Family-friendly winery coming May 6.
Writer / Jane VanOsdol
Photographer / Brian Brosmer
With a Derby Day opening in his sights, Noah Herron is ready to debut Westfield’s first winery, Urban Vines, on May 6. Located at 161st Street between Oakridge and Springmill, Urban Vines is the second business for young entrepreneur Herron. He also owns the successful retail and online homestead store Urban Farmer, just across the street and down the road from Urban Vines.
Herron began experimenting with brewing beer and making wine while working at Urban Farmer. His success with these hobbies spurred him on to start Urban Vines. He believes in following his passions.
“I love doing what my hobbies are,” he says. “And if I can make them into a business, that’s what I do.”
Winery
Herron will have six wines ready in time for the grand opening: chardonnay, pinot gris, chambourcin, concord, rhubarb and cider. He is also in the process of making mead but is uncertain if it will be ready by May 6.
The winery is located on five acres, and Herron planted a 2.5-acre vineyard that he will use to create an estate wine. He sources the majority of his grapes from locations around the country, including California, New York and Indiana. As much as possible, he purchases other ingredients locally like honey from Eagle Creek Apiary, blackberries from SurReal Farms and apples from Wild’s Apple farm.
The building itself is 4,200 square feet and decorated in a commercial farmhouse style. It boasts a wine tasting room, wine cellar, lab, processing room, storage room and office. The tasting room can accommodate more than 80 patrons. They currently have a 7,000-liter capacity to produce and bottle their wine.
Family Friendly Winery
Herron sees his family staying in Westfield for the long haul. He enjoys being a part of the vibrant community that is welcoming to young families.
“I think this winery will be a great way to connect with people,” he says.
With recently added paved sidewalks, Herron believes local families will easily be able to walk or ride their bikes to Urban Vines for a relaxing afternoon or evening of great wine and entertainment.
Customers will also appreciate the large outdoor space that includes a 1,500-square foot patio and seating area with a pergola and pond that overlooks the orchard. He envisions families throwing down blankets and enjoying the outdoor scenery or playing a game of horseshoes or corn hole.
Children are welcome with their parents. Customers can relax to live music both indoors and out. In addition to wine, be sure to try the charcuterie boards featuring artisan cheeses, meats, olives, breads, fruits and the like. They’ll be available in both individual and family sizes.
A wine tasting will cost about $5 per person while a bottle of Urban Vines wine will run about $10 to $15.
Open to Parties and Business
The winery can accommodate small, private parties and business gatherings. Reserve the space by calling 317-600-2807. Currently, they don’t have the resources to host weddings, but it’s a possibility for the future.
Be sure to put the opening date on your calendar and in the meantime, check out Herron’s websites at urban-vines.com and the Urban Farmer at ufseeds.com.
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