Growwine Members Biographies

James Bateman
Windham Vineyard and Winery

New York

James has about 1,500 vines at three different vineyard sites in Windham, New York. Although they are further south than many other "cold climate growers", their altitude of 1700, 2000 and 2200 feet MSL puts them at a more northerly position in terms of winter minimum temperatures and growing season. Usually they get about -20F at some point in the winter, and the growing season starts around May 1st and ends October 15 - November 1st. "

Ever since they started planting in 2001, the project has been met with skepticism from official`s and local`s alike. Although it remains too early to declare the area a great place to grow grapes, most of the varities we have survived the winter unprotected, grow vigorously and with great health, and ripen the small crops of grapes they have seen. The most notable varities that do well are Frontenac, St. Pepin, King of the North and Prarie Star.