A Texas Winery That Combines Delightful Flavors with Charitable Giving
Nestled within the heart of Houston, Texas, The Cause Urban Winery stands out as a unique and philanthropic addition to the city’s vibrant wine scene. Founded by an ambitious and socially conscious entrepreneur, this urban winery seamlessly combines the love for wine with the passion for making a positive impact in the community. We sat down with Jennifer Rossi, the visionary behind The Cause Urban Winery, to learn more about her journey into the world of winemaking.
After obtaining a BA in International Studies, Jennifer started her professional career at The World Bank in Washington D.C. Her journey took a turn when she decided to pursue an MBA to explore a broader set of future career opportunities. It was during business school that her passion for wine truly blossomed. As Jennifer continued her studies, including three certificates from the Wine & Spirit Education Trust (WSET) program, she became increasingly enamored with the idea of owning a winery that raised awareness and funds for various charities.
Driven by a desire to create her own wines, Jennifer realized that to make her dream a reality, she needed to become intimately involved in the winemaking process. Determined not to settle for mediocrity, she sought out the expertise of industry professionals. With guidance from Brock Estes of Fly Gap Winery and John Rivenburgh at Kerrville Hills Winery, and as a member of the coveted incubator program, she acquired the necessary skills and knowledge to craft wines from 100% Texas grapes. She also completed the Texas Tech Winemaking Certificate Program, taught by Maureen Qualia, a leader in the science and art of winemaking in Texas.
What truly sets The Cause Urban Winery apart is its philanthropic mission. Every bottle sold contributes to supporting different Houston charities, creating a symbiotic relationship between wine lovers and the community. The winery’s commitment to making a positive impact resonates with customers who share the same values and believe in the power of wine to bring people together for a greater cause.
Like any venture, The Cause Urban Winery faces its fair share of challenges. The process of transforming an old building in Houston into a functional and visually appealing winery has proved to be an arduous task. Navigating the complexities of commercial buildings and city planning has required Jennifer to step outside of her comfort zone and collaborate with various parties to breathe life into her vision.
As The Cause Urban Winery continues to grow and develop, it serves as a testament to the power of wine to inspire change and give back to the community. With each sip, customers can experience the dedication and passion that goes into every bottle, knowing that they are making a difference in the lives of others.
In a world where wine can be more than just a beverage, The Cause Urban Winery stands as a shining example of how passion, purpose, and philanthropy can blend together, creating a unique and unforgettable experience for wine enthusiasts and a brighter future for those in need.
You can find Jennifer’s wine on her winery website (www.causeurbanwinery.com) and on Sommly. Jennifer also lists upcoming Farmer’s Market appearances and other events on her website and social media.
Her current releases include:
- 2022 Caprifolia Trebbiano – a portion of proceeds benefit the Houston Arboretum and Nature Center
- 2021 Vai Avanti Rosé of Mourvèdre – a portion of proceeds benefit the Houston Area Women’s Center
- 2021 Skýlos Viognier – a portion of proceeds benefit Scout’s Honor Rescue
- 2021 Alta Semita Mourvèdre – a portion of proceeds benefit the Memorial Park Conservancy
- 2020 Cura Annonae Petite Sirah – very limited production (3 barrels)
