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Winery is 'shot in the arm' for city

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LAKE GENEVA — A winery could be the cure for what's ailing the city's northeast side.

"It would be, I think, a real nice economic shot in the arm for that part of the city," said Tony Coletti, the attorney representing Doug and Kathy Jackson of Palmyra.

The couple plan to operate the Studio Artisan Winery at 450 Interchange North, and they received the initial go-ahead Monday night from the plan commission.

"I think this is exactly the sort of thing that really makes sense," said plan commission member Thomas Hartz. "It would liven up that whole strip."

The winery would include a small vineyard—grapevines planted along the perimeter of the building—along with rooms for production in steel tanks, aging in wooden barrels and regular tours and tastings, Coletti said. It also would include an outdoor patio, where people could hear live music, and a residence above the winery, where the Jacksons plan to live, he said.

But the site, formerly the Hay Manufacturing building, requires significant improvement, Coletti said.

"They're not only going to be doing an exterior renovation but also comprehensive interior remodel of the building," he said.

The winery could be up and running by the end of the year or by early 2010—after appropriate licenses and permits are obtained from the city, state and federal government, Doug Jackson said.

"If we're going this summer, it'll be a miracle," he said.

Until the grapevines bear fruit, which could be five to seven years after planting, the Jacksons plan to purchase grapes and grape juice to make their wine.

"There might be a possibility of us buying bulk wine just to get into business," Doug Jackson said. "But it would be a one-time deal."

The plan commission seemed pleased the proposal would provide an economic, aesthetic and recreational jolt to the northeast side of the city.

"I think this is a terrific start," Hartz said.