Wine and Food Week Recap

​The 12th annual Wine and Food week took place June 6 - 12, 2016. This year's theme "A New York State of Mind" definitely showcased culinary masterpieces and sensational wines that were worthy of the Big Apple. Over 10 different events occurred over the week long celebration.

The week kicked off with several industry tastings sponsored by the Italy-America Chamber of Commerce of Texas. The beautiful Amalfi restaurant was the first host of the first event. Wines never before tasted in Texas were presented along with information about the region and vineyards.

It's a Guy Thing took place on June 7 at Mercedez-Benz of the Woodlands and treated guests to a Rat Pack style evening with poker, cigars, and big bold wines. The ladies enjoyed a A Girls Night Out on June 8 at the Woodlands Country Club. Fashion, food, and fun were in full swing during this glamorous evening. Market Street was converted to the ultimate Wine Walk on June 9 and it was a great summer evening for sipping and shopping.

The Club at Carlton Woods once again hosted one of my favorite events of the week, the Ladies of the Vine luncheon and panel discussion. Five prominent women in the wine industry spoke throughout the lunch while guests dined on a fabulous four course menu complete with wine pairings. 

The extremely popular Sips, Suds, & Tacos took place on June 10 and featured a Taco Takedown competition. The winner was VERTS Grille's Kate Schirm with a Mediterranean short rib taco served with a spicy harissa beef and a cabbage slaw. The grand finale of the week long celebration was the Wine Rendezvous and Grand Tasting held on June 11 at The Woodlands Waterway Marriott Hotel. The sights and sounds of New York filled the room as guests were able to sample over 500 wines and specially curated bites. Carlos Ramos of Latin Bites, won the Chef of Chefs award with his Passion Fruit Ahi Tuna Tiradito. The Just Desserts award went to The Woodlands Waterway Marriott Pastry Chef Miguel Gutierrez for his Key Lime Margarita Cheesecake.

Restaurant icon Tony Vallone was honored at the Grand Tasting by being inducted into the Wine & Food Week Chef of Chefs Hall of Fame. It was one of many magical moments that occurred during the week. However, the true essence of Wine and Food week is difficult to capture in just one post. There were many dinners and after parties that occurred during the week that just exemplifies why Houston's Wine & Food Week is an event not to be missed.