Houston – Get ready to sip, stomp, and savor—Wine & Food Week is back for its 21st year, and the celebration is bigger than ever. Hosted in The Woodlands from May 28 to June 6, this year’s theme, “Crushing It!”, is both a nod to the fun of grape stomping and a toast to more than two decades of culinary excellence.
Constance McDerby, founder of Wine & Food Week, and Jerry Bernhardt of Bernhardt Winery joined Derrick and Tess on Houston Life, where they shared a taste of what’s to come. From barefoot grape-stomping to sipping over 500 wines, the week is packed with flavorful fun.
One of the headline events is the Chef of Chefs competition, where 40 chefs will compete for bragging rights—and a $5,000 prize. Guests can sample bites from 30+ restaurants, enjoy live music, and even win a trip to Aruba. Friday’s festivities include a special “Crushing It With Cocktails” tasting experience, with Bernhardt Winery hosting the fun.
Because 21 Years Deserves a Toast – Wine & Food Week is celebrating over two decades of culinary excellence with fresh experiences for foodies and wine lovers of every level.
The Debut of Crushing It with Cocktails – A spirited new event spotlighting mixology magic! Bartenders like Danny Velazquez (The Blind Finch), Carla Espinoza (I Know the Owner), and Afzal Kaba (Musaafer) will shake it out for Best in Glass honors.
Sip Over 500 Wines – A true global tasting tour—reds, whites, rosés, bubbles, and blends from across the world.
Celebrity Chefs, IRL – Meet and eat with over 100 top chefs, including culinary stars from exotic destinations like Aruba.
Chef Showdown: Culinary Combat Live – 40 chefs. $5,000 prize. The coveted Chef of Chefs title is on the line. Will reigning champ Chef Nancy Manlove defend her crown?
The Grand Tasting Experience – The headline event everyone talks about. It’s where wine meets wow.
Crush-Off Grape Stomp – Trivia finalists stomp it out at Sips, Suds & Savor to win a Bernhardt Winery staycation. Then, see Jerry Bernhardt lead a live “vine to glass” demo—yes, with real grape stomping!
Ladies of the Vine Luncheon – An empowering, effervescent gathering featuring women wine trailblazers like Laura Oskwarek (Silver Oak) and Cynthia Lohr (J. Lohr).
Reserve Tastings – More than 7,000 bottles will be poured during the week, including rare and exclusive selections in intimate settings.
Food That Stops Time – Savor unforgettable bites from chefs who transform ingredients into edible art.
Epic Cocktail Moments – Thanks to Crushing It with Cocktails, this week isn’t just about wine anymore.
Win a Trip to Aruba – All attendees are entered to win a $3,200 vacation package including 3 nights at Aruba Marriott Resort, a culinary tour, and a Southwest airfare voucher!
Meet Icons & Rising Stars – From Master Sommelier Guy Stout (launching Magic Bus Wines) to Chopped champ Chef Lena Le—this is your chance to mingle with culinary greatness.
Wine Education That Doesn’t Feel Like School – Sip, swirl, and soak up the knowledge—with zero pretension.
Live Music, DJs & Vibes – Every pour comes with a soundtrack. Expect dancing, Insta moments, and immersive energy.
Winemakers Who Pour With Passion – Meet the visionaries behind the vintages and hear their stories.
Themed Nights – From glam to chill, every event has a distinct mood and style.
VIP Lounges – Treat yourself to exclusive access and indulgent sips in the Bayway Cadillac Luxury Lounge.
The Woodlands: A Perfect Backdrop – Beautiful, upscale, and just far enough to feel like a vacation close to home.
Support Local Causes – Your glass gives back. Proceeds benefit New Danville, Woodlands Art Council, and the Montgomery County Food Bank.
FOMO! – This happens just once a year. Tickets available now at
Sounds like the perfect weekend to you? Tickets start at just $49, and many events are all-inclusive. Head to WineandFoodWeek.com to secure your spot.
