The Impetus Behind Our Two Dogs Whine Winemaking Venture as Husband and Wife

Julie and John Edgar

When we first considered starting a winemaking business, we were driven by a simple but powerful desire: to create something beautiful together. As a husband and wife team, our venture into the world of winemaking became more than just producing wine; it was about building a legacy that represents our dreams, values, and shared experiences.

A Shared Passion for Wine

Wine has been a significant part of our relationship. It started with our first date under a blanket of stars, enjoying a robust Cabernet Sauvignon. From that moment, wine became a consistent presence throughout our countless travels across beautiful vineyard landscapes. Each sip carried a story, and we knew we wanted to be the storytellers behind our creations.

We began exploring various wine varietals, learning about terroir, and diving into the intricate winemaking process. This journey sparked an unquenchable curiosity in us. Our mission became clear: we wanted to craft wines that not only captured the essence of our land but also reflected our experiences as a couple.

For instance, during a trip to Napa Valley, we tasted a Cabernet that was grown in volcanic soil. This unique flavor profile inspired us to seek out a similar terroir closer to home, where we could create a wine that tells our own story.

Discovering the Magic of Winemaking

The true essence of winemaking lies in the land, the grapes, and the science behind fermentation. To create something special, we immersed ourselves in learning—taking courses in viticulture, enology, and blending. We quickly discovered that learning was just the first step.

As we participated in grape harvests and tasting sessions, we began experimenting with our first batches. We produced three different blends in our initial year, each resulting in wines that showcased our distinct styles while deepening our connection as partners. This hands-on experience not only refined our skills but also solidified our resolve to pursue this dream together.

The Importance of Community

As we dove deeper into winemaking, we recognized the significance of community. Our goal was never merely to turn a profit; we aimed to build a welcoming space for others to connect with our story.

Our research showed that many small, family-owned wineries thrive by fostering relationships with their local communities. Inspired, we envisioned a business not just focused on making exquisite wines but dedicated to creating a sense of belonging and connection among our clientele. We plan to host bi-monthly local events and weekly wine tastings, inviting people to come together to appreciate wine and learn about its creation.

Through these gatherings, we hope to create a community hub, enhancing the wine experience and ensuring our success while enriching the local culture.

The Challenges We Faced

The journey into winemaking has been thrilling, but it has not come without its hurdles. We soon learned that establishing a winery involves traversing financial obstacles, regulatory requirements, environmental concerns, and the unpredictability of nature.

Despite these challenges, we remained determined. We approached each setback as a chance to learn and adapt. We became well-versed in sustainable practices, selecting grape varietals suited for our region. In fact, we discovered that by implementing organic farming methods, we could cut pesticide use by 30%, which not only produced healthier crops but also appealed to environmentally conscious consumers.

Every challenge reinforced our commitment to our dream. Leaning on each other for support helped us transform our struggles into stepping stones. Each setback became a testament to our resilience and shared passion.

Crafting Unique Wines

Once we fully embraced winemaking, we channeled our energy into producing unique wines that mirrored our identity. We began experimenting with blends, selecting vineyards, and refining aging processes to create flavors that resonated with our experiences.

Taking into account each grape's story, we spent countless evenings in the cellar filled with laughter and creativity. For example, when developing our signature blend, we invited local friends to participate in the tasting process, enabling us to incorporate their feedback and preferences into our final product, making it truly a community effort.

The outcome has been a carefully curated portfolio of wines that genuinely reflect our philosophy. Each label is crafted with care, featuring illustrations inspired by our shared moments, connecting the labels directly to the essence of the wine they encase.

Looking Ahead: Our Vision for the Future

As we move forward into this exciting chapter, our vision remains focused. We want to cultivate a thriving vineyard recognized for its quality and a legacy celebrating the vibrant connections between community, nature, and art.

We aspire to open our vineyard doors wide, welcoming guests to join our journey. We're in the process of developing programs that not only showcase sustainable practices but also educate our customers about the wine-making process, thereby enriching their overall experience.

To us, this venture transcends mere business; it is a heartfelt journey exploring the bonds we create—with each other, the land, and those who join us in our experiences.

Embracing the Journey Together

Our journey as a husband and wife duo in winemaking has been shaped by passion, perseverance, and partnership. While it’s about the wine, it’s also deeply rooted in the memories made and relationships forged along the way.

Every bottle we produce carries our heart. We invite you to join us on this wonderful journey. Together, let's celebrate the stories that wine tells, the connections formed over shared glasses, and the dreams that have taken root in our vineyard.

By supporting our wine, you become a part of our narrative. We are thrilled to share our journey with you and genuinely hope you can taste the passion and love that sparked this incredible adventure.