, or savor an intimate dinner in their dining room that blends comfort with understated elegance. The team at Stafford House has nailed the art of pairing and they really know their stuff. Trust them—you’ll leave with happy taste buds and be talking about this meal long after the last bite!
Last but definitely not least, if you’re in the mood for an elevated dining experience, check out 34 Chophouse. This spot brings all the upscale vibes without feeling stuffy, and their thoughtfully curated wine list is designed to pair perfectly with every dish on the menu. Whether you’re celebrating something big or just want to treat yourself to a cozy date night, this place sets the scene beautifully. But don’t call it a night just yet—after dinner, head to the back of the restaurant and step into Doc’s Lounge. It’s a hidden gem with a laid-back, intimate feel. A seriously well-stocked bar and live music set the perfect mood, so grab a glass, sit back, and soak it all in. It’s the kind of spot where the night lingers in the best way.
Whether you’re a wine connoisseur or just someone who loves a good glass of sweet wine (like me!), Denison has something special to offer. From its deep-rooted history saving the French wine industry to today’s charming tasting rooms and wine walks, this little Texas town is full of flavor and fun. So, raise a glass and toast to new experiences, local sips, and the stories that make Denison such a delightful destination for wine lovers. Until next time—cheers from Denison!
– Ashley
Read my last post for Vintage and Antique Shopping in Denison or check out our Digital Visitors Guide for more Denison recommendations.
