Our Story
Barons Creek Vineyards is a family-owned and operated winery devoted to creating quality wines and delivering the best wine experience in Texas and beyond. Our diverse portfolio of award-winning wines is crafted from premium vineyards in Texas, California, Washington, and Spain. Since opening our flagship location in Fredericksburg, TX in 2015, we’ve expanded across the Lone Star State with tasting rooms in Georgetown, Granbury, McKinney, and Dallas-Bishop Arts. In 2024, we proudly grew beyond Texas with new locations in Durango, Colorado and Ocala, Florida—bringing the Barons Creek experience to even more wine lovers across the country.
BCV HISTORY
Marc and Marta Chase, along with their family, are originally from Austin, TX. Looking for a weekend escape, the family stumbled upon the quaint and charming town of Fredericksburg and instantly fell in love. In 2005, they purchased their ranch where they created lifelong memories with their friends and family. Throughout the years, as their kids began to grow, so did the small town. The entrepreneurial family decided to risk it all and bet on the town they loved.
Their vision and commitment came to fruition in 2015 when Barons Creek Vineyards opened. With each passing year, their dedication to the vineyard deepened, culminating in their decision to leave behind their other businesses and devote their full attention to its success in 2018. As the vines flourished, so did their ambition. The family saw potential in expanding into other small towns across Texas. In 2019, they unveiled their first wine room and tasting lounge in the heart of Georgetown's historic square, laying the foundation for expansion. The family embarked on a journey of growth, opening doors in Granbury in 2020, McKinney in 2022, and Dallas-Bishop Arts in 2023. In 2024, they proudly grew beyond Texas with new locations in Durango, Colorado and Ocala, Florida—bringing the Barons Creek experience to even more wine lovers across the country.
Our Wine Maker
Sam Jennings
Sam Jennings brings a dynamic blend of passion, experience, and innovation to his role as Winemaker at Barons Creek Vineyards. Since joining the BCV family in December 2024, Sam has played an integral role in crafting wines that showcase the character and potential of Texas terroir.
Originally studying sociology, Sam discovered his passion for winemaking during a harvest season in Washington State. That unexpected opportunity sparked a lifelong journey through the world of wine, leading him to pursue formal enology education while gaining hands-on experience at wineries across the country. His career has taken him from Washington to Pennsylvania, Connecticut, and Minnesota, while also traveling internationally through Europe, South America, South Africa, and Asia to study diverse winemaking techniques and traditions.
Before joining BCV, Sam served as Head Winemaker at Bingham Family Vineyards, where he further developed his expertise in warm-climate varietals and small-batch production. His deep knowledge of blending, vineyard management, and thoughtful winemaking aligns seamlessly with Barons Creek Vineyards’ commitment to quality and exceptional guest experiences.
Outside the cellar, Sam enjoys fishing, restoring old cars, and cheering on his favorite Seattle sports teams. He and his wife Amanda now proudly call Texas home. Known for his approachable philosophy and creative spirit, Sam believes great wine should tell a story — one rooted in craftsmanship, balance, and connection.
Our Legacy Winemaker
D Russell Smith
Meet D. Russell Smith, our esteemed legacy winemaker at Barons Creek Vineyards, a visionary who has been an integral part of our journey since our inception in 2015. With over four decades of expertise in crafting exquisite wines across the picturesque vineyards of Texas, California, and Spain, Russell brings an unparalleled passion and skill to every bottle.
Hailing originally from Houston, Russell's fascination with wine ignited during his college years, where regular visits to a nearby wine shop for tastings sparked a deep-seated interest. His journey took flight during his first European adventure, where he personally explored vineyards and wineries, setting the stage for his eventual relocation to Napa Valley in 1983 to immerse himself in the art of winemaking.
After honing his craft in Napa, Russell returned to Texas in 1989, carrying with him a wealth of knowledge and a relentless dedication to his craft. In 2012, he expanded his horizons further by acquiring two vineyards in Catalonia, Spain, a testament to his global perspective on winemaking.
Balancing his time between Fredericksburg, Texas, and Catalonia, Spain, Russell meticulously oversees the production of our wines, ensuring that each bottle embodies the essence of his expertise and devotion. At Barons Creek Vineyards, Russell's unique journey leaves an indelible mark, reflected in our exceptional wines.
With every sip, you'll taste the culmination of Russell's passion and dedication, as he invites you to raise your glass and toast to life's joys with a hearty "Salud!"
