ROSE’ AND ROSES ON MOTHER’S DAY - Westfair Communications

The Leslie Family from both Fairfield and Dutchess counties, gathered at Millbrook Winery in northern Dutchess to celebrate the birth of the newest addition to the family. Photo courtesy Kathy Kahn.

Families and friends gathered together to enjoy mom’s special day at Millbrook Winery developed by Millbrook native John Dyson in northern Dutchess County, New York. After attending Cornell’s College of Agriculture and doing some experimental plantings on his father’s property, Dyson and a family member purchased a 130-acre farm in 1982 and began planting grapes in earnest.
The Millbrook Winery officially opened for tours and tastings in 1998 and produces between 10,000-15,000 cases of wine annually, including Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, Cabernet Franc and a grape varietal from Italy called Tocai Friulano. It has become a welcome destination for travelers, who can enjoy the winery tours, special events and free picnicking on the grounds on weekends. For guests purchasing wine, glasses are provided gratis. The winery’s year-round event hall compliments the spectacular views. Shakespeare’s “The Tempest” free to the public will be held in the hall on Saturday, June 30.
“It doesn’t get much better than this…we love it here,” said the Leslies. “It’s a beautiful place and a family-friendly destination. “It’s nice to have a great place like this to meet halfway for our family when we have a special occasion to celebrate…and today (Mother’s Day) is one of them.”