Saddlerock Wine + Beer was built in 1873 by cofounder of First National Bank, David Chapman Bennett.
Discover Saddlerock Wine + Beer: A historic Fort Worth winery with scenic views and unique tastings
By Rachael Lindley
Photography by Crystal Wise
Saddlerock Wine + Beer is nestled atop a hill on the banks of the Trinity River in a beautifully restored, Victorian-style, historic Fort Worth home. The winery opened in May 2024.
Situated off of Samuels Avenue between downtown Fort Worth and the Stockyards, post oak trees dot the walkway leading up to the home evoking a feeling of calm that you normally don’t feel in the bustling city. Instead, you feel like you’re on a leisurely vacation in wine country.
The residence turned tasting room was originally built by co-founder of First National Bank, David Chapman Bennett in 1873, making it one of the oldest buildings in Fort Worth.
“The home has grown with its owners over the years, with additions dating back to the early 1900s,” says Francesca Lawrence, Saddlerock Wine + Beer general manager. “Every detail tells a story.”
Saddlerock tapped interior design company High Street Homes to enhance the natural beauty of the home and complement the colors surrounding the property. The downstairs sitting area features an original fireplace, zellige tiles in earthy tones and a bar with vertical, verdant clé tiles to act as the centerpiece for the property. High Street Homes even kept original bathroom features like a scalloped- edge sink and original faucets.
Every design detail was considered. High Street homes made sure to repurpose as much as possible regarding fixtures, and what had to be replaced was done so in a similar style.
The upstairs has a members-only room with another original fireplace that looks out over the front yard putting you at eye level with ancient oak trees, a perfect perch.
Continuing to the back half of the property, the renovated carriage house doubles as a small party setting. Open the massive, original door and follow stairs to a single second level room with original hardwood floors where guests can host intimate get togethers.
Multiple tables with umbrellas and couches and big, comfy chairs outline the back yard leading out to a stunning view of the West Fork of the Trinity River.
Saddlerock Wine + Beer takes great pride in their outdoor seating spaces and is prepared for cooler temperatures with heaters and firepits.
Like a Fine Wine
Owner Ron Semler, a California winemaker with Texas roots, found himself in Fort Worth after the 2018 Woolsey wildfires. Semler lost part of his property and tasting rooms and decided to leave Los Angeles for Fort Worth. Ever the fan of historical homes, Semler purchased 731 Samuels Ave. in 2022.
The Semler family’s Saddlerock Ranch, located in Malibu, grows and harvests most of the grapes for Saddlerock wines, with some grapes outsourced to Northern California to create estate wines.
“Our wines include two labels,” Lawrence says. “The estate label, made from our Malibu grapes, and the Saddlerock label, which is private-labeled and sourced from California growers.”
Varietals include Sauvignon Blanc, Riesling, Chardonnay, Moscato, several rosés and the highly sought after Pinot Blanc.
“Our estate sparkling rosé is a top seller. It’s very dry, which surprises many people,” Lawrence says.
They also offer several red wines ranging from Malbec to Cabernet Sauvignon and the highly prized 2014 Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon.
Not a wine drinker? No problem. The tasting room also carries a carefully curated selection of Texas beers, focusing on local and nearby microbreweries like Hop and Sting Brewing Co., Allstadt Brewing out of Fredericksburg, Karbach Brewing Co. from Houston and Deep Ellum Brewing Co.
While Saddlerock doesn’t serve food, they do have a food truck on site most days and sell light bites that pair well with its wine. There are also non-alcoholic offerings.
In Good Company
Saddlerock recently started a wine club that offers a more tailored experience.
Members can choose from a variety of wines, including estate and private-label options. The wine club also promises access to exclusive winery events and limited edition wines and releases. Every selection is customized to the member’s personal preferences. Upon entry, members must purchase at least three bottles of wine per quarter. The first 100 members can join without any sign-up fees.
“It’s not just about the wine, it’s about creating a community of people who love good wine and good company,” Lawrence says.
Kara Phillips and Katie Sansom of High Street Homes took the lead on initial design selections. The principal goal of any design decision that High Street Homes made was to enhance the natural beauty of the home.
A Full Calendar
Saddlerock has an exciting lineup of upcoming events covering Valentine’s Day to quickly approaching warm spring days.
First on the docket is their Galentine’s Pajama party complete with friendship bracelet-making, sparkling rosé, movies and cupcakes on Thursday, Feb. 13.
The winery will also offer a couples valentine’s package including a two-hour table reservation, red wine flights and a dessert bundle from Bodega South Main. Packages will be available Feb. 14-16.
In May, Saddlerock Wine + Beer will celebrate its one year anniversary. To commemorate the milestone, the winery is planning a grand birthday party featuring special wine releases and other entertainment.
Furthermore, the tasting room plans to host a painting class by co-owner and artist, Lisa Semler, a sip and sculpt event, monthly or bi-monthly exercise classes, Mahjong nights and weekly trivia.
Our space is designed to offer something unique, a place where guests can savor wine while surrounded by history,” Lawrence says. “We’re proud to be historically preserved by the city of Fort Worth, and it’s been such a rewarding journey to merge that heritage with our passion for wine.”
On The Horizon
Saddlerock Wine + Beer is part of Ron Semler’s larger plan. The Fort Worth location serves as a sister location to the West Hills Tasting Room and Saddlerock Wine Safari in Malibu.
Another Wine Safari experience location in Brock, Texas is underway and set to open in Fall 2025.