Our History

Founded in 1989 by Peter Botham, Botham Vineyards & Winery has for nearly 35 years been Peter & his wife, Sarah’s lifeblood and passion.

In 2022 the family’s second generation stepped into a permanent role at the vineyard. Peter & Sarah’s son, Mills, chief operating officer and assistant winemaker, brings fresh ideas, new energy and a passion for wine born of his upbringing. In time he will assume leadership and ownership of the business.

Preserving a piece of Wisconsin’s agricultural landscape

Designed and built as a dairy farm in the early 1900s, the soul of this property was carefully restored and given new purpose; its gently sloping pastures, once deeply lined with the hoof prints of a half-century’s herds and knotted with rocks and tree stumps, became host to the tranquil symmetry of trellis.

The circa-1900 hung barn, rare both for its architecture and longevity, was lovingly refurbished, now housing our tasting room, gallery, gift shop and indoor event spaces. A large outdoor terrace provides spectacular views in every season.

The dirt floor and cinder block walls of a one-time cattle shed provided the shell for the original winery. Retrofitted to accommodate wine production, it was our winemaking home for nearly 10 years. In 2002 a new, 5000-square-foot, purpose-built winery replaced it. The original building now houses our corporate offices and is the headquarters of Big Stuff Racing.

The traditional four-square farmhouse too has been lovingly rehabilitated and though a private home, it stands as the vineyard’s welcoming matriarch, beckoning visitors from across the country and around the world to enjoy our singular brand of Wisconsin hospitality.

We look forward to welcoming you.