Eleanor & Ray Heald wrote in Appelation America, on November 25, 2008, "It started as an idea in 2002, and one year later, that idea became incorporated as Les Trois Emme Winery. Owners
Mary Jane and Wayne Eline developed a wine interest while they were living and working in Virginia for most of the1990s. The couple decided that when Wayne retired in 1999, they’d grow a few grapes and make wine in the basement of their home, located in the Berkshires of Massachusetts. Only 125 vines were planted in 2000. The Elines' children thought that this was the grandest idea. They could help with the vineyard and winemaking." The winery is located in New Marlborough, Massachusetts.
"In 2001, decisions were made to plant 500 additional vines in the sandstone soil. The additional 1,500 planted vines became a greater wine volume than the 200 gallons allowed by an amateur winemaking license. The Eline kids suggested that a small winery would accommodate the ensuing 2003 grape harvest. And here’s the real kicker: Mary Jane realized that Wayne was bored with retirement. He wanted to go back to work."
But it isn't fun and games at Les Trois Emme - it is for the guests, but the Eline's take it very seriously. They're making great wine.
The other night Dominique and I had guests over and we wanted to pour a sparkling wine. We decided to open the Les Trois Emme Kiyo's Sparkling Wine. The wine is a off-dry or semi-sweet sparkling wine made from the Chenin Blanc grape. It's really wonderful. The nose is big and fruity, with hints of yeast and vanilla. And the wine itself explodes with fruit up front. Lot's of green apple and kiwi. But it's well balanced, and had just enough acidity to really show a wonderful side of sparkling wines. Very much like a Prosecco.
We all clinked glasses in front of the fireplace, and ate local cheese (Old Chatham Sheepherding Kinderhook Creek and Twin Maple Farm Hudson Red). It was a great time, and we all enjoyed the wine. It was a great way to start the evening.
Congrats to Wayne and Mary Jane.