Winemaker Kim McPherson (McPherson) of McPherson Cellars received industry recognition from his peers during this month’s annual Texas Hill Country Wineries’ (THCW), “Hill Country Wine Symposium.” McPherson is the 2025 “’Tall Texan’ Lifetime Achievement Award” winner.
January Wiese, Executive Director of THCW, shared that the award winner is nominated by THCW Members and selected by the THCW Board of Directors. “Kim is so deserving of this award,” stated Wiese; “We were thrilled to award Kim the THCW Industry Tall Texan Award this year!”
From THCW, the award description: “The Tall Texan Lifetime Achievement award is presented to an individual nominated from the Texas wine industry for their outstanding contributions to the Texas Hill Country and Texas wine industry. The nominee should be a longtime industry member whose commitment to and influence upon Texas wine has changed the face of the industry on a local, regional and state-wide level. The recipient’s history of involvement with THCW, experience and contributions to Texas wine, and demeanor should exhibit the highest degree of professionalism, dedication and passion for Texas wine.”
McPherson participated as a speaker and presenter at this year’s Symposium. He was very surprised to learn of the award. “I had no idea,” he shared humbly. “This organization and the people involved represent so many great Texas wines and wine stories. I was just pleased to be asked to present this year. And then this award was announced! I was very surprised and I’m very grateful,” shared McPherson.
The McPherson family has been a part of Texas viticulture and winemaking for over 50 years. McPherson Cellars was created to honor Winemaker Kim McPherson’s father, Dr. Clinton “Doc” McPherson, a founder and pioneer of the modern Texas wine industry. In 2000, Kim McPherson proudly launched his eponymous label in dedication to his father.
About Texas Hill Country Wineries
Texas Hill Country Wineries was founded in 1999 by a collective of eight visionary wineries; it has flourished into an well-respected association with a membership that has grown exponentially – now surpassing 60 winery members. Texas Hill Country Wineries (THCW) is a non-profit trade association dedicated to promoting member wineries and the exceptional Texas Hill Country wine region.
TEXAS HILL COUNTRY WINERIES – PRESENTATION AWARD STATEMENT:
“TALL TEXAN”
2024 RECIPIENT: KIM MCPHERSON, MCPHERSON CELLARS
Kim McPherson stands out as a remarkable figure in Texas wine, whose dedication and influence have truly shaped the industry. As the founder and winemaker of McPherson Cellars in Lubbock, he has championed Texas viticulture with a focus on cultivating grape varieties uniquely suited to the state’s diverse climates, like Sangiovese, Mourvèdre, and Viognier.
Building on his father Dr. Clinton “Doc” McPherson’s legacy—a pioneer of modern Texas winemaking—Kim has continued to elevate Texas wines through both innovation and an unwavering commitment to quality. With more than four decades in the industry, Kim’s contributions extend well beyond the winery. He has been a mentor to emerging winemakers, consistently advocating for collaboration and community within Texas wine. His involvement with organizations like Texas Hill Country Wineries highlights his dedication to advancing the industry on both local and statewide levels. Kim’s professionalism, passion, and commitment to raising the bar for Texas wines have earned him national recognition, including being a two-time James Beard Award semifinalist for “Outstanding Wine, Beer, or Spirits Producer.” His steadfast leadership and dedication to the industry make him an ideal candidate for recognition as a transformative influence in Texas wine, embodying the values and vision that have guided Texas wine’s rise on the national stage.
