Paul and Karen Bonarrigo, second-generation owners and operators of Messina Hof Wine Cellars, Inc. announced on March 4 plans to open their fourth location in the Harvest Green community in Richmond in 2020.

The company is working to finalize a 2019 groundbreaking date for the site that will include the largest winery in the Greater Houston area with a tasting room, a wine bar and an open kitchen restaurant that will accommodate about 130 guests, according to a release from Messina Hof.

A 2,600-square-foot covered patio will allow for larger, private events and group tastings. Two private tasting rooms will be available for corporate use, group bookings, and private dining, according to the release.

“For 42 years Messina Hof has pioneered great Texas wine and built a loyal family of customers throughout Texas," Paul said in the release. "We are excited to continue our passion of providing delicious wine and food in a new craft winery and kitchen located in Richmond, Texas. Our community partner in this project, Harvest Green, is an agriculture-based farm community that aligns with our passions in farm-to-table foods paired with great local wine. We look forward to growing and connecting our large family of customers in Houston and South East Texas.”

The wine company operates locations in Bryan, Grapevine and Fredericksburg. Similar to the Bryan location, the Harvest Green winery restaurant will use onsite gardens and the neighborhood's farm to create a hyperlocal menu.

When complete, Messina Hof Harvest Green Winery will be the winemakers’ second largest production facility, with both vineyard harvesting and wine processing aging taking place onsite. Messina Hof Harvest Green Winery will also become the home for all wine shipping operations including wine club. A later phase will include a large indoor event space and limited lodging, the release states.

“I envision many collaborative resident and public events with Messina Hof,” said Jerry Ulke, Messina Hof Harvest Green Winery general manager. “They are leaders in Texas winemaking, much as Harvest Green is on the forefront of farm-centric communities. Messina Hof’s presence in Harvest Green is a natural fit.”