Z & M Twisted Vines Wines and Winery: Love and Wine

Z & M Twisted Vines Wines and Winery: Love and Wine

August 1, 2024 | In the news · Member features · Winery

Nestled in the rolling hills of Kansas, Z&M Twisted Vines Wines and Winery stands as a testament to the passion, dedication, and community spirit of its founders, Bryan Zesiger and Gina Montalbano. Officially founded in 2018, this husband-and-wife-owned business has become a beloved destination for wine enthusiasts and a beacon of local pride. Their winemaking journey began in their basement, where Bryan said the business bloomed twisted in love and wine, drawing on Bryan's global military experience and Gina’s Sicilian heritage.

When asked what their “why” is, Bryan answered, “When you serve someone wine and share the story behind the label, seeing their smile makes it all worthwhile. It's about that moment when someone enjoys what you've created and appreciates the art and story of the label.”

After transitioning from military service to civilian life, Bryan discovered a new passion for grape growing. Their first location, just six blocks from Fort Leavenworth where Bryan retired, is a testament to their dedication and resilience. For the first two years, Bryan and Gina balanced their full-time jobs while operating the winery five days a week, processing grapes in their alleyway garage and making wine in the cellar of an 1890s building. This dedication to their craft is evident in every bottle they produce.

Z&M Twisted Vines regularly hosts events that unite people, from wine tastings and vineyard tours to local music and food festivals. Their winery has become a gathering place for friends and families, a space where connections are made, and memories are cherished. This year, they are excited to be part of the Kaw Valley Farm Tour, offering visitors a chance to explore 30-plus locations across the Kaw River Valley, including family farms, wineries, and vineyards.

Additionally, Z&M Twisted Vines invites everyone to their Sicilian Grape Stomp & Opera event on August 24, from 2:00 pm to 8:00 pm. Celebrate and participate in their grape harvest with a true Sicilian grape stomp, followed by opera performances. The day starts with grape stomping at 2 pm. It continues with opera performances in the Wine Hanger from 4:00 pm to 7:00 pm, featuring Nicole Burkhart (soprano), Kathleen Morgan (soprano), Lisa Gerstenkorn (contralto), and Evan Nelson (baritone). This indoor event offers a $15 per person ticket that includes stomping, live opera performances, and a choice of one wine flight tasting board: 3 reds, 3 whites, or 3 blends.

Explore all their products and follow their story on Facebook: @ Z&M Twisted Vines Winery, and Instagram: @zmtwistedwinery. You can also check them out on our From the Land of Kansas website: From the Land of Kansas | Z & M Twisted Vines Wines and Winery.

 

Written by: Reese Grigsby, From the Land of Kansas program intern

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