A Decade of Dreams and Growth: Setter Ridge Vineyards Uncorks Ambitious Expansion in Berks County

Can you believe it? A whole decade has truly flown by. For Setter Ridge Vineyards, nestled charmingly in Greenwich Township, Berks County, this isn't just any anniversary; it's a testament to passion, perseverance, and, well, some really fantastic wine. As they mark ten years of cultivating grapes and crafting exquisite vintages, founders Wayne and Jackie Martrich aren't just raising a glass to the past; they're already uncorking plans for a truly ambitious $2 million expansion. It’s quite a story, really, watching a dream blossom from a home winemaking hobby into a beloved local landmark.

Truth be told, Wayne Martrich's journey began with a simple, yet profound, curiosity for winemaking right in his own backyard. Fast forward to 2016, and that personal passion transformed into Setter Ridge Vineyards. What started as a modest 3.5 acres of vines has blossomed into an impressive 16 acres, meticulously cared for and bursting with varietals that thrive in the Berks County soil. And honestly, their dedication has paid off, big time! They're currently producing about 2,500 cases of wine annually, boasting an impressive lineup of 20 different wines, many of which have garnered prestigious awards, like that coveted Jefferson Cup. It's truly inspiring to see their commitment to quality, focusing on estate-grown grapes, shine through in every bottle.

But you know, for the Martrich family, success isn't just about what you've achieved; it's about what you aspire to become. With their tenth anniversary as a launchpad, they're not content to rest on their laurels. Oh no, the vision is grander. The centerpiece of their future? A magnificent 6,000-square-foot building, thoughtfully designed to address both their growing operational needs and, crucially, to elevate the entire visitor experience. It’s a significant investment, approximately $2 million, but one they believe will cement their legacy and future-proof their beloved winery.

Imagine this: a state-of-the-art production area that finally offers ample space for bottling, crushing, and fermentation – a crucial upgrade from their current setup, which, let’s just say, has been quite a cozy squeeze. Then there’s the barrel aging room, where future vintages will quietly mature, developing character and depth, patiently awaiting their debut. And for us, the wine lovers? Well, the new tasting room is going to be a game-changer! Their current one, at just 800 square feet, has certainly served them well, but it’s often bursting at the seams. The new, much larger space will mean more room for you to savor their wines, host private events, and simply linger longer, soaking in the ambiance.

The plans don't stop there, which is just fantastic news for anyone who appreciates a good pairing. Setter Ridge intends to incorporate a commercial kitchen into the new facility. Think about it: delectable food pairings perfectly complementing their wines, or even catering for special events right there on site. It really adds another layer to the experience, doesn't it? The goal is ambitious, but entirely within reach: to double their production to a staggering 5,000 cases annually within the next five years. This expansion means saying goodbye to temporary tents for events and hello to a permanent, beautiful setting, rain or shine. Construction is slated to wrap up by Fall 2026, and frankly, we can't wait to see it.

This isn't just an expansion for Setter Ridge Vineyards; it’s a vibrant statement of confidence in their craft, their community, and the flourishing Pennsylvania wine industry as a whole. It underscores their unwavering commitment to producing exceptional estate-grown wines while creating an even more inviting and memorable destination for everyone who steps through their doors. Here’s to Wayne and Jackie, to ten years of hard work, and to a future that looks, and tastes, incredibly bright.