Billings Backyard: Vermont Vineyards

Price:  $15/person, $10/Billings Farm member
Presenter: Sharen Connor
For Ages: 16+

For those curious about starting a vineyard or looking for creative ways to use grapes, this workshop will explore the evolving landscape of grape growing in Vermont. Guided by viticulturist Sharen Conner, this class will delve into key considerations for cultivating a thriving vineyard site, covering aspects such as sun exposure, soil depth and composition, and irrigation methods.  Participants will be introduced to optimal grape varieties suited to Vermont’s unique climate and topography.  The class will include an introduction to making verjus, an unfermented juice derived from unripe grapes, with a chance to savor a dish prepared in class.  Whether you are interested in making homegrown wine or simply curious about the steps to fulfilling that Vermont Vineyard dream, this introductory workshop will get you started.

The session will be followed by a 30-minute Q&A.

About the Presenter

Sharen Conner is the viticulturist and verjus entrepreneur for Lincoln Bridge Farms. She formerly worked 40 years in education as a learning specialist for special needs students. Her family planted a one-acre vineyard (600 vines) in 2009. In 2016 and 2017, she learned to make wine in a commercially conventional manner and in 2018 and 2019, she experimented with “wild fermentation” using an ancient technique called “pied de cuve” or foot of the barrel. In 2020, Sharen turned her focus to verjus and produced some for the farm stand and again the next year. In 2022, she obtained a food producers license and began to sell to restaurants and retail outlets. Sharen is committed to caring for the environment through employing organic methods and providing experiential education to her “farm stay” guests and wwoofers (wwoof.org) who come to help and learn these aspects of agriculture firsthand.

Cancellation Policy: There are often waitlists for our courses, so please let us know in advance if you are unable to attend. Refunds are available up to 7 days before the class is held. There are no refunds within 7 days.

Contact info@billingsfarm.org with questions.