Farming has always been part of Ed Oxley’s life. He grew up in a farming family in Lawton, Mich. Sixty-one years ago, he married his wife, Phyllis, and together they raised three sons.
In 1967, Ed and Phyllis purchased their first 50-acre farm in the village of Lawton. That fall, they harvested their first grape crop. Over time, they continued to expand their operation. Their land includes some of the earliest vineyards established in Lawton in 1868. Today, the family farms 1,400 acres. Of that total, 673 acres support 24 different grape varieties, while another 200 acres grow tart cherries.
The rolling hills and sandy soils surrounding Lawton create ideal conditions for grape growing. The area also sits within the Lake Michigan Shore appellation, further supporting high-quality wine grape production.
Ed planted his first wine grapes in 1970. He has carefully maintained that original vineyard block for more than 25 years. During that time, he partnered with Michigan State University’s Department of Plant, Soil, and Microbial Sciences for research projects. He also works closely with the MSU Department of Entomology. Through this partnership, he provides vineyard blocks for integrated pest management studies and oversees spraying programs.
In addition, Ed pioneered high-density tart cherry cultivation. He collaborated closely with Dr. Ron Perry of MSU on this work. Beyond research, Ed also demonstrated remarkable ingenuity. He designed and built much of his own equipment, including sprayers, harvesters, and gondolas.
Today, the family operation continues across generations. Ed and Phyllis’s two older sons, Chris and Rick, have joined the farm as partners. Their youngest son, Keith, earned a teaching degree from Western Michigan University and later launched his own business. Their oldest granddaughter has also joined the farm after earning an Associate of Applied Science degree from Lake Michigan College. Together, the family takes great pride in the operation they have built.
Celebrating local vineyards and farmers in Southwest Michigan remains essential. This support helps preserve the region’s agricultural heritage and strengthens the local economy. Families like the Oxleys contribute unique flavors and diversity to the wines and juices crafted at St. Julian. At the same time, they promote sustainability and foster strong community connections.
By highlighting their work, we raise awareness of the importance of locally sourced ingredients. In turn, this strengthens the relationship between consumers and the producers who nourish them. Supporting local vineyards enriches our communities and helps protect the region for future generations. That is why, at St. Julian, we remain committed to supporting local farms and producing quality wine and juice—a tradition upheld for more than 100 years.
