Austin, TX – April 1, 2026 – The Wine Project by acclaimed Brazilian photographer Marcos Alberti continued its journey across the United States with a new edition at The Loren at Lady Bird Lake. Set against sweeping views of Austin, the experience brought together photography, wine and the city’s unmistakably creative spirit.
Created by Marcos Alberti in collaboration with sommelier Amy Racine, the Austin Edition gathered a diverse group of people for an afternoon shaped by conversation, discovery and genuine human connection. Known for its vibrant cultural scene, independent character and deep relationship with music and creativity, Austin provided a natural setting for a project built around authenticity.
The concept remained beautifully simple: each participant was photographed upon arrival and then again after each of three glasses of wine. Across four portraits, the camera documented a subtle emotional progression. Initial composure gradually gave way to openness, laughter and spontaneity, revealing different aspects of each person’s character.
More than documenting the effects of three glasses, the project explores what happens when people are given the time and space to become comfortable in front of the camera. In Austin, that transformation felt especially natural. The city’s relaxed and unpretentious personality became part of the experience, encouraging guests to engage with one another and allowing the portraits to unfold without performance or expectation.
Esporão wines accompanied the participants throughout the photographic experience, bringing the character and heritage of Portugal into dialogue with Austin’s contemporary energy. Presented by Vanessa Phillip, the wines added another layer of storytelling to the gathering, connecting place, tradition and the people behind every bottle. The edition was made possible with the support of Singer.
For Marcos Alberti, Austin offered a distinctive interpretation of the original Wine Project concept. The city’s warmth, individuality and creative freedom were reflected in the portraits—sometimes subtle, sometimes exuberant, but always personal.
Nearly a decade after the original series became a global phenomenon, The Wine Project continues to demonstrate that the most memorable photographs often emerge when people stop trying to create an image and simply allow themselves to be seen.
The Wine Project Austin Edition is a celebration of that honesty: four portraits, three glasses and the gradual disappearance of pretense.