Wine Business reaps fruit of the vine
Buddy Boy Winery and Vineyard owner Bill Warner picks out several wines for a customer to taste from a cooler behind a handmade black walnut bar.
The store, at Cove Mountain, Duncannon, is well-stocked with 16 different varieties, ranging from merlots to whites to fruit wines, Warner can take any type of fruit or juice and turn it into wine.
“Do you like more red or white wines?” he asked.
Warner works quickly after the customer requests a semi-sweet red. He places a glass on the counter and pours a complimentary portion.
“We have about eight grapes out there now,” said Warner of his vineyards.
Warner began making wine in the ’80s as a hobby. He and his wife of 30 years, Coreena, have traveled to other vineyards, but they quickly realized during a trip to the Finger Lakes that their wine rivaled and surpassed the quality of the wine of their hosts.
A year and a half ago, the Warners turned their 5.5 acre farm into a vineyard and winery.
Awaiting federal clearances, the tasting room and retail store were furnished and the business opened last Thanksgiving weekend.
Warner said during the grand opening weekend more than 1,000 people came to experience simple, country wine. He knew the winery was a success after more than 500 gallons were sold upon opening and 50 gallons were sipped during the tastings.
Warner keeps prices low. His wine ranges from $4.75 to $14 a bottle.
He believes the key to his success is not the low prices. The true “country bumpkin” allure of his business attracts small-town customers.
His wine labels depict a roughly sketched design of a hillbilly propped upon a tree stump with a glass of wine.
He gives his wine country-themed names, such as Four on the Floor, and a new wine to appear in April called Bullfrog Juice.
Buddy Boy Winery and Vineyard has been added to the Susquehanna Heartland Wine Trails in tribute to its popularity.
Warner prides himself on the winery being his first source of income.
A sawmill operator who drives to distant locations for jobs, Warner’s excited for the future of the winery. This summer, he plans to erect a patio which will be available for rent for special occasions, such as weddings and live entertainment.
For more information on the winery, readers may call 834-5606 or visit the store at 111 Barnett Drive. Wine sampling is available during regular business hours. Private samplings are available with reservations in advance.
Bill & Sheila’s Wine
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