HOUSTON, Feb. 23, 2005 (PRIMEZONE) -- The Houston Chapter of the African-American Wine Tasting Society (AAWTS) will feature the fine products of Vision Cellars, an African-American vintner, during its monthly wine-tasting reception beginning at 6:30 p.m. on Thursday, March 3 at The Ensemble Theatre, located at 3535 Main Street in Houston. Admission is free for AAWTS members and $10 for non-members.
Based in Windsor, California, Vision Cellars is one of only seven African-American-owned vintners in a state where more than 900 wineries are located. It is owned by Mac McDonald, a retired PG&E supervisor, and his wife Lil. Born the son of a Texas moonshine maker, Mr. McDonald's journey to winemaker/winery owner has been unconventional yet truly remarkable. His life-altering pursuit of wine -- specifically Pinot Noir -- came at the age of 12 when he first tasted a 1952 Burgundy. He has been pursuing his passion ever since.
Since the first bottling of the winery's Pinot Noir in 1997, Vision Cellars' wines have been served in some of the finest restaurants in the U.S., including, San Francisco's Rubicon, Jean George in New York, and Brix in California's Napa Valley. In Houston, the winery's products are available at Pete's Cut Rate Liquor, Perry's Restaurant Group, and Spec's Wines, Spirits & Finer Foods.
"Vision Cellars is working to raise the profile of its winery while at the same time reaching out to a group that has largely been ignored by wine marketers," stated Ollie Reed, president of the AAWTS Houston Chapter. "We are delighted to have this opportunity to enjoy the products of Vision Cellars with wine lovers in Houston."
Founded in 2004, the Houston Chapter is one of ten affiliates of the African-American Wine Tasting Society, a non-profit 501(c)(3) organization of individuals who simply enjoy wine and want to enjoy wine simply. The organization's focus is on exposing individuals to an array of wines in a comfortable, relaxed and unpretentious atmosphere. The Houston Chapter hosts monthly wine-tasting receptions at various locations.
For more information and photographs, visit www.aawts.org