Our Story
From a 1914 rural schoolhouse to a beloved family winery — a century of community, restoration, and the quiet art of making wine.
From Schoolhouse to Landmark
In May of 1914 the small rural community of Verona, Kentucky voted to approve a local education reform "bond issuance", and the official Verona High School construction project broke ground in August of the same year. The 2.86 acres was purchased from a local resident for $600 and the master planned project bid was awarded for $10,090 to a well known local building contractor. The following year, September of 1915, the highly-anticipated school building finally opened its doors to the tight-knit rural community where it would serve Grades 1-12 until the summer of 1935. After many years in 1954, the building was converted into an Elementary School and later closed in 1971.
After being abandoned, the beautiful and historic 10,000 square foot building sat vacant for several decades. The rough building dwindled and the land fell quiet until my father saw possibility in the property and the rich soil that once grew only wild grasses. In 2002, after acquiring the property for $75,000 his grand plans of revival and community commitment spread through the region, and he was notified that his historic building had finally landed on a very special place, Record #909: “National Register of Historic Places” of The United States of America as well as Kentucky Historic Resources Inventory #BE838 and National Archives: #123845709.
The Birth of Schoolyard Winery™
After a decade of part time construction work, the vision had all but begun. He planted the first vines by hand. He experimented with countless grapes, juices, and recipes. He read books, watched videos, and traveled to wineries across the country. A decade later, it was time to take a leap of faith. SchoolyardWinery™ was born into a small tasting room in the north wing of the old schoolhouse designed for family and a few local friends. Never could we have imagined the community support and embrace we received, and it was that inspiration itself which led to the expansion into the backside great room which everyone enjoys today.
Schoolyard Winery remains a veteran-owned and operated family business. We believe great wine is made with late-night study, patience, respect for both the land and culture, and a table large enough for everyone who appreciates it. We are not a not a snooty expensive establishment, but we're not an old country rough biker bar either. We are a supportive and friendly local community operation which loves music, friends, and wine. We thoroughly enjoy the opportunity to provide a safe, fun, and unique place for everyone to celebrate life, create memories, and make new friendships while giving back to the locals who made this all possible.
