The deadly Fourth of July floods in the Texas Hill Country took lives, destroyed homes, and — for at least one winemaker — wiped out nearly an entire year’s harvest.
Early estimates show the Texas Hill Country could lose up to $22 billion after the flooding.
The region draws thousands of tourists each year — and its wineries are a big part of that. Most vineyards escaped major damage, but Kerrville Hills Winery was right in the flood’s path.
"It was a complete and utter breakdown, man," said owner John Rivenburgh. "I mean, the gravity of the devastation out here still hits me."
He said most of his vineyard is gone — a loss that will cost more than $1 million this year alone.
"This is the hardest thing I've ever navigated in my entire life," Rivenburgh said.
He added that it’ll take at least five years to rebuild. He’s now salvaging what he can — and leaning on help from neighbors and volunteers.
