Storms, Grit, and Candlelight: A Weekend at Prime Vine Winery We’ll Never Forget

By Kerri Gleisinger, General Manager & Event Coordinator at Prime Vine Winery

Mother Nature threw us a curveball this weekend—and while the skies were wild, what happened behind the scenes reminded me exactly why I love this place and the people who bring it to life.

Friday night had been one for the books—busy, full of energy, and the kind of evening that makes this winery feel magical. Sandy had just wrapped up cleaning around 10:30 p.m. I stayed behind to work on some boards when, right around 11, the storm rolled in fast. They haven’t officially called it a tornado, but trust me—I’ve been through a few, and this had all the markings.

Power cut out. I waited for a break in the wind and tried to leave around 11:30. The main drive was already blocked by downed trees. I reversed to find another way and—bam—a branch came down right behind me. I heard cracking above and thought, nope, not today. I drove across the grass to get out safely.

The entire property was a mess—trees down near the tent, food truck, and the entrance. I called Julie while navigating out. Then made sure our three Harvest Host campers were all accounted for and safe. After catching maybe an hour and a half of sleep, my husband and I were back up with tow chains in hand.

Meanwhile, Julie had already called Jim, who had been driving all night. He arrived with zero sleep and was ready to work. Andrew showed up bright and early, and by 8:30 a.m., they had the driveway cleared. Jim was on the tractor, John Andrews Landscaping had the bobcat, and they took on that storm like it never had a chance.

I spent about four hours clearing the patio—thankfully, the tent held up beautifully. I called in the girls early to help start setting up for the event, and they jumped right in, no hesitation.

Still no power. No running water. But we weren’t canceling.

We moved all the food from the winery and the Carriage House to off-site fridges and freezers to keep it safe. Rich brought in our generator to save what we could. Duane, Rich, and one of Jim’s electrician friends tried to hook up more power, but we’ll need a super-sized generator next time. So, we got creative.

That night’s event? It went off by candlelight. And somehow, it was even more beautiful because of it.

The party host, Nancy, and I were in constant contact all morning. She kept her guests informed, stayed calm and gracious, and together, we made it work.

We didn’t just pull off an event—we proved what Prime Vine is made of.

It’s not just the wine (though we do pour our heart into that, too). It’s the people. It’s the passion. It’s the commitment to our guests and to each other.

Storms will come and go—but this team, this place, this spirit? Unshakable.

– Kerri & The Prime Vine Winery Family

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