We are retiring. Wrapping up June/Julyish

June 11, 2025

While it has been an incredible 7 seasons, it’s time for our series to wrap up and pursue some other projects. Projects that will provide serenity to our lives and a new hope for accomplishing some personal goals that have been in stasis. Time for a family reunion and farewell to 50-hour weeks, and weekend work. Just a general pursuit of life itself – running a marathon, finishing the decade-old job jar-jar, sleeping in the light (afternoon naps), reaching the inner light by learning to play an instrument, and engaging in away-missions with the family. All good things!

From a business perspective, we saw the signs and portents. Given our desire for more free time and the questionable economic environment, decline in alcohol consumption (not a bad thing), and wanting to avoid bad timing, the parting of ways was the better choice. End on our own terms vs a game-over-man end. There is no fate but what we make.

What we’ll leave behind are incredible memories of the customers, vendors, and organizations we have met, and hope to continue to engage with. Till the end of time, I will be proud of all we accomplished in 7 years. When we set out on our voyage, we committed to a set of guiding principles that we remained true to despite COVID, supply chain issues, and inflation. We often adjusted our approach, but never principals. International awards for our products, supporting diverse community groups, labels made by many local artists – we did a lot of good work from our tiny little shop in Dunmore. It really is bigger on the inside.

Special thanks to my wife who encouraged (tolerated?) this trek – often reminding me she’s a Dr. not a winery worker. Our fine landlord – yes – there are honorable people who need just a handshake. Pete from Simply Homebrew/Honey Hole Winery – really a winemaking Jedi master who encouraged and mentored me. Lindo from Sabatini’s who took a chance and gave us some shelf space on our maiden voyage. So many others to thank: vendors, event organizers, customers (honored to have made mead for your weddings and special events), nonprofits volunteers, teachers and librarians!

Thank you all! You were fantastic, absolutely fantastic!

Dan