Henscratch's New Owner Gets Ankle-Deep Into Farming

LAKE PLACID - Drew Jones, the new owner of the 20-acre Henscratch Farms, Vineyard and Winery, has made a big career leap, and it shows in his ankles.

Three days into "management training" from Henscratch's former owners, Jones found his ankles scabbed and bleeding from fire ant bites.

While mentor and former co-owner Christopher King wore boots that stretched to just below the knees, Jones was sock-less and wearing low-cut shoes.

"I have a large learning curve," admitted Jones, who co-owns the farm with his wife, Brooke Bundy. "I don't know very much about winemaking or farming, but I'm willing to learn."

The former interior trim contractor and his wife bought the farm during an absolute auction from King and his wife, Johanne Lauchman. The bidding almost reached $1 million for 20 acres.

Jones lived in Key West for 19 years before moving to North Carolina. He is learning everything from how to prune the vineyard's grape vines to cleaning the coops of those 250 chickens that give the working farm its name.

Jones will live near the farm, and his wife intends to continue working as a dentist in North Carolina.

"It's very big shoes I have to fill," said Jones, as he scratched his ankles on Wednesday. "I'm very excited, and l'm a little scared. There's so much to absorb in such a short period of time."

King agreed. There will be much work at the farm and winery, but the new owner should be able to handle the responsibility.

"There's a lot of work ahead of him," said a smiling King. "And he won't be doing much fishing."

The green farmer expects to make no major changes to Henscratch's operations. The chance to pick your own blueberries and strawberries, plus annual events like blueberry pancake breakfasts and grape stomping to make your own wine - set for Aug. 16 - will keep the place busy year round.

"It's the status quo," said Jones. "Everything will stay just the way it is. Over time, there might be small changes, but not until I get my feet wet and learn the game."

Jones and his wife were visiting Henscratch during a wedding anniversary trip a week prior to the recent auction.

Seven days later, fearful that the property might become something other than a vineyard and farm, the couple returned to the Heartland to make the highest bid.

Henscratch typically closes during June and July. Jones will throw out the red carpeting for an Aug. 2 grand opening. Call 699-2060 for information.

Bill Rettew Jr. may be reached at 386-5857 or wrettew@highlandstoday.com