I am writing this article for the general public, but also for the winery managers and business owners who wrestle with the same challenges. I still remember going to my first winery as a kid.  I was probably about 8 years old, with my parents and other family members.  We had visited the Fingerlakes region and toured one of the larger factory facilities. I still remember tasting the grape juice they had for the kids: It was flavorful and rich, unlike any other grape juice I had ever tasted. This experience did not kick me into becoming a winemaker, but I certainly remember it fondly.

The winery we toured is long gone and the wine industry has changed since the 70s. Today the wineries tend to be much smaller and focused on the adult experience. Some wineries have child friendly areas designated so that adults who did not bring young ones in tow can enjoy their experience without kids. As a business person, I recognize that my customers are the wine consumers. Some have kids and some don't. Some don't bring their kids to the winery while some do. We are a farm first.  I feel it is important to show kids how things grow, where we make stuff, and that farming is a great lifestyle they can explore further if interested.

But this general, ambassador style education for the kids does not fit with the wine tasting experience that their parents will engage. For me to focus on educating the kids does not directly help the wine buying customers. When I do a family friendly program, it does not make sense to teach two year olds about farming or wine. The challenge is that wine is by law and by culture an adult product. My kids have grown up with it in their lives as it has always been my passion and career. They got an inside view the way I did going to my dad's office when he was working on a Saturday.  As they were growing up though, I stressed the age appropriate issue with my kids.

We have always welcomed families here, and will continue to do so, understanding that some of the experiences we offer are age restricted. Even at Disney, which is arguably the most family oriented destination in the world, not all kids get to go on all rides.  Parents wanting to enjoy certain rides must take turns so that one stays with the little ones while the other rides, and then the adults switch.  Age appropriate is important there, as well as here.  We are grateful for the cooperation of families who take turns wine tasting so someone can stay with the kids, as well as those families who enjoy our wines responsibly while supervising their kids.

My words on this issue may upset some people, and I may lose a few customers, but I cannot help wondering why it might be appropriate to bring a toddler to a winery?  Does it make sense to make a play date with other parents so the adults can drink publicly while somebody, hopefully, keeps an eye on the kids? Even the most diligent parents with the best behaved kids will recognize that a working farm winery can present some safety issues for children.  In our age of litigation, common sense is much more important than ever before. Many local wineries and breweries work to keep the kids safe while the parents indulge. We do, as well. Some days, with some parents, our efforts are never enough. In the future, I can see some wineries changing their policies to focus on adults only. (That being said, there are some guests over 21 who still need to understand what adult behavior is, and I can see wineries changing policies to address that as well.)

Sorry if these thoughts stir things up, but I am hoping we can grow through our challenges and respect each other through the process. Cheers.

We are closing early:  Last tasting at 3:30; grounds close at 4:00. 

  Fabbioli at Salamander

 

Bright notes of mango, banana, and kiwi

Pea Puff and Honeyed Goat Cheese with Sweet Potato Puff

Paco Rojo: 

Goot Essa Mild Cheddar and Cherry Berry Jam on mini Saltine

Cabernet Franc '14: 

Goot Essa Oregano Cheddar with Cherry Fruit Paste on Stone Wheat Cracker
 

Cabernet Franc Reserve '12:     

Ficoco Fig and Cocoa Spread on Stone Wheat Cracker

Raspberry Merlot: 

Dark Chocolate Truffle

(The Perfect Truffle)

Royalty:

Salted Caramel Truffle