News Summary
Jean Farris Winery & Bistro in Lexington will close after over 22 years of service. Owner Jeanie O’Daniel thanked patrons for their loyalty and shared plans to sell the winery following significant personal changes. The venue, known for its award-winning wines and community events, invites customers to enjoy their offerings until the final closing date of March 29, 2024, marking the end of a cherished local establishment.
Lexington’s Jean Farris Winery & Bistro to Close After 22 Years
Jean Farris Winery & Bistro, located at 6825 Old Richmond Road in Lexington, is set to close its doors after over 22 years in business. Owner Jeanie O’Daniel announced the closure, expressing her gratitude to customers for their loyalty throughout the years.
The winery has been on the market since the death of O’Daniel’s late husband, Ben Farris O’Daniel, in 2016. The property is currently under contract for sale and is expected to finalize by the end of March 2024. Until then, wine will be available for purchase by the bottle or by the case until March 29, 2024.
The establishment is known for its elegant tasting room and upscale bistro, which features a large patio overlooking picturesque grape vines. Throughout its operation, the winery participated in various local food events, including Lexington Restaurant Week and fundraisers for McConnell Springs.
Award-Winning Legacy
Jean Farris Winery & Bistro has earned a reputation for its exceptional offerings, including recognition at the 2012 San Francisco Chronicle Wine Competition, where it was awarded a double gold medal for its 2007 Cabernet Sauvignon. In 2011, the bistro was even nominated for prestigious James Beard awards, with Chef Justin Thompson showcasing a Kentucky dinner paired with their award-winning wines at the James Beard House in New York City.
Set on a sprawling 16 acres of land, the winery has become a cherished part of the Lexington community. O’Daniel described the venue as her home, where she not only raised her children but also fostered enduring relationships with the patrons who frequented her establishment.
Personal Motivations and Future Plans
After the passing of her second husband in 2022, O’Daniel felt inspired to make the decision to sell the winery. In addition to its renowned wines, the winery is also selling unique artwork, including copper sculptures and a signed wine bottle from a visit by actors from the Highlander series and Billy Dee Williams from Star Wars.
O’Daniel reflected on the special moments observed at the winery over the years, including first dates, anniversaries, and other significant occasions that made the venue a memorable place for many couples and families in the Lexington area.
A Fond Farewell
The closure of Jean Farris Winery & Bistro marks the end of an era for a venue that has not only contributed to the local wine culture but has also served as a gathering place for the community. As the closure date approaches, the winery invites patrons to take advantage of the remaining time to enjoy their wines and share in the memories created at this beloved establishment.
The significance of the winery in the local landscape is evident in the relationships it built and the events it hosted, leaving an indelible mark on Lexington’s cultural fabric as it prepares to bid farewell to its dedicated customers and the memories they cherish.
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Additional Resources
- Lex18: Jean Farris Winery & Bistro to Close
- Wikipedia: Wine
- Kentucky.com: Restaurant News
- Google Search: Jean Farris Winery
- Visit Lex: The Grape is Back
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Wine
- Kentucky.com: Local Restaurant Events
- Google News: Kentucky Restaurants
