Our Story
In the bustling maze of the corporate world, where monotony reigned supreme, we found ourselves yearning for a departure from the ordinary. And so, with an audacious leap into the unknown, we embraced a radical change – we became vineyard owners. The decision marked the inception of an extraordinary adventure, a journey that would transform us from corporate warriors to humble farmers, reconnecting us with the essence of life.
In the early days of 2012, we took possession of a neglected plot affectionately dubbed “the stick” vineyard by the locals, a testament to the bamboo stakes that dotted its landscape. Planted in 2007, the vineyard had languished in obscurity, yearning for revival. Alongside it stood a charming yet weathered farmhouse, whispering stories of its own history and waiting patiently for a loving touch.
To our delight, the vineyard yielded a modest harvest in that inaugural year – a bountiful gift that presented us with the challenge of what to do with the grapes. Linda, with her aversion to waste, seized the opportunity, and our journey into winemaking commenced. The first creation, a Chardonnay, not only marked our initiation into the world of viticulture but also ignited Linda’s passion for crafting fine wines. More profoundly, it was in this quaint corner of Palisade that we discovered a welcoming community, a supportive network that would become an integral part of our new life.
Gary, whose expertise once lay in the restoration of vintage cars, transitioned seamlessly from a career in Mercedes Benz parts distribution to becoming the steward of a remarkable collection of vintage Benz’s in need of revival. His first conquest, a 1963 VW Bug, led the way, followed by a VW Squareback, forming the foundation for a captivating portfolio of automotive nostalgia displayed on our property.
Restoration became the heartbeat of our existence – not just a hobby, but a passion that infused purpose into our daily lives. We reveled in the art of improvement, renovation, and revival. Yet, the most profound restoration occurred within ourselves. This extraordinary adventure, with its trials and triumphs, breathed new life into our spirits, rejuvenating us in ways we never imagined possible. In the vineyard and amidst the vintage cars, we found not just a livelihood but a profound connection to the essence of our true selves.