Taste Texas and Italy side by side with 8 wines, food pairings, expert insights, and the debut of our new 2023 Texas Passito Reserve.

Join us for an unforgettable afternoon exploring the wines of Texas and Italy side by side. Taste four Bending Branch wines alongside four Italian wines crafted from the same or similar grape varieties, and discover how terroir, climate, and winemaking traditions influence each wine's unique expression.

The tasting will be led by Bending Branch COO Jennifer Cernosek, Owner and Executive Winemaker Bob Young, and Dino Chronopoulos, Italian wine expert and importer/distributor in the U.S. Dr. Bob and Jennifer will share insights into the Texas wines, while Dino will guide guests through the Italian selections, offering a deeper understanding of the regions, grapes, and traditions behind each bottle.

As a special highlight of the event, guests will be among the first to experience the release of Bending Branch's new 2023 Texas Passito Reserve, Texas Hill Country, an Amarone-style wine inspired by the traditional Italian appassimento method.

Each wine pairing will be complemented by four thoughtfully selected pairings from La Calabria Pizzeria, creating a delicious journey through two celebrated wine cultures. Whether you're a seasoned wine enthusiast or simply curious about the connection between Texas and Italy, this immersive tasting promises exceptional wines, expert insights, and memorable flavors.

Featured wines and pairings:

Borgo Stajnbech – Malbec IGT

and

2020 Malbec, Tallent Vineyards

Paired with Italian Slider with Mortadella, Peppered Salami, Provolone, with Zesty Italian Dressing

Ida Agnoletti – Seneca IGT

and

2019 Cabernet Sauvignon, Newsom Vineyards

Paired with Bolognese with Pappardelle

Ugolini Amarone Della Valpolicella – Valle Alta DOCG

and

2023 Texas Passito Reserve, Texas Hill Country

Paired with Prosciutto on Crostini with Aged Parmesan

Borgese – Sagrantino DOCG

and

2019 Sagrantino, Texas High Plains

Paired with Calabrian Pizza with Signature Sauce, Mozzarella, Calabrian Sausage, Pepperoni, and Garlic

Attendees will have the opportunity to purchase the Italian wines at the event.

The seated event will be held in the barrel room at Bending Branch Winery. Early bird pricing available through July 5.