Michigan Vineyard and Winery Purchased by OneRepublic Guitarist Zach Filkins
BERRIEN COUNTY, MI — The Michigan wine country has gained a new owner in the form of OneRepublic guitarist Zach Filkins, who recently purchased Karma Vista winery in Coloma with his wife, Lindsay. The purchase came after a visit to the winery in 2019, following a concert in Grand Rapids. The couple was inspired by the wines they tasted and the serene beauty of Southwest Michigan, prompting them to fulfill their dream of owning a winery.
Renaming the winery to Filkins Vineyards, the couple expressed their gratitude for the opportunity to take over from the previous owners, Joe and Sue Herman. They were drawn to the winery not only for its exceptional wines but also for the sense of connection it provided to visitors. With a background in the restaurant industry and a passion for wine, the Filkins are excited to welcome guests to their vineyard and create a space for couples, families, and friends to come together and enjoy the fruits of the land.
The new owners have wasted no time in making their mark on the winery, hiring Lindsay’s sister, Melissa Feris, as the general manager and bringing on board experienced winemaker Jason Johnson to oversee the wine production. With Johnson’s expertise from California’s Napa Valley, Filkins Vineyards is poised to offer a range of high-quality wines to its guests.
The vineyard, situated on Ryno Road in Coloma, boasts sweeping views of the picturesque countryside, providing a tranquil setting for visitors to relax and enjoy wine tastings. In addition to serving guests on-site, Filkins Vineyards has also hosted live music events and other gatherings throughout the summer, adding to the charm and appeal of the winery.
As the Filkins family settles into their new venture, they are committed to upholding the legacy of Karma Vista Vineyards while infusing their own unique touch. The former owners, Joe and Sue Herman, bid farewell to the winery with fond memories and warm wishes for the future, confident that the Filkins will continue to uphold the tradition of excellence and hospitality that the vineyard is known for.
The sale of Karma Vista Vineyards marked the end of an era for the Hermans, who expressed their gratitude to their loyal customers and dedicated staff. As they transition into retirement, they pass the torch to the Filkins, trusting that the new owners will carry on the legacy of the vineyard with passion and dedication.
With the acquisition of Filkins Vineyards, Zach and Lindsay Filkins embark on a new chapter in their lives, blending their love for music and wine into a harmonious endeavor. As OneRepublic continues their world tour, the Filkins family invites guests to experience the beauty and serenity of their vineyard, where good wine and good company come together to create lasting memories.
Subheadings:
1. The Inspiration Behind the Purchase
2. Building a Team for Success
3. Preserving Tradition, Embracing the Future
The Filkins family looks forward to welcoming visitors to Filkins Vineyards, where the spirit of connection and community thrives amidst the rolling vineyards of Southwest Michigan. Cheers to new beginnings and shared moments of joy at this newly minted winery.