Did you know Texas's wine story predates California's? Everything's bigger and older in Texas. Explore the rich history of Texas winemaking, from early Spanish missionaries to today’s thriving industry. Learn about key milestones, challenges, climate, grape varieties and cultural influences that define Texas wine. Also get recommendations on notable Texas wine varieties, food pairings and ways to deepen your appreciation. Instructor Natalia Velikova, Ph.D., professor of Wine Marketing at Texas Tech and associate director of the Texas Wine Marketing Research Institute, has worked with the industry for over 25 years. Her research supports its growth, and she’s passionate about sharing her knowledge to unlock the full potential of Texas wines.