What a thrill to spend time with Cristina Ziliani, owner of G. Berlucchi, in Houston, where her family’s wines are served by-the-glass in four of the city’s leading restaurants.

That’s Cristina above (left) with legacy restaurateur Tony Vallone (right). Berlucchi’s rosé is served at all three of Tony’s restaurants: his flagship Tony’s, Ciao Bello, and Vallone’s.

And below, Cristina tastes with State of Grace general manager and wine director Matt Crawford (right), who also serves Berlucchi by-the-glass.

“I love Franciacorta,” he told Cristina. “And your wine is one of our favorites.”

Franciacorta winemakers: I can’t emphasize enough the importance of coming to the markets where you’re wine is sold and making personal connections with wine and restaurant professionals.

Vi aspetto tutti a Houston!