David & Michelle Muir
David & Michelle Muir, co-owners of Fruit Hills Winery
The farm, Judson Fruit Farm, that Fruit Hills Winery calls home sits on has been in David’s family since 1852 where it began producing fruit around 1898.
But their journey of opening the winery started in 2009 on a family trip to Mt. Dora, FL for a wedding. During their time there they stopped at a boutique winery that produced wines in a small room in the back of the shop. David had just lost his job of 15 years (a story many people began to live as the 2009 recession hit) and made the comment that maybe making wine for others is something he could do since he had been making grape and fruit wines for many years for his family. That idea stuck and upon returning to Indiana, their son, Nathan and daughter-in-law, Brittany, encouraged David and Michele to make their dream into a reality.
We caught up with David and Michele and asked them a few questions about the winery, what they love about Elkhart County and where they think visitors should go on their first trip here.
As co-owners of Fruit Hills Winery, what's your favorite part of the property?
We enjoy sitting on the deck overlooking the vineyard and orchard and marveling at what we’ve accomplished over the last 10 years.
What do you love about living in Elkhart County?
We enjoy living in the country and the towns in Elkhart County are big enough to provide what we need but are still relatively small. The people in Elkhart County are “small town” friendly and that right there makes Elkhart County a great place to live.
Where is your favorite spot to relax in Bristol?
We may be partial, but on our deck at the winery!
When you've got a rare day off, where is your go-to spot to grab a bite to eat in Elkhart County?
We LOVE Antonio’s in Elkhart.
Do you have any tips or pointers for people to experience the incredible variety of wines available at Fruit Hills?
We do tastings by the flight, and you can try any 5 of our wines. We have a large variety of wines from very dry to very sweet so there's something for everyone.
We know that Fruit Hills is a must-stop-at when in Elkhart County. What else would you say is a must-see or a must-do for visitors?
Oh gosh, there are so many! Wellfield Botanical Gardens, Bonneyville Mill County Park, the RV Museum and Ruthmere Museum are just of a few of the great places to visit in Elkhart County.
What would you tell someone looking to relocate their family to Elkhart County?
Great schools, great people, and a wonderful climate in January (we also have jokes - LOL).
Contact David & Michelle Muir, co-owners of Fruit Hills Winery
p: (574) 848-9463
Love where you live. Live where you love.
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