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