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Messina Hof hosts harvest festival, inviting families to pick, stomp grapes, and sip wine

Messina Hof Winery Celebrates Annual Harvest Festival with Family-Friendly Grape-Picking, Stomping, and Wine Sipping

BRYAN, Texas – In the heart of Texas wine country, Messina Hof Winery is once again transforming its lush vineyards into a vibrant playground for families and wine enthusiasts alike. On July 26, 2025, the winery hosted its much-anticipated Harvest Festival, drawing crowds from across the state and beyond to participate in the timeless traditions of grape harvesting. The event, a staple in the Bryan-College Station community, invited attendees of all ages to roll up their sleeves, pick ripe grapes straight from the vine, stomp them in classic fashion, and, for the adults, savor sips of the winery's award-winning vintages. What started as a small gathering decades ago has blossomed into a full-fledged celebration of agriculture, culture, and community spirit, embodying the essence of Texas hospitality.

The festival kicked off early in the morning under the warm Texas sun, with the air filled with the sweet scent of ripening grapes and the sounds of laughter echoing through the rows of vines. Messina Hof, founded in 1977 by Paul and Merrill Bonarrigo, has long been a pioneer in the Texas wine industry. The winery's roots trace back to the couple's passion for winemaking, inspired by Paul's Italian heritage and Merrill's Texas upbringing. Over the years, Messina Hof has grown from a modest operation into one of the state's most acclaimed wineries, producing over 50 varieties of wine and earning numerous awards at international competitions. The Harvest Festival serves as a nod to this legacy, allowing visitors to experience the labor and joy that go into every bottle.

Families arrived in droves, many dressed in casual attire ready for a day of hands-on fun. The highlight for many was the grape-picking activity, where participants were given baskets and shears to harvest clusters of grapes from the vineyard's meticulously tended vines. Winery staff, including experienced viticulturists, guided groups through the process, explaining the nuances of grape varieties like Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, and the winery's signature ports. "It's not just about picking grapes; it's about connecting with the land," said Karen Bonarrigo, CEO of Messina Hof and daughter-in-law of the founders. "We want families to understand where their food and wine come from, and there's no better way than getting your hands dirty in the vineyard."

For the younger attendees, the event was designed to be educational and entertaining, steering clear of anything that might exclude children. Kids under 12 participated in non-alcoholic versions of the activities, such as stomping grapes in shallow tubs to create "grape juice" rather than wine. This family-oriented approach has made the festival a beloved tradition for multi-generational groups. One parent, local resident Maria Gonzalez, shared her experience: "My kids love the stomping part – it's like stepping into a scene from an old movie. They learn about farming without even realizing it, and we get to enjoy some quality time together." The stomping stations were set up with large wooden vats, complete with safety measures to ensure everyone could join in without worry. Participants donned aprons and removed their shoes, channeling their inner Lucille Ball as they squished the grapes underfoot, the juice splashing and staining their feet a vibrant purple.

Of course, no harvest festival at a winery would be complete without the wine. For those 21 and older, the event featured guided tastings of Messina Hof's latest releases, including robust reds, crisp whites, and dessert wines. Sommeliers led sessions in the winery's elegant tasting room, pairing wines with local cheeses, charcuterie, and fresh-baked breads from nearby artisans. The festival also included a special "Blessing of the Vines" ceremony, a tradition rooted in the Bonarrigo family's faith, where a local priest offered prayers for a bountiful harvest. This spiritual element added a layer of depth to the festivities, reminding attendees of the historical and cultural significance of winemaking.

Beyond the core activities, the Harvest Festival offered a smorgasbord of additional attractions to keep the energy high throughout the day. Live music filled the air, with local bands performing folk, country, and jazz tunes on a stage overlooking the vineyards. Food trucks lined the grounds, serving everything from gourmet tacos and barbecue to artisanal pizzas topped with ingredients sourced from the winery's own gardens. For those seeking a deeper dive, guided tours of the winery's production facilities were available, showcasing the crushing, fermenting, and aging processes that turn grapes into fine wine. Educational seminars covered topics like sustainable farming practices, with Messina Hof highlighting its commitment to eco-friendly viticulture, including water conservation and organic pest control methods.

The event's inclusivity extended to accessibility, with wheelchair-friendly paths through the vineyards and shaded areas for those needing a break from the sun. Ticket prices were kept reasonable, starting at $25 for adults and free for children under 12, making it an affordable outing for families. Proceeds from the festival support local charities, including agricultural education programs in Bryan-College Station schools, further cementing Messina Hof's role as a community pillar.

As the day progressed, the festival evolved into an evening affair with a sunset grape stomp competition, where teams vied for prizes like custom-labeled wine bottles. The competitive yet lighthearted atmosphere fostered new friendships and memorable moments. Attendees like first-time visitor John Ramirez from Houston remarked, "I came for the wine, but I stayed for the experience. Picking grapes with my family and learning about the process – it's something we'll talk about for years."

Messina Hof's Harvest Festival isn't just an event; it's a testament to the enduring appeal of agritourism in Texas. In a state better known for oil and cattle, the wine industry has carved out a niche, with Messina Hof leading the charge. The winery's expansion to multiple locations, including Hill Country and East Texas outposts, has broadened its reach, but the original Bryan estate remains the heart of operations. Events like this festival draw over 5,000 visitors annually, boosting local tourism and economy.

Looking ahead, the Bonarrigo family plans to continue innovating, perhaps incorporating virtual reality tours or expanded culinary pairings in future festivals. But for now, the 2025 edition stands as a resounding success, blending tradition with modern fun. As the sun set over the vines, festival-goers departed with baskets of fresh grapes, bottles of wine, and hearts full of joy – a perfect encapsulation of what makes Messina Hof's Harvest Festival a must-attend event.

For those who missed out, Messina Hof encourages planning ahead for next year's celebration. More details can be found on their website, where reservations for tours and tastings are available year-round. In a world of fast-paced living, this festival reminds us to slow down, savor the moment, and appreciate the fruits of the earth – quite literally.

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