Justin Vann Named Iron Sommelier in Periwinkle’s Annual Food and Wine Fete and Wine Pro Competish

Justin Vann Named Iron Sommelier in Periwinkle’s Annual Food and Wine Fete and Wine Pro Competish

Julie Dalton, Todd Burford

IN THE RUN-UP to Thanksgiving tippling, one Houston nonprofit got very serious about wine!


The Periwinkle Foundation, which provides programs it says positively change the lives of children, young adults and families who are challenged by cancer and other life-threatening illnesses at Texas Children's Hospital, hosted its annual Iron Sommelier. The event is a top-tier wine-tasting and competition among wine pros.

"Each competing sommelier selected three wines which focused on a particular wine region grape or style," explained a rep for organizers of the event, "and a panel of judges rated wine choice, presentation, creativity, and knowledge of their wine selections."

Out of concern for the ongoing Covid pandemic, the annual event was help virtually this year, with a grand meal and flight of tasting wines sent to all guests. Presentation from the competing somms and guest winemakers were live-streamed.

Noted and popular sommelier Justin Vann of Nancy's Hustle took home the title of Iron Sommelier 2021 with his cheeky "Italian White Wine: Drink It (with your Mouth)!" theme. March's Austin Farina was first runner-up and also won the People's Choice pirze. Andres Blanco of Le Jardinier was second runner-up, and Adele Corrigan, 13 celsius Wine Bar was honored as having the best presentation.

In the end, the event raised nearly $400,000 for Periwinkle's Camps, Arts and Survivor program.

Chris LaFavers

Competing sommeliers at The Periwinkle Foundation's Iron Sommelier 2021

Doug Suggitt, Executive Director of The Periwinkle Foundation

Elizabeth and Frank Karkowsky, Phyllis and Ronald Steinhart, David Steinhart

Gloria Sanders

Lorrie Lee, Miranda Lee, Winnie Hart, Vishal Sethi

Matthew Massey

Paul Stenhouse, Michael Cogan

Parties
Chapman & Kirby Launches Free Concert Series for Spring

Danny Ray and the Atlantic Street Band performs May 31 (photo from dannyrayatlanticstreetband.com)

CHAPMAN & KIRBY, THE premier event destination in Houston’s East Village, is thrilled to announce the launch of its Spring Music Series, kicking off on Friday, April 12. Chapman & Kirby has become synonymous with top-tier events and unforgettable experiences, many attended by celebrities both local and worldwide. With concert ticket prices soaring to hundreds and even thousands of dollars in the last year, this eight-week music series promises to be a welcomed opportunity to engage with live music for free, showcasing an eclectic lineup of talented acts.

Keep Reading Show less

ONE OF THE many amazing things about William Shakespeare is how well his comedies and tragedies communicate when reimagined in contemporary settings. Shakespeare’s language may be highfalutin, but the Bard always had his ear to the street — and always gave audiences a healthy dose of grand guignol (i.e. blood and more blood) along with the poetry.

Keep Reading Show less
Art + Entertainment

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