Meet the Author: Alec Abendroth – A Journey from Farm to Vine

 

Hello! I'm Alec Abendroth, and I'm excited to share my journey into the world of winemaking with you. My path has taken me across continents—from the suburbs of Minnesota to the off-grid farms of Oregon and, eventually, the fertile vineyards of Germany's Mosel Valley. Along the way, I’ve gained a deep appreciation for the land, the labor, and the tradition that goes into producing great wine.

My story begins in Minnesota, where I grew up in a suburban environment. Life was comfortable, with Sunday brunches at the country club and a house on the lake. But everything changed when my parents decided to trade our white-collar life for a self-sufficient farm in rural Oregon. It was a dramatic shift, and I quickly learned the value of hard work, resourcefulness, and connection to nature.

Later, my family's move to Germany opened my eyes to the world of fruit farming, which eventually led me to discover my passion for viticulture. But my love for the natural world extends beyond grapes and wine. I'm also deeply passionate about bees and beekeeping. During the pandemic, I had the incredible opportunity to work with a beekeeper in Chile, where I immersed myself in the fascinating world of bees. It was a life-changing experience that deepened my understanding of sustainability and the essential role bees play in our ecosystem. During that time, I was living with my now-wife, who is from Chile. Our time together in Chile was not just about bees but also about building a life together and embracing new cultures.

Now, I’m living in the picturesque Mosel Valley, pursuing a winemaker apprenticeship. This historic region, with its steep vineyards and rich winemaking heritage, has become my home. I'm eager to learn everything I can about the craft, from grape to glass, and share my experiences with you.

Why start a blog? I believe that winemaking—and beekeeping—are more than just professions—they’re ways of life. Through this blog, I hope to connect with others who share a love for wine and nature, to document the highs and lows of my journey, and to create a community where we can learn, explore, and, of course, enjoy wine together.

So, whether you're a fellow enthusiast or just curious about the world of wine and bees, I invite you to join me on this adventure. Here's to the stories that shape us and the passions that bring us together.

Prost,

Alec