Twin Branch Winery to reopen March 7

After an unexpected 15-month closure, Twin Branch Winery near Milton is set to reopen Friday, March 7. 

The winery, at 14756 Twin Branch Road, will be open from noon to 9 p.m., Friday and Saturday, and noon to 6 p.m., Sunday. 

“We are beyond grateful for all your unwavering support and the incredible community that has stood by us,” Twin Branch Winery wrote on its Facebook page. “To everyone who helped us along the way, thank you from the bottom of our hearts. We truly couldn’t have done it without you, and we can’t wait to welcome you back to celebrate with us.” 

Plans to expand the winery’s operations were delayed when the state fire marshal’s office concluded during a seasonal shutdown after its first season in 2023 that the business would need a fire sprinkler system. A 20,000-gallon water tank, alarm and sprinkler system were installed by June. 

Things got more complicated when Sussex County officials said the business also needed approval of a conditional use to expand into hosting events in an AR-1, agricultural-residential, zone off Saw Mill Road. Chip Guy, communications director for Sussex County, said the county expedited the approval process for the company. 

The lack of required local approvals prompted the state Office of Alcoholic Beverage Control to suspend Twin Branch’s farm winery license that’s needed to process grapes into wine and sell the product.

Now that all approvals are in hand, the winery can reopen.