UNION — Holly and Elmer Savage will they discuss their pioneering efforts in Maine’s grape growing and winemaking industry and the unique challenges of cold-climate grapes during the Vose Library “Zoom with Vose at 6 p.m. Wednesdays” on March 3.
In 2000, Elmer and Holly Savage bought their farm on Barrett Hill Road in Union from Elmer’s parents. In 2002, they planted four varieties of cold hardy wine grapes, 1,000 vines, and thus started Savage Oakes Vineyard and Winery. Over the next four years they continued to plant vines, and in 2005 had their first harvest. Savage Oakes Vineyard and Winery opened their doors with their first vintage, consisting of four labels, in 2006. Since then the winery has increased production to 17 different styles, with all but one estate grown, according to a news release from the library.
The winery continues to be a tourist destination offering Maine wines, local products, events, and starting with their first national act in 2016, a summer concert venue. In 2017, they continued their commitment to sustainability by adding a 35kW solar array to their 1790’s barn roof, making them the first winery in Maine to be 100% solar powered.
To request an invitation, email librarian@voselibrary.org by 3 p.m. on March 3.
Vose Library is located at 392 Common Road, Union, and is accessible for curbside pick-up services and will open to the public in-person by-appointment-only on Tuesday, Feb. 23.
For more information, call 207-785-4733.
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