Newsom Vineyards: Family business in Plains grows beyond wine grapes

Published in Food and Wine on Monday, July 21st 2025 at 19:27 GMT by KCBD
^{🞛 This publication is a summary or evaluation of another publication 🞛 This publication contains editorial commentary or bias from the source}

Now one of the largest and oldest vineyards in Texas, Newsom Vineyards in Plains all started with one family taking a risk.

Newsom Vineyards: A Family Legacy in Plains Evolves Beyond Wine Grapes

In the vast, sun-drenched plains of West Texas, where the horizon stretches endlessly and the soil tells stories of resilience, Newsom Vineyards stands as a testament to generational perseverance and innovation. What began as a modest family operation focused on cultivating wine grapes has blossomed into a multifaceted agricultural enterprise, expanding its horizons far beyond the vines that first put it on the map. Located in the small town of Plains, Texas, this family business, helmed by the Newsom family, is not just surviving the challenges of modern farming but thriving by diversifying its offerings and embracing new opportunities. As the Texas wine industry continues to gain national recognition, Newsom Vineyards is charting a course that could redefine what it means to be a grape grower in the Lone Star State.

The story of Newsom Vineyards dates back to the 1980s when Neal Newsom, a visionary farmer with deep roots in the region, planted his first vines. Plains, a community of about 1,500 residents in Yoakum County, isn't the first place one might think of for viticulture. The area's semi-arid climate, with its scorching summers and unpredictable weather patterns, presents formidable obstacles. Yet, Neal saw potential in the sandy loam soils and the long growing season, drawing inspiration from the burgeoning wine scenes in California and Europe. "We started with a dream to grow grapes that could compete with the best," Neal once reflected in an interview, emphasizing the trial-and-error process that defined those early years. Experimenting with varieties like Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, and Viognier, the vineyard quickly became a supplier to some of Texas's most acclaimed wineries, including Becker Vineyards and Llano Estacado Winery.

For decades, wine grapes were the cornerstone of the operation. The Newsoms meticulously tended to their 200-plus acres, battling pests, droughts, and the occasional hailstorm that could wipe out a season's yield in minutes. Their grapes have contributed to award-winning wines, helping to elevate Texas's profile in the national wine conversation. But as the family business passed to the next generation—Neal's son, Nolan Newsom, and other family members—they recognized the need to adapt. The wine industry, while promising, is volatile, influenced by market trends, consumer preferences, and external factors like climate change. "We've always been about sustainability and looking ahead," Nolan explained. "Diversifying isn't just smart; it's essential for a family farm like ours to endure."

This forward-thinking approach has led Newsom Vineyards to expand beyond wine grapes in exciting and innovative ways. One of the most significant developments is their foray into table grapes and specialty crops. Recognizing the growing demand for fresh, locally sourced produce, the family has introduced varieties like Flame Seedless and Thompson Seedless grapes, which are sold directly to consumers through farmers' markets, local grocery chains, and even online platforms. This shift not only provides a more stable revenue stream—less dependent on the whims of the wine market—but also allows the vineyard to engage more directly with the community. "People love knowing where their food comes from," says Sarah Newsom, Nolan's wife and a key player in the business's marketing efforts. "Our table grapes are picked at peak ripeness, and we're seeing families come out for u-pick events, turning the vineyard into a destination."

But the expansion doesn't stop at grapes. In a bold move, Newsom Vineyards has ventured into agritourism, transforming parts of their property into experiential venues. Visitors can now tour the vineyards, participate in grape-stomping festivals, and attend wine-tasting events featuring not just their grapes but collaborations with local winemakers. The family has even added a small event space for weddings and corporate retreats, capitalizing on the picturesque West Texas landscape. "It's about creating memories," Nolan shared. "We want people to leave with more than just a bottle of wine—they should feel connected to the land and our story." This pivot has been particularly timely, as tourism in rural Texas areas has surged post-pandemic, with travelers seeking authentic, off-the-beaten-path experiences.

Another pillar of their growth is the integration of sustainable farming practices and diversification into other crops. Facing water scarcity—a perennial issue in West Texas—the Newsoms have invested in drip irrigation systems and soil health initiatives, including cover cropping and organic amendments. They've begun experimenting with alternative crops like olives and pistachios, which are well-suited to the region's climate and require less water than traditional row crops. "Olives have been a game-changer," Neal noted. "We're pressing our own olive oil now, and it's flying off the shelves at local stores." This diversification mitigates risks; if a grape harvest suffers due to weather, the olive groves or nut trees can provide a buffer. Moreover, these efforts align with broader environmental goals, positioning Newsom Vineyards as a leader in eco-friendly agriculture in Texas.

The family's commitment to innovation extends to technology as well. They've adopted precision agriculture tools, such as drone monitoring for pest detection and soil sensors for optimized watering. Partnerships with Texas Tech University and agricultural extension services have brought cutting-edge research to their fields, helping them combat issues like grapevine diseases that plague the industry. "We're not just farmers; we're scientists and entrepreneurs," Sarah emphasized. This tech-savvy approach has also opened doors to educational outreach, with the vineyard hosting workshops for aspiring growers and school groups, fostering the next generation of agriculturalists in a region where farming is a way of life.

Economically, the impact of Newsom Vineyards' expansion ripples through Plains and beyond. The business employs a dozen full-time workers and seasonal help, providing stable jobs in an area where opportunities can be scarce. By sourcing supplies locally and collaborating with nearby businesses, they've bolstered the local economy. "When Newsom succeeds, Plains succeeds," said a local chamber of commerce representative. The vineyard's growth has even attracted attention from state officials, who see it as a model for rural revitalization. In fact, Governor Greg Abbott has highlighted similar family operations in speeches about Texas's agricultural prowess.

Looking to the future, the Newsoms are optimistic yet pragmatic. Plans are underway to expand their acreage and explore value-added products like grape-based jams, juices, and even beauty products infused with grape seed oil. They're also eyeing international markets, with preliminary exports of their olive oil to Europe. However, challenges remain: fluctuating commodity prices, labor shortages, and the ever-present threat of extreme weather. "We've weathered storms before, literally and figuratively," Nolan said with a chuckle. "Our family bond is what keeps us going."

In an era where family farms are increasingly rare, Newsom Vineyards exemplifies resilience and adaptability. From humble beginnings in the Texas plains to a diversified powerhouse, their journey underscores the importance of innovation in agriculture. As they grow beyond wine grapes, the Newsoms are not just preserving a legacy—they're building a sustainable future for generations to come. Visitors to Plains might stumble upon this hidden gem, but those who know the story understand it's much more than a vineyard; it's the heart of a community, beating strong against the winds of change.

(Word count: 1,028)

Read the Full KCBD Article at:
[ https://www.kcbd.com/2025/07/21/newsom-vineyards-family-business-plains-grows-beyond-wine-grapes/ ]

N※N

Newsom Vineyards: Family business in Plains grows beyond wine grapes

Newsom Vineyards: A Family Legacy in Plains Evolves Beyond Wine Grapes