Issue link: https://www.e-digitaleditions.com/i/1061132
92 { THE SOMM JOURNAL } DECEMBER/JANUARY 2018/2019 As the fourth most populous city in the United States with roughly 2.3 million residents, Houston is arguably Texas' most diverse culinary destination. It has the dynamic wine culture to match, and on September 29, seven sommeliers from Houston's top restaurants gathered at The Texas Wine School to immerse themselves in the wines of Portugal. The sommelier with the highest score, Matthew Crawford of State of Grace, ultimately won the exclusive springtime Portuguese wine tour. "The guests in Houston are always looking for complex and delicious wines, and they often want to learn the stories be - hind them," Crawford said. "I can't wait to see the Douro River and hopefully some of the traditional boats used to transport Port to the cellars for aging in Vila Nova de Gaia. Most of all I'm excited to learn more about Portugal's wine, culture, food, music, people . . . all of it!" "The competition was tough because Portugal is such a diverse country to study, which is what makes it great," added runner-up Lindsay Thomas of Pappas Bros. Steakhouse. "I love Portugal for its rich winemaking traditions, culture, and history, yet at the same time it's constantly encouraging innovation and experimentation to find what works best in its incredibly varied landscape. I love that some of the finest wines in the world, Port and Madeira, are still made to an incredible standard that has been upheld for centuries. You can find a Portuguese wine for every palate, personality, and occasion, and often at a wonderful value." The Lone Star State Goes European First place: Matthew Crawford, Sommelier for State of Grace Second place: Monica Townsend, Wine Director for Willie G's Seafood Third place: Lindsay Thomas, Sommelier for Pappas Bros. Steakhouse The Houston winners: Lindsay Thomas (third place), Matthew Crawford (first place), and Monica Townsend (second place). Houston somms listen attentively to the Wines of Portugal presentation. Steven McDonald, Sommelier for Pappas Bros. Steakhouse, entertains the panel of judges during his oral exam. PHOTO: FELIX SANCHEZ PHOTO: FELIX SANCHEZ PHOTO: FELIX SANCHEZ