The beautiful weather and wonderful conditions of the Texas Hill Country make it a prime area for vineyards. There are dozens of vineyards around the Austin area, producing wonderful wines and other products. Those who enjoy wine tastings and tours can find endless events at the area's many vineyards. Here are just a handful of the local wineries that you can visit and enjoy.

Torre di Pietra Winery - This winery is located in the town of Fredericksburg, just outside of Austin. Run by the Maxwell family, this company has been making wine for more than 100 years. The winery is open daily for public tours and tastings.

Spicewood Vineyards - The Spicewood Vineyards and winery has only been in existence for just over 15 years, but has made a mark on the Texas wine community. Their wines have received countless awards from local and national competitions. They are open to the public from Wednesday through Sunday.

Stone House Vineyard - Stone House Vineyard, located in Spicewood, was started in 1998 by a couple with a deep interest in wine. Using American grapes and classic wine making processes, they have developed a line of wines that have received several awards and accolades. The vineyards are open to the public Thursday through Sunday.

Flat Creek Estate - The Flat Creek Estate and Vineyard are situated on the banks of Lake Travis, just outside the city of Austin. The company's award winning wines are produced under the Flat Creek Estate brand and the Travis Peak Select lines, depending on where the grapes are grown. The tasting room is open from Tuesday through Sunday.

Lost Creek Vineyard - Lost Creek Vineyard has been named the best new winery in Texas, with several of its wines winning major awards. Located in Sunrise Beach, the winery welcomes the public to come and taste their wines and enjoy their on-property Bistro, Tuesdays through Sundays.

Driftwood Vineyard - Driftwood Vineyard was planted in 1998, producing its first wine in 2002. They have since more than tripled production and have opened their facilities up for luncheons and special events. The winery tasting room is open to the public, seven days a week.

Mandola Estate Winery - The Mandola Estate Winery is situated just outside Driftwood features wines made from grapes that are native to the lesser-known wine making regions of Italy. These grapes, along with more popular varieties grown here, produce a unique selection of wines. The vineyard is open to the public Tuesday through Sunday, with full tours on the weekends.

Woodrose Vineyard - Woodrose is a small winery, located just outside of Stonewall. They opened in 2001 and have been slowly expanding to include a wider range of wines. Visitors are welcome to enjoy the tasting room, and its restaurant style service, seven days a week.

These are but a few of the wonderful wineries that are developing their delicious varieties in the Hill Country around Austin. Touring these or other local wineries will give you a chance to sample the local flavors of Texas Hill Country wines.