BBQ in Texas versus Republic of Georgia

By Paul V Bonarrigo, Co-Founder

Wine brings people together just as food brings people together.  BBQ in the Republic of Georgia and at Messina Hof in Texas have a common link.  Both are cooked with grapevine wood.  Grapevine wood burns fast and creates wonderful hot coals that are fantastic for grilling and provide a great aroma.

The Republic of Georgia is well known for its grilled meats or Shashlik.  Georgian grilling is usually lamb, chicken and pork served kabob style.  In Georgia it is a tradition to drink wine while cooking just as we do here at Messina Hof Winery.  Meat is marinated in wine providing the food and wine bridge that marries the flavors of the meat and the wine.  It also helps to tenderize the meat.

BBQ at Messina Hof Winery in Texas also uses grapevine wood.  Here our most common meat is beef but we also use chicken and pork cooked directly on the grill.  My favorite grill is an egg-shaped grill that allows me to cook pizza at 800 degrees F and smoke meat at 250 degrees F.  A very versatile grill.

Wine and food bring people together.  The people of the Republic of Georgia and Texas love grilling and enjoying wine.