Eddie and Jeff Frisbee, Addison Farms Vineyard
Crush, Cold Storage and Drying Facility
Grant Award: $6,000
Building on success gained through two previous AgOptions grants in 2011 and 2013, Addison Farms Vineyard has seen appreciable growth each year since 2013.
This grant helps them continue their success by improving the quality of their product. The grant was used to frame, roof and dry-in a multi-purpose building as a dedicated temperature-controlled space for storing and processing grapes.
Additionally, a covered crush pad makes work significantly less challenging for the crew by providing a shaded work area. The chilled space will also allow for freshly harvested grapes to cool and will prevent spontaneous fermentation.
This new space will result in labor savings of 10%, or about $5000 a year, with an overall projection of $13,000 annual impact on their farm.
“Building the vineyard and winery gives our family the opportunity to continue the farming tradition on this piece of property through at least the fifth generation of our family,” Jeff said. “The family farm is a key component of our community in western North Carolina. Too many family farms cease to exist after a generational change as the property falls prey to residential and commercial development. We do not want to see that happen here.”
See www.facebook.com/AddisonFarmsVineyard and www.addisonfarms.net.
Contact the Local Extension Agent