85R18484 BPG-D
 
  By: Biedermann H.C.R. No. 123
 
 
 
CONCURRENT RESOLUTION
         WHEREAS, The Texas Hill Country is home to more than 45
  wineries and vineyards, and Fredericksburg is the epicenter of this
  popular region; and
         WHEREAS, Early in the history of Fredericksburg, settlers
  used the native mustang grape to make wine; subsequent generations
  refined the cultivation of grapes and production of wine, and in
  recent years, several wines produced by Fredericksburg-area
  vineyards and wineries have won state and national awards,
  attesting to the high quality of local viticulture; and
         WHEREAS, More than 600 acres of grapes sprawl north and west
  of Fredericksburg, and the concentration of vineyards and wineries
  along U.S. Highway 290 draws a host of tourists; visitors enjoy
  patronizing tasting rooms, wine cellars, festivals, and a variety
  of other events, and several guided tours have been established for
  the convenience of customers; and
         WHEREAS, Fredericksburg has been designated as an American
  Viticultural Area by the Alcohol and Tobacco Tax and Trade Bureau;
  this appellation officially recognizes a "delimited grape growing
  region distinguishable by geographical features, the boundaries of
  which have been recognized and defined"; and
         WHEREAS, Hill Country wineries and vineyards contribute
  significantly to the prosperity of Fredericksburg, and they have
  brought the city international recognition that is a source of
  pride to area citizens; now, therefore, be it
         RESOLVED, That the 85th Legislature of the State of Texas
  hereby designate Fredericksburg as the official Wine Capital of
  Texas.