Make Plans for Messina Hof’s Wine and Roses Festival
Paul Vincent Bonarrigo left his native New Jersey to work as a Physical Therapist at Bryan-College Station. Being the first-born son, he was taught the wine-making process by his Family. This sixth-generation winemaker learned his wine-making skills from his Italian Family roots from Messina, Sicily. One of Paul’s patients was a researcher at Texas A and M University who found that it was viable to grow grapes of great quality in Texas. While working in Texas, Paul met this blonde German descendent from Hof, Germany by the name of Merrill. In 1977, they were married. This marriage led to planting a small one-acre research vineyard near their home based on the information from Paul’s Aggie patient.. Grapes were harvested from this vineyard in 1980 which eventually led to the establishment of Messina Hof Winery in 1981. In 1982, the Bonariggo Family was Blest with a son, Paul Mitchell. The winery and their son grew over the years with Paul M. enlisting in the armed forces and serving two tours of duty in the Middle East. In 2010, Paul M. returned to Texas to enter the Family winemaking business. In 2012, Paul M. took over the reins as the Chief Winemaker with his wife Karen taking over the Administration. This marriage brought the next generation of winemakers, being Sophia Marie and Paul Anthony who plan to be the eighth generation of winemakers. The winery is all about Family and traditions who have evolved to the “the First Family of Texas wine.”
In 1984 with their two-year old son, the Bonarrigo Family celebrated their first “Spring-Fest.” This wine festival eventually became a two-day celebration called “Wine and Roses Festival.” This April 25th and 26th mark the 41st Annual “Wine and Roses Festival.” This year’s celebrations include:
Friday, April 25th
• Spring Wine Release Dinner
o Experience an evening of dining, exquisite wines, and artful conversation, all in support of the Arts Center of Brazos Valley. The Spring Release Dinner will kick off with a silent auction, including artwork, experiences, and handmade pieces, all generously donated by the community to help further the mission of the Arts Center of Brazos Valley. Followed is a food and wine pairing with Messina Hof’s thoughtfully curated Vineyard Cuisine™ menu. Each guest will enjoy a selection of award-winning Messina Hof wines poured to match each course, ensuring a seamless pairing experience. Every winning bid will contribute directly to supporting local art programs and young artists in the Brazos Valley

Saturday, April 26th
• Grape Stomp Competition – 1-3pm
o Bring your team to battle in the “Wine and Roses” Grape Stomp Competition! Channel your inner winemaker and enter your team of 2-4 people take part in this crowd-pleasing tradition.
• Crafting Charcuterie with Karen
o Experience the world of food and wine with Karen Bonarrigo. Guests will get hands-on experience in this class while learning learn tips and tricks to build beautiful and brimming charcuterie boards.
• Rosé Rendezvous
o Winemaker, Paul M. Bonarrigo, invites wine lovers to a guided tasting and experience on how rosé is made. Take part in an aroma lab to experience common flavors and tasting notes found in rosé blends.
• Barrels and BBQ
o Nothing like Texas barbeque paired with wine! Robust reds, smoked meat, and tangy sauces create a tasty trio. Dine in the Vintage House Restaurant for a brimming barbecue buffet with wine pairings selected by the Winemaker himself..
• Wine Cocktail Workshop
o Guests are invited to learn how to make three unique wine cocktails, sip and savor each one, and try your hand at your own concoction!
• Vendor Fair
I hope you will enjoy me in celebrating all that is great with Texas’ “First Family of Texas Wine.” In the interim, why not submit your art for a wine label by March 7th to be considered to be on a Texas wine label. Tickets and art competition details can be found online at www.MessinaHof.com.