Each year, I love celebrating my birthday in unique and special ways. This year, I had no set plans when Nini from Harkness Edwards Vineyards reached out to me about hosting event in their tasting room. I thought my birthday would be the perfect upcoming event, and I was completely right. In the throes of adulthood, it’s rare that you can find all of your closest friends together at the same time for positive events. For me, it had been nearly two years (my 22nd birthday celebration) since everyone last got together. It is so special to have not only the memories of time together in celebration of an important day in your life, but also to have a space in which everyone feels welcome, comfortable, and cared for.
I sincerely loved every moment of my time at HEV. From the initial meeting in which I planned my celebration, to the day-of coordination and special touches for our tasting and party, everything was better than I imagined. Immediately, I, along with my guests, was made to feel completely at home in the tasting room and the Peach House. The Edwards family is not only hospitable, but also so warm, funny, and inviting. Have you ever found a location/business so special you almost don’t want to share it with anyone else? That’s exactly how I feel about Harkness Edwards. Alas, the property is too perfect to hide from the world. You can even rent out rooms in the house as an Air B&B! Having recently moved to Winchester, I get so excited to share my love for this little town and all of its hidden gems.
I admitted to Nini, the HEV Special Events Coordinator and daughter of the vineyard’s namesake, that I’ve never been a big wine person, but that I was willing to try for the sake of my birthday – I’m a bourbon girl through and through. We tried four different selections ranging from sweet to dark/bitter, and I’m excited to say I actually enjoyed the sweetest of the bunch. A bottle of my favorite – called Big Red – is just $10 and pairs so perfectly with the cheese options HEV offers from Boone Creamery, another local producer.
It’s pretty rare to find a small business that is actively able to contribute financially to the community on a regular basis. HEV raises funds for local non-profits by donating 25% of sales every Thursday to a local cause. I honestly can’t say enough good things about my experiences at HEV, and I can’t wait to go back. Looking for a space for your next event? Harkness Edwards tasting room is both accessible and affordable. Ready to check it out for yourself? Visit Nini and her family today!
5199 Combs Ferry Road | Winchester, Kentucky 40391
Thank you to Harkness Edwards Vineyards for making this post possible!
