About Us
Vineyard History
Snow Farm Vineyard and Winery began as a dream and passion in the mid-1990s to keep our retired dairy farmland as agricultural land in the Champlain Islands.
With land becoming more valuable for its development potential, we were concerned with losing what makes Vermont unique. Fortunately our dream became the dream of others, and together, Vermont’s first commercial grape vineyard and winery came into existence in 1996 with the first grapes being planted in 1997. That very same year, our tasting room opened it’s doors.
Now, it is our hope that we can provide a model for farmers, so that they can rededicate their land into diversified agricultural pursuits that keep Vermont lands working, rather than selling the lands for residential or commercial purposes.
When you support Snow Farm Vineyard and Snow Farm Inn you support our mission to keep the land open and working.
Snow Farm is situated on an island in the middle of Lake Champlain and therefore enjoys the micro-climate created by the sixth largest lake in the U.S. Our growing season is identical to Burgundy, France. This allows us to grow cooler climate vinifera grapes, such as Seyval Blanc, Vidal Blanc and Riesling to make into white wine. As well as our extensive reds including Leon Millot, Baco Noir, and many of our winemaker’s unique blends.
Thanks to Vermont’s cold winter temperatures, we also produce unique late harvest and dessert wines. Our true Vidal Blanc Ice Wine, is a dessert wine that cannot be made in many other places in the world. We produce this in the traditional way by picking the grapes by hand in mid-December when the grapes are at their best sugar content!
~Dave and Julie Lane, Snow Farm Vineyard
Spring in the Vines
Each spring the vines are pruned back to increase grape production. Days are spent together in the vines singing, chatting, and catching up on winter happenings.
The Growing Season
During the summer the vines need constant attention with tying, clipping, training, and hedging to make sure the grapes have access to sun and reach their full potential.
Celebrating the Harvest
Each fall we gather with our community to harvest our many varieties of grapes. Most make it into the buckets, others into our bellies. Reach out if you’d like to help us pick grapes in the fall.
A Shared Passion from Grape to Glass
Our love for the land and the vines shines through in each bottle we make.
Julie Lane
Owner
Bringing her drive as an educator to Snow Farm Vineyard, Julie provides customers with a wide range of special events and vineyard experiences. It starts with the award-winning wine, of course. She has an extensive knowledge of the history of the area, and a deep appreciate for the natural beauty of the vineyard that allows her to create magical experiences. Julie works tirelessly to make special events at the vineyard spectacular.
Dave Lane
Owner
Growing up on the family dairy farm milking cows and throwing hay bales, Dave has worked this land for decades. He embraced the changing agricultural landscape and enjoys the challenge of marketing a different high-quality beverage! His favorite place around the farm is out in the fields. Though, often you can find Dave bartending an evening event, enjoying the local music.
Patrick Barrelet
Owner, Winemaker
Patrick is the artist and innovation behind the wines. Patrick studied winemaking in Burgundy, France and has been making wine since 1990. Patrick’s winemaking style is a direct reflection of who he is. Humble, hard working and someone who walks softly and carries a big spirit. An awarding-winning winemaker and friend to all.
Cassandra Martin
Manager, Assistant Winemaker
Working with the wines for over a decade Cassandra’s touch to the casks, bottling line and more, envelope the spirit of the vineyard. If you have ever ordered wines from Snow Farm, Cassandra has seen to the process going smoothly. She also writes Snow Farm’s weekly e-newsletter and organizes the wine club. Cassandra is a U.S. Marine Corp Veteran.
Alex Lane
Vineyard Manager
A true outdoorsman and farmer, Alex keeps an eye on the vines all year round. Some of the best work in the vineyard happens while singing to some great classic rock. Faint electric guitar riffs can often be heard across the vines. Not often found inside the tasting room, he is best on a tractor where he feels right at home.
Nick Lane
Events Coordinator, Grounds
Nick works with Julie to help create once in a lifetime experiences for those looking to have their events at Snow Farm. He meets with couples, families etc. to ensure they find just what they need for their experience and arranges everything to a T. Nick is also often found working the grounds or on a project with his dad, Dave. He works closely with his brother Alex on projects for the vineyard and gives support to Patrick with repairing equipment, wiring, and maintenance.
We are a team dedicated to hard work, positive energy & innovation.
I love these vines, but not more than my granddaughter.