We are excited to announce that Tara Meineke, co-owner and operator of M Cellars Winery has recently been recognized for her exceptional work in the wine industry with a Legacy Award. This prestigious award is supported by The Julia Child Foundation for Gastronomy and the Culinary Arts and was established by Les Dames d’Escoffier International in 2009 to help ensure that the next generation of women leaders in the food, beverage, and hospitality industries have access to the mentorship and support they need to succeed.
Tara’s 16 years of experience in the Grand River Valley Region of Ohio have set a new standard for wine growing and production, and she hopes to pass on her legacy to future generations. Her passion for wine and dedication to excellence have earned her numerous awards and accolades, including the Legacy Award.
Tara and her husband Matt were inspired to start their own vineyard and winery after visiting wineries in Ohio, New York, California, and Ontario Canada. With the support of those who believed in them, they made their dream a reality, and Meineke Vineyards and M Cellars Winery were born. At M Cellars, Tara and Matt’s mission is to celebrate the potential of winemaking in their region by handcrafting authentic wines that create meaningful connections between land, vines, and people.
Upon receiving the Legacy Award, Tara expressed her gratitude to The Julia Child Foundation for Gastronomy and the Culinary Arts and Les Dames d’Escoffier International for their support of professional women in the food, beverage, and hospitality industries. She also acknowledged her team at M Cellars, stating,
“I am honored to receive this award, it’s a testament to the hard work and dedication, all made possible with the support of my amazing team. We are committed to producing exceptional wines that reflect the unique terroir of our region, aligned with an extraordinary experience that is like no other.”
As part of the award, Tara will experience an exclusive three-day immersion at Wente Family Estates in Livermore, California, hosted by Grande Dame Carolyn Wente, Chairwoman of the Board and Owner of the winery. Founded in 1883, Wente Vineyards is the longest continuously family-owned and operated winery in the United States.
The experience will include learning about Wente’s viticulture, winemaking, and hospitality philosophies. Members of the Wente team will give Tara a front-row seat to their business operations including sustainable grape growing and vineyard practices, winemaking and quality control, marketing, tasting room experience, and wine country hospitality. “I will leave with a wealth of knowledge and inspiration from this incomparable hands-on experience”, Tara said. “I plan to bring back Wente Vineyards’ renowned practices and techniques to our little corner of the wine world and to put this information to direct use and continue building and growing Meineke Vineyards and M Cellars Winery.”
Tara’s legacy in the wine industry is an inspiration to many, and her commitment to excellence and passion for winemaking will undoubtedly continue to inspire future generations.
