Greenwood’s Beloved South Bend Winery Announces Closure Amid Rising Costs

Greenwood Experiences a Major Loss as South Bend Winery Set to Close Its Doors

Well, Greenwood folks, here’s a piece of news that might bring a tear to your eye or at least a pause in your normally cheerful stride. Our beloved South Bend Winery, where countless memories have been made over the last four years, is about to end its memorable journey.

An Emotional Yet Resolute Decision

Owners Mandy and Larry Cozine, who’ve been the heart and soul of this charming local winery, officially announced the closure to their patrons just recently. It’s never easy to say goodbye, especially when you’ve poured your heart into something as special as the South Bend Winery. The Cozines revealed that a whopping 250% rise in liquor liability insurance costs played a critical role in the decision. It’s one of those hidden challenges of running a small business that many are unaware of. Imagine costs skyrocketing to nearly $9,000 a year!

A Journey From a Passion Project to Wine Excellence

The winery wasn’t just about grapes and glass—it was a haven for live music, karaoke nights, and gathering around a warm fire pit. It’s those little moments that people will undoubtedly miss. Karaoke nights were always abuzz with laughter, with renditions of classics like Lynyrd Skynyrd and Aretha Franklin echoing across the vines.

And let’s not forget their wine! Standout creations like their illustrious Le Crescent, a top award-winner, along with other fantastic options like aromella and scuppernong, have brought Greenwood a taste of greatness and recognition on a national scale. There are still 25 varieties left, so be sure to snag some while you can, especially with that enticing 20% discount for wine cases!

Next Steps and a Hopeful Future

Now, before you despair completely (we see you reaching for a glass of wine already), know that the winery will remain open until the end of December, selling off its inventory. This early closure aims to minimize concerns around the very complex world of liquor liability.

There’s a silver lining, though. The Cozines, although moving away from the winery scene, are optimistic about what could come next for the property. They hope to see someone else pick up where they left off and take the winery to new heights. “With the right owner,” as Larry lovingly put it, “this place can go a long way.”

Community Support and Reflections

Throughout this bittersweet period, community support has been steadfast. The locals have rallied, showing love and appreciation for the familiar faces and warm atmosphere the Cozines cultivated. Mandy expressed it best when she spoke about the essence of supporting small businesses. They are indeed the heart of personalized service and quality products that big chains often lack.

The Cozines will undoubtedly leave behind a legacy of friendship and community spirit. From forming bonds with customers turned friends to seeing their dream blossom before their eyes, they have been truly blessed by the experience.

As the Cozines prepare to close this chapter, there’s a sense of gratitude—and, yes, a touch of emotion—as they embark on new adventures. We wish them well and wait with bated breath to see what future joy the beloved space might bring to Greenwood.

Remembering Our Hometown Treasure

So, here’s to South Bend Winery, and here’s to the moments, the laughter, and the community they have built. Cheers to all who made it so special, and to what will follow. Greenwood will indeed miss this treasure, but the memories will linger, as sweet as the wine sipped on those joyful evenings.