With support from Market One, St. Julian Winery & Distillery has secured a $100,000 grant from the Michigan Department of Agriculture & Rural Development (MDARD). Through this funding, the winery will expand premium wine production and improve overall efficiency. Specifically, St. Julian will add a new centrifuge to its winemaking process. Ultimately, this investment will benefit not only the winery but also the surrounding community.
“At St. Julian, we approach each harvest with the goal of making wines that can compete on a world stage,” said Nancie Oxley, Vice President of Winemaking at St. Julian. “Strategic investments in winemaking equipment play a critical role during our busiest time of year. As a result, these upgrades improve efficiency throughout the production process.”
She added, “We are excited that MDARD selected St. Julian to receive this grant. With the new centrifuge, we can support premium wine production and continue innovating in an increasingly competitive wine market.”
Currently, St. Julian produces approximately 1,000,000 gallons of wine each year. With that in mind, the centrifuge will act as a catalyst for increased production volume and expanded distribution. In turn, premium wine production will rise by five percent.
In addition, St. Julian processes more fruit than needed for its branded wines. As a result, the winery distributes excess raw product to other producers. At present, St. Julian works with more than 100 bulk wine customers. Looking ahead, the new centrifuge will help grow that list with several new customers in the coming year.
Moreover, St. Julian produces private label wines for other wineries. By improving efficiency, the centrifuge will reduce bottling costs. Consequently, St. Julian can offer more competitive pricing and expand its private label customer base.
Beyond production benefits, the grant will also positively impact the local community. Currently, the wine production process sends approximately 8,000 pounds of solid waste into the local wastewater system. With the new centrifuge in place, that number will drop by roughly 2,000 pounds. As a result, the Village of Paw Paw’s sewer system will experience less strain, while recycling costs at the treatment facility will decrease.
“We continuously evaluate ways to improve the sustainability of our local utilities,” said Will Joseph, Village of Paw Paw Manager. “In this case, we appreciate St. Julian’s forward-thinking approach and the positive impact this grant will have on the village’s wastewater system.”
He added, “Equally important, Market Van Buren played a key role in securing this grant. Their expertise helps local businesses pursue meaningful funding opportunities.”
“This project allowed us to support both private and public sector investors,” said Sarah Snoeyink, Programs and Projects Manager at Market One. “Because St. Julian and the Village of Paw Paw both invest in economic development, we can help businesses win grants that strengthen local communities.”
She concluded, “Above all, our mission focuses on creating economic growth in Cass and Van Buren Counties. This grant directly supports that goal.”
