Blake and a wine sample. Photo: Megan Stringer/Axios
👋 Megan here.The Rhinory is my new favorite Texas Hill Country winery, and it isn't just because you get to hang out with a rhino while you're there.
The big picture: It's clear the owners and employees are passionate about conserving the world's rhinoceros population — this is no gimmick. The 55-acre property is home to one southern white rhino named Blake, a young male.
The owners opened the Rhinory after seeing a rhino poached in South Africa. They plan to eventually introduce female rhinos when Blake is of breeding age.
How it works: Guests can sip wine on the patio while viewing Blake from a distance. You can also purchase an experience to get up close and personal with Blake.
The business supports Blake's care and rhino conservation.
What to try: I loved the Texas albariño ($39 per bottle), a fresh white wine. It's one of the better Texas wines I've had.
Find it: The Rhinory is about 13 miles east of downtown Fredericksburg on U.S. 290.