Six Reasons to Attend The Woodlands’ 20th Annual Wine and Food Week Starting Today!

Six Reasons to Attend The Woodlands’ 20th Annual Wine and Food Week Starting Today!

YOGA, FASHION SHOWS, chef competitions, world-class wines and food all in one place with proceeds benefitting charities? Yes, please! Today, June 3, through June 9, marks a milestone for one of The Woodlands’ largest foodie events.


Since 2004, the H-E-B-sponsored event has hosted dozens of events, served hundreds of wines, supported local chefs, and raised more than $2 million for local charities, according to Wine & Food Week founder Constance McDerby.

“We were the first multi-day event in this region,” said McDerby. “With the help of longtime partner H-E-B, we have helped elevate wine and food while launching many restaurants, wines, and craft beverages. It is extremely gratifying to look back and know that we have made a positive impact on a community we love, but we could not do it without a village of volunteers, sponsors and the support of chefs and wineries throughout the globe.”

New this year to the weeklong event is a yoga and breakfast event on June 5. The Yoga Aruba Fusion Sip, Stretch and Savor class led by Aruba’s premier Yogi Master Shanti will be followed by bubbles and a tropical power bowl from Aruba’s chef Urvin Croes.

Also, June 5, the annual fave Wine Around the World Wednesday provides a jet setting experience at The Woodlands Waterway Marriott and Convention Center. Guests will sip wines spanning the globe from Japan to Spain while learning about each industry from wine pros. A global selection of foods will be on offer at each pitstop.

Fashion designers and Houston-area top chefs will work together to produce the annual Get Frosted at Rosé Way fashion show June 6. Sparkling and rosé wines will be flowing at the pretty-in-pink event and culinary experiences from chef Aaron Bludorn and chef Austin Simmons will be touted via auction benefitting the Southern Smoke Foundation. The event will be capped off by Houston icon Chloe Dao’s fashion show and an appearance by artist Shelbi Nicole with COACH.

Women of the wine world will bring their expertise to the annual Ladies of the Vine event June 7 with a panel presenting and discussing wine pairings. Tasting stations will be followed by a multi-course wine meal at The Club at Carlton Woods.

Things get much more casual at the evening Sips, Suds, and Savor event June 7. Anticipate more than 20 local restaurants and 18 craft distilleries, plus craft beers, and wineries along with entertainment.

The week culminates June 8 with the Wine Rendezvous Grand Tasting & Chef Showcase starring 50 chefs and 500 wines to sample. One chef will win a $5,000 cash prize and the Chef of Chefs Award chosen by a panel of judges including Houston Chronicle’s Bao Ong, chef Austin Simmons, Goya’s Fernando Desa, and Texas Monthly restaurant critic Patricia Sharp. The event will also induct foodie couple Chris Shepherd and Lindsey Brown into its Hall of Fame. Cheers to all!

TRIS chef Austin Simmons

Master Sommelier Guy Stout

Food
Ancient French Wellness Cures Reimagined at Houston’s Escape Spa: The Power of Vichy

Serial entrepreneur and spa visionary LeBrina Jackson

NESTLED IN THE heart of France, the town of Vichy holds a rich history in the world of wellness and hydrotherapy. Acquiring fame for their alkaline springs in the 17th century, the Romans were among the first to recognize the therapeutic benefits of the springs. They established a French spa known as “Vichy,” which still exists today and continues to attract spa-goers from around the world to experience the transformative effects of hydrotherapy.

Keep Reading Show less

Spritzes at Tavola

WHILE FALL WEATHER might still be a couple of weeks away (boooo), Houston restaurants are rolling out new patio-friendly brunch menus just in time for al fresco season! From spritz carts to toast topped with caviar, these new brunches have it all for fall.

Keep Reading Show less
Food

Alex Au-Yeung (photo by Jenn Duncan)

WHEN IT OPENED a few months ago, The Woodlands outpost of acclaimed Katy restaurant Phat Eatery was billed as Alex Au-Yeung's dream restaurant. Unfortunately, Au-Yeung never got to see it come to fruition, as he passed away earlier this year. But the James Beared-nominated chef-owner certainly left his mark — and in honor of what would be his 53rd birthday, operating partners Kevin Lee and Marvin He have organized two pop-up tribute dinners.

Keep Reading Show less
Food