Just like fine wine, Messina Hof Winery and Resort has gotten better with age and celebrates 40 years of winemaking on April 22nd in Bryan. A staple in the Texas wine community and Brazos Valley, Messina Hof has been hosting and sponsoring events since its beginning. So let’s raise our glasses to 40 years and look back on how it all began.
Messina Hof Winery opened the first of three locations in Bryan in 1977 and became the fourth winery to open in Texas. In 1981, Chenin Blanc and Lenoir Port were produced and founders Paul Vincent and Merrill Bonarrigo earned their first medal at the Texas State Fair for their Lenoir Cabernet Blend. Messina Hof made its first international sale 1989, sending 600 cases overseas to Japan.
After winning two gold medals at the LA County Fair, Messina Hof’s Cabernet Sauvignon and Chardonnay was featured in “The Evening Star,” a sequel to the Oscar-winning movie, “Terms of Endearment.”
Two generations of Bonarrigos, thousands awards earned, and countless bottles of wine later, Messina Hof Winery continues to be the leader in Texas wine industry. With locations in Fredericksburg and Grapevine, this winery continues to be the home of premier Texas wine.
To celebrate 40 years of dedication and award winning wines, Messina Hof will release a limited edition collection of commemorative wines including 2014 Papa Paulo Porto, 2015 Cabernet Sauvignon, and 2015 Heritage Blend. The collection will feature the an exclusive label which honors Messina Hof’s original design and taking it back to the beginning that pays tribute to the legacy.
In addition to the exclusive collection of wines, the Bryan location will host the 33rd annual Wine and Roses Festival on April 22, which commences the budding of the vines and the blooming of the roses.
Whether you’re looking for a night out with decadent food and wine, or looking for a staycation at their cottage hotel, Messina Hof will take care of you. Take a tour of the vineyard, taste some wine, and treat yourself.
