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Messina Hof Winery Celebrates 41 Years of Wine Festival

Crowd enjoying the Wine and Roses Festival at Messina Hof Winery

News Summary

The 41st Annual Wine and Roses Festival at Messina Hof Winery in Bryan-College Station is a weekend celebration of wine, community, and culinary delights. Founded by the Bonarrigo family, the festival features activities like grape stomping, wine dinners, and crafting workshops. Recognized as a top Texas winery, Messina Hof showcases the rich traditions of Texas wine culture as it continues its legacy over four decades.

Messina Hof Winery in Bryan-College Station Marks 41 Years of Wine and Roses Festival

It’s a weekend of excitement, laughter, and of course, plenty of wine! The 41st Annual Wine and Roses Festival at Messina Hof Winery is set to take place this Friday and Saturday in Bryan-College Station, Texas. This beloved festival celebrates not just the delightful wines produced by the Bonarrigo family but also showcases the spirit of community and the long-standing traditions that come with it. What started as a family venture has transformed into a cherished event over the decades.

A Family Legacy Goes Strong

Founded by the Bonarrigo family, the winery has deep roots that trace back to the 1970s. Paul Vincent Bonarrigo, who originally hailed from New Jersey, made the move to Bryan-College Station for work as a physical therapist. However, his journey took a fruitful turn when a researcher at Texas A&M University encouraged him to plant a vineyard, recognizing the potential for growing quality grapes in Texas. In 1977, together with his German descendant wife, Merrill, they planted a one-acre research vineyard which commenced grape harvesting in 1980. This led to the official establishment of Messina Hof Winery in 1981.

Fast forward a few years, their son Paul Mitchell Bonarrigo joined the ranks of the family business after serving two tours in the Middle East. Since 2010, he has embraced his role, rising to the position of Chief Winemaker by 2012, and helping to nurture the next generation’s passion for winemaking.

Events That Celebrate Wine and Community

The Wine and Roses Festival, which traces its roots back to a spring fest in 1984, is packed with a wonderful assortment of activities this year. Expect to indulge your culinary passion with a Spring Wine Release Dinner, a multi-course feast supporting the Arts Center of Brazos Valley, complete with fabulous wine pairings and a silent auction that’s bound to catch your eye!

Feeling competitive? Join the Grape Stomp Competition from 1-3 p.m. Challenge your friends and family in teams of 2-4 for a squishy, fun-filled time as you stomp your way to victory!

If you’re more in the mood to create, check out Crafting Charcuterie with Karen. This hands-on class is perfect for cheese lovers looking to elevate their charcuterie game.

For those who want to dive deep into the world of rosé, don’t miss the Rosé Rendezvous. Led by winemaker Paul M., this guided tasting includes an aroma lab designed to heighten your senses and appreciation for the delicate flavors of rosé.

And for the barbecue enthusiasts, Barrels and BBQ promises a memorable dinner paired with robust wines in the charming Vintage House Restaurant – a true delight for the taste buds!

Not to be overlooked, the Wine Cocktail Workshop invites guests to learn the art of mixing cocktails using wine – a fantastic way to impress guests at your next gathering!

Community and Award-Winning Tradition

The festival also features a Vendor Fair where guests can explore local vendors, fostering a spirit of community and support. It’s a great opportunity to discover local crafts, foods, and more, all while sipping on some of Messina Hof’s best creations.

Messina Hof Winery isn’t just a local favorite; it has received numerous accolades, including being named the Top Texas Winery at the recent Houston Livestock Show & Rodeo International Wine Competition. This family-run establishment produced an impressive 130,000 gallons of wine a year, offering around 75 different varietals – a testament to their commitment to quality and tradition.

As the Bonarrigo family continues to build on its legacy, they maintain their title as “the First Family of Texas wine.” With the next generation already in the wings, preparing to carry the torch, it’s apparent that Messina Hof Winery is here to stay, to celebrate love, family, and of course, incredible wine!

So, grab your friends and family, and join the festive atmosphere at the 41st Annual Wine and Roses Festival. It’s bound to be a thrilling celebration of life and a wonderful tribute to Texas wine culture!