Raise a Glass to Help Breast Cancer Patients

(Photo credit: VJ Arizpe)

October is National Breast Cancer Awareness Month, but the cool, crisp evenings also make it an ideal time to try new wines from around the world. That’s why 13 celsius European Wine Bar and Cafe is offering an opportunity to introduce local oenophiles to 13 wonderful wines made by women vintners and, at the same time, help breast cancer patients.

For the rest of the month, for each featured wine ordered by the glass or bottle, 13 celsius will donate a portion of the proceeds to Suites of Hope, which houses breast cancer patients being treated at MD Anderson Hospital.

“With our Women Winemakers initiative, we are honored to support Suites of Hope, a small local charity whose mission is to help women battling breast cancer by offering them a free place to stay during treatment,” said Adele Corrigan, 13 celsius general manager and sommelier.

The featured winemakers include: Cristini Ziliani and Elisabetta Foradori of Italy, Sarah Crowe of Australia; Marilena Barbera of  Sicily; Jules Taylor of New Zealand; Caroline Frey, Alexandra Boudrot, and Juliet Monmousseou of France; Ntsiki Biyela of South Africa; Laura Lorenzo of the Iberian Peninsula; Susana Balbo of Argentina; Haroula Spinthiropoulou of Greece; and Helen Turley of Napa, California, USA.

Only a limited number of wineries currently employ female winemakers, but more women are entering this industry, taking risks and having success in what was previously a male-dominated field.

“Not only is it a pleasure to highlight women winemakers during the month of October, we also know the funds we are raising will go a long way and make a big difference to Suites of Hope and the women they support.”

This initiative continues 13 celsius’ ongoing commitment to giving back to the Houston community. Last September, the bar featured wines curated by local sommelier Antonio Gianola to benefit the Multiple Sclerosis Society.

Located at 3000 Caroline Street between Rosalie and Anita Streets, 13 celsius is open from 4 p.m. to 2 a.m. daily, and no reservations are necessary.