Leading up to #SmallBizSaturday we are shining a spotlight on a few local small business success stories. Today we're hearing about the entrepreneurial journey of 21 Brix Winery owners Kris Kane and Mike & Marion Jordan.
Growing up into a third generation grape growing family, Kris realized that his true passion wasn’t out in the vineyards, but actually in creating wine from the grapes on the farm. Having gained wine making experience from working at a local winery for a decade and helping with a harvest in Australia, Kris forged ahead to open the winery with his parents. He was excited to make his own wines and also promote the region and the farm as well.
When asked what he loves about owning his own business, Kris shared that every day is completely different than the other. From helping with pressing the grapes in the fall to creating blends for wines and doing computer work, each day is completely different than the previous one. “It’s exciting to see my dream come to fruition. When people enjoy the wines or bring their family and friends into the winery for a visit, the connection we make with them is amazing and gratifying” states Kris.
But business ownership is not without it's challenges. Kris shared that one of the biggest challenges with having a business is all of the planning and projecting. All of the key family members at the winery have their own strengths from bookkeeping to marketing and then winemaking. "However, SBDC has provided us with one-on-one assistance as well as offering courses, which have improved our knowledge and understanding of various business topics and will keep our winery growing for years to come."
What does 21 Brix Winery have in store for the holiday season?
During the month of December, they will be running several holiday offers in addition to offering pre-made Christmas drink boxes featuring Portland Hot Chocolate and a Mulled Cherry drink. They offer gift cards, customized gift baskets and are able to ship wine to certain states for all the out-of-town friends and family on your gift list.
Kris shares, "One of our most popular events is our Ugly Sweater themed Beats at the Brix which will be on December 29 at 7pm. We will be featuring the musical group DTO and will be having a contest for the ugliest Christmas sweater."
Mark your calendars for after the holidays since 21 Brix Winery will be starting their popular Soupin’ Sundays series in January with homemade bowls of soup!
Visit 21 Brix Winery at 6654 West Main Road, Portland, NY or online at https://www.21brix.com/
