Dan's Papers - June 15, 2007 - Two Wines Collide

There aren't any sour grapes between these two families. On January 5th Jacqueline Entenmann married her boyfriend Jason Damianos at the Stained Glass Chapel in Las Vegas uniting two of Long Island's biggest Wine Industry families. The Damiano's are well renowned for their Pindar, Duck Walk, Duck Walk North and Jason's Vineyards and the Entenmann's are well known for owning Martha Clara Vineyards amongst other thriving businesses.

Jacqueline (Jackie) runs the 200-acre farm along with her father, Robert Entenmann. They have over 100-acres planted in "over a dozen types of classic European varietals grapes including Chardonnay, Viognier, Sauvignon Blanc, Merlot, Cabernet Franc and Syrah to name just a few." Jason, in addition to operating Jason's Vineyards, has his 20-acre vineyard in Jamesport, which is closely planted using the "best French clones of Cabernet, Merlot and Chardonnay." Jason is also involved in the operation of his families Vineyards; Pindar, Duck Walk and Duck Walk North.

The families were thrilled to hear that Jacqueline and Jason married, yet a little surprised. Jason and Jacqueline had planned a nice little vacation together and called with the announcement of their marriage. Jacqueline said that her mother was suspicious when she saw the well-packed suitcase. Vegas was as good a place as any to get married when it's right, it's real and it's totally meant to be. Who could have planned it better? What couple has more in common then these two who practically live on the Vineyards? Jacqueline actually met Jason's father first when they were both on a Board together and then she met Jason. Right away she knew that he was a good guy. They dated on and off for over 2 years before being "impetuous" and saying their "I do's" in Vegas.

Both Jacqueline and Jason wear many hats in their family businesses. Jason is a renowned and highly skilled winemaker and Jacqueline is an expert in marketing and administration. Jacqueline earned her degree in communications from Boston University and her M.A. in Marketing from Emerson College. Jason earned his Enology degree from the University of California, Fresno, and received the prestigious Merit Award for his winemaking talents. He continued his studies at the University of Bordeaux, France, where he spent over 2 years in the Enology program. They make quite a team with Jacquelines Marketing skills and Jason's incredible winemaking abilities.

When asked to describe her new husband, Jacqueline doesn't hesitate, saying that Jason is "a wonderful husband." Her voice goes up an octave as she proudly lists her husband's admirable traits. "He is very sweet, kind and has a caring side to him." Jason gets on the phone to tell me that his wife is "the kindest, most thoughtful and generous woman that he's ever met."

Ah...newlyweds. At the time of my interview, Jacqueline excitedly announced that one of Jason's latest wines had won an award. The pride was evident in her voice when she told me.

A family party celebrating the couple's nuptials was held in May and a private reception for friends will be held this summer. When I asked Jacqueline what wine would be served she laughed and said "we serve it all, we serve both." Let's raise a glass (wine of your choice depending on if you're a friend of the bride or friend of the groom, or mix a little together if you are both) and toast the beautiful couple and wish them much happiness in their lives together.