Paul Bonarrigo, owner of Messina Hof Winery, recently shared concerns on social media about the limited government support for the Texas wine industry compared to major wine-producing countries.
Bonarrigo noted that while 50% of Texas wines are considered world-class, only 3% of retail and restaurant offerings in the state feature Texas wines. By comparison, he pointed out that 90% of wine offerings in France and Italy come from their respective countries. He also highlighted the significant financial support the wine industries receive abroad, with France receiving $350 million and Italy receiving $400 million from their governments to promote domestic wines. In contrast, the United States spends no federal funds on promoting Texas wine, and the Texas government allocates just $250,000 annually, despite the Texas wine industry contributing an estimated $22 billion to the state’s economy.
“There is something very wrong with these numbers,” Bonarrigo wrote.
Messina Hof Winery, founded in 1977 by Paul Vincent and Merrill Bonarrigo, has grown into one of the most recognized names in Texas wine. The family-owned business operates four locations across the state: the original estate in Bryan, plus wineries in Fredericksburg, Grapevine, and Richmond. Under the leadership of Paul Mitchell Bonarrigo, the winery has expanded its production and offerings, emphasizing Texas-grown wines and Old-World hospitality.
For more information about Messina Hof Winery, visit messinahof.com.
Texas Reporter 