A Toast to Satek Winery’s Tenth Anniversary

It’s been ten years since Fremont-based Satek Winery opened. But as they say, time passes quickly when you’re having fun. And for the most part, it has been fun for owners Larry and Pam Satek, who established the vineyard on land that once was working apple orchard owned by her great-grandfather. “We especially love to have people come and sit at the picnic tables, enjoy cheese and crackers and wine,” Pam Satek said. “People have a lot of fun up here.” Many gallons, medals, and class awards later, the venue has become a popular destination renowned for innovative events such as WINOS (Women in Need of Shopping), a monthly girls’ night out. “Last year we began WINOS, which is extremely popular,” Larry Satek said. “It’s always sold out.” Earlier this year, for the first time, we did a library tasting with some of our older wines. These are samplings of some of the first wines we did, primarily red and dry, which age well. We were really pleased at how they’ve held up, and plan another tasting later this year.” Despite their success, the Sateks continue to challenge themselves and produce new wines for an ever-increasing consumer base. “We produced our first tawny port this year and will release it July 1 during our anniversary week,” he said. The wine is a blend of every port they’ve made, aged in oak barrels. “We add to it each year,” he said,” and this is the first year we’ll take some out. We’re calling it “Decennial” to celebrate our tenth anniversary.” The Sateks have also collaborated with successful online Groupon and Fremont restaurant Timbuktoo’s in presenting “Wine 101.” The hour-long course on wine eduction and food pairing has been extremely successful, Satek said, and allows them to spend more time with each individual than they’re generally able to. “We are just overwhelmed from the support we’ve gotten from northeast Indiana.” Pam Satek said. “It’s just been fantastic. My family has been here many generations. We love the community, enjoy the lake, and really enjoy the winery.”