Out of these grapevines came their winery . “ We named our little piece of earth Messina Hof in honor of the lands of our ancestors in Sicily and Germany ,” Paul Bonarrigo says on pages 23 – 24 of the memoir . When they were getting started , the Texas wine industry was still in its infancy . In large part because of the Bonarrigos efforts , Texas has now become the fifth largest grape-producing state . For their dedication , the Bonarrigos ' received a lifetime achievement award from the Texas Wine & Grape Growers Association .
Throughout Messina Hof ’ s history , its wines have placed in numerous regional , national , and international competitions , many of which are detailed within the book . Additionally , the winery itself has been host to diplomats , dignitaries , and celebrities : It was a secondary location for President George H . W . Bush , his cabinet , and close friends when he visited College Station . Wine scenes for “ The Evening Star ,” the sequel to the Academy Award-winning movie , “ Terms of Endearment ,” starring Shirley MacLaine , were also shot at the winery .
The Bonarrigos vowed to keep family first , which Paul believes is an important part of their personal and professional success . Throughout the book are delightful photos that give readers a glimpse into their family life throughout the years . Eventually , the business was passed on to their son Paul Mitchell Bonarrigo and his wife Karen , while Paul and Merrill Bonarrigo continue to educate on wine tourism and hospitality , and introduce Texas wines throughout the world . In the book ’ s epilogue , Paul Bonarrigo summarizes the book ’ s contents in a single sentence : “ Satisfaction comes from looking back and seeing all the good things that we have been able to do for our family , Messina Hof , and the Texas wine industry .” IN
Merrill and Paul Bonarrigo ' s engagement photo
A recent photo of the Bonarrigo family ( from left to right ): Karen Bonarrigo ( Paul M .' s wife ), Paul M . Bonarrigo ( son ), Paul A . Bonarrigo ( grandson ), Paul V . Bonarrigo , Merrill Bonarrigo , and Sophia Marie Bonarrigo ( granddaughter ). insitebrazosvalley . com 15