Wednesday afternoons at University Wine Company bustle with activity as groups of mahjong players gather to enjoy their games paired with glasses of wine. The backdrop of rolling countryside framed by grapevines adds a nostalgic charm, yet this year’s weather has posed challenges, with frost blighting the early growth of the vines, leaving winemaker Jeff Proch a bit unsettled. Despite obstacles from nature, Jeff finds solace in the assurance that he can produce quality wine.

Perched on a rise along Tussey Mountain, University Wine Company is a blend of family legacy and budding success. Jeff, whose parents have roots in viticulture, grew up surrounded by wine culture. His father, Jinx, managed Mount Nittany Winery, and from such beginnings, Jeff unearthed his purpose. After earning a business degree from Bucknell University and spending years in New York City in a high-pressure financial job, he returned to Central Pennsylvania in 2009, seeking fulfillment and a life grounded in his roots.

Collaborating with his father, Jeff experimented with wine products, leading to the birth of University Wine Company in 2011—initially starting in his parents’ garage. The flagship product, U-Freeze Wine Slush, garnered instant popularity at festivals, drawing a loyal customer base. Within years, the winery transitioned to producing bottled wines, eventually acquiring their own property, where they established a vineyard.

In 2017, they took a significant step forward, purchasing land and planting various grape varieties, although not all thrived. But with persistent dedication, they cultivated successful plants, leading to the winery’s official opening in October 2020, despite the pandemic challenges.

Today, the vineyard offers a selection of wines that include local Pennsylvania grapes, grown alongside their estate, and supports a diverse line-up of social events—from trivia nights to music sessions and food trucks, attracting community engagement. As Jeff embraces each aspect of the winery, from selecting grape sources to overseeing production, he stands ready to provide joy through quality wines, maintaining the family’s dream.

For those seeking an escape, University Wine Company offers both a serene environment and vibrant community events, proving to be a delightful alternative to more distant wine destinations.