Gruver Farms opens winery on family tree farm

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If you’ve ever purchased a Christmas tree in Cumberland County, it’s likely you are already familiar with the name Gruver. The family operates a long-standing Christmas tree farm in New Cumberland where customers can cut their own trees, or chose from a variety of pre-cut options.

Their latest venture is the Gruver Farms Winery & Tasting Room, which is owned and operated by Jaden Gruver, who celebrated the grand opening in April.

“It’s been the culmination of five years of hard work and dedication to get the tasting room constructed and up and running,” said Gruver.

From Christmas trees to grapevines

The story began in the 1970s when Jaden’s father Bob purchased 32 acres of land at 255 Stetler Road where he launched a landscaping business and Christmas tree farm. About a decade ago, Jaden decided to join the business to help expand operations. Since then, they’ve added pumpkins, a three-acre vineyard and now the newly opened tasting room.

The tasting room is located on the Christmas tree farm and, at 3,200 square feet, it is relatively large by some standards.

“We wanted to create a space big enough for residents to gather,” said Gruver.

His vision: to offer reasons to visit the farm all year-round. During warmer months customers can take a seat on an outdoor patio and behold a beautiful view overlooking the countryside.

When it came to getting the word out and operating the winery, Jaden’s bachelor’s degree in tourism and hospitality management from Temple University came in handy, as did his hands-on experience.

“I worked at a couple wineries in various positions, from being out in the vineyard, to making wine, to help running tasting rooms,” he said.

Gruver also recognized a need for another winery in the region. Unlike breweries, which have multiplied in recent years, new wineries have been slow to emerge. Only a handful have opened in Cumberland, Dauphin, York, and Lancaster counties over the past five years.

Navigating Pennsylvania’s climate

The most challenging aspect of winemaking in Central Pa is the unpredictable weather, according to Gruver.

“One season can be perfect and the next can bring unexpected rain, humidity our late frosts, which really impacts the grapes, so it keeps us on our toes,” he said.

Fortunately, Pennsylvania’s cooler climate and rolling hills create ideal conditions for crisp, refreshing whites and balanced, fruit-forward reds.

“The soil here is a mix of limestone and clay, which not only gives the grapes good draining, but also adds some complexity,” said Gruver.

Unlike many Pennsylvania wineries that focus on sweeter wines, Gruver Farms sets itself apart with dry styles. The wine is produced in partnership with Weathered Vineyards in New Tripoli using Gruver’s Marquette, Frontenac Gris and Cayuga grapes.

“These wines really shine. The growing conditions are challenging, but they help bring out the character of each variety,” said Gruver.

Gruver’s personal favorite is the Frontenac Gris.

“It’s crisp and refreshing with bright citrus notes and easily paired with light summer dishes like grilled shrimp, fresh salads, or even a simple goat cheese appetizer,” Gruver said.

For non-wine drinkers, the winery offers beer, canned cocktails, coffee and non-alcoholic drinks.

A Memorable guest experience

Mechanicsburg resident, Holly Archambo, is a repeat customer for the view alone.

“It’s beautifully decorated and the view outside is out of this world. There’s nothing better the sipping wine on the back patio surrounded by the beautiful scenery,” she said.

Archambo recommends the Vista Sweet White with notes of blueberry and her favorite, the 255.

“It’s a smooth dry red (a blend of Cabernet Sauvignon and Syrah), but it’s also special because the name came from the address 255 Stetler Road where the original Christmas tree farm all started,” she said.

Events & more

The winery features live music on Friday evenings, yoga and barre classes in the vineyard, trivia night and private events as well. Upcoming events in August include a sourdough workshop, a cheesecake and wine paring, a cookies-and-corks workshop and a paws and pinot adoption event in partnership with Speranza Animal Rescue.

“The thing I enjoy most about this business is having the opportunity to serve the people of our community,” said Gruver, adding that he takes pride in being small and family-run. “We strive to create a warm, welcoming atmosphere the reflects the charm and tranquility of our farm,” he said.

Gruver goes on to say that the goal of the winery is to make everyone who walks through the door feel like they’re part of something special.

“We genuinely care about the people who support us and it means the world to be a part of their lives and their celebrations,” he said.

To learn more about the winery and tasting room, along with upcoming events, visit their website at www.gruverfarms.com/events.html

Stephanie Kalina-Metzger is a freelance writer