Local wedding expert opens a new winery after establishing a successful high-end wedding business in Philadelphia.

In an exciting development for the Philadelphia area, Joe Volpe, the CEO of the well-known event company Cescaphe, is set to launch a new vineyard named Blind Fox Vineyard. The vineyard is slated to open this fall in Erwinna, located in Upper Bucks County. Previously, the property at 755 River Road was home to the Sand Castle Winery, which Volpe acquired for .35 million, as documented in county property records.

Although Blind Fox Vineyard is not affiliated with Cescaphe and will not host weddings or events, it aims to create a unique offering for the wedding industry. The vineyard will produce private-label wines to be served at Cescaphe’s nine venues across Philadelphia. These venues include notable locations such as Water Works, situated near Boathouse Row, Tendenza in Northern Liberties, and the Bellevue Hotel, which features two ballrooms and was acquired by Cescaphe last year.

Volpe indicated that the establishment of the vineyard represents a natural progression in his quest to enhance the wedding experience. He and his wife, Andrea, are committed to curating premium wines for their clientele, reflecting a growing trend of integrating locally produced wines into wedding celebrations.

When operational, Blind Fox will feature two tasting rooms alongside vineyard tours and outdoor spaces designed for seasonal tastings. This initiative aligns with the increasing consumer interest in authentic, locally sourced products that enhance social gatherings and celebrations. The vineyard’s website describes the estate-grown wines and the European-inspired tasting environment, inviting families and new acquaintances to come together.

The head winemaker at Blind Fox Vineyard will be Andrew Misialek, a Philadelphia native with nearly ten years of experience in Napa Valley. Misialek is set to cultivate a diverse selection of European varietals, including Cabernet Sauvignon, Chardonnay, Riesling, and Pinot Noir. These varietals are well-regarded for their quality and complexity, appealing to both casual wine drinkers and connoisseurs alike.

Although Volpe has chosen not to disclose the financial investment involved in renovating the vineyard, the project demonstrates a significant commitment to expanding the Cescaphe brand beyond traditional wedding venues. The name “Blind Fox” is especially poignant for Volpe, as it serves as a tribute to his late mother, Lucille, who was legally blind; the word “Volpe” translates to “fox” in Italian.

As Blind Fox Vineyard prepares for its debut, it stands to become a noteworthy addition to the Philadelphia region’s burgeoning wine scene, offering unique experiences that cater to both wedding festivities and personal enjoyment.