La Collina Vineyards

Susan Salter Reynolds and Douglas Harp - Barnard

Inspired by Vermont's pioneering cold-hardy wine movement and their deep connection to the land, Susan and Douglas established their biodynamic vineyard on Susan's property in Barnard. Working with alpine varieties like Marquette, Frontenac, and La Crescent, they are committed to chemical-free winemaking that allows their wines to authentically express Vermont's unique terroir.

Following biodynamic principles developed by Rudolf Steiner, they focus on sustainable practices that honor the natural landscape while building Vermont's emerging wine region. From their first 500-pound harvest in 2018 to navigating challenges like robin raids (nets now deployed!), Susan and Douglas embrace the steep learning curve with enthusiasm and community spirit.

Their philosophy centers on creating wines free of artificial additives—no commercial yeasts, flavors, or preservatives—allowing each vintage to capture the essence of Vermont soil and climate. "It is impossible to express the joy of drinking a wine that we put our hearts, minds, and bodies into creating," they reflect, embodying the passion driving Vermont's organic wine movement forward.

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