A new Indiana enterprise, Whyte Horse Winery, located at 1510 S. Airport Rd. in Monticello, was introduced by owner and production manager Don Pampel who was accompanied by his sister-in-law Connie. The new business is a shared family endeavor. After purchasing some acreage and redoing the 1870's farm house, one and half acres were planted in grapes three years ago. The farm house now features a popular wine tasting bar and separate banquet and meeting facilities. Ten different wines have been offered for sale this year, several of which have won special commendation. Don and his brother are both employed full time in other pursuits: ready-mix concrete for Don, and dentistry and a financial business for his brother. Their goal is not large scale production. They want to become a specialized boutique winery that in four or five years will produce 10,000 gallons of high quality wine. The audience was invited to come to special events like the recent grape stomping competition, arrange for a wine tasting or meeting at their facilities, and consider their custom gift baskets, done in collaboration with Fair Oaks Dairy, for the holidays or special occasions.
