by Joel FitzPatrick
A decision made five years ago paved the way for a dream to become a reality.
Maryland native Candy Dietrick traveled to South Carolina to visit family, and found it tough to leave.
“We (Dietrick and her husband) really like the area,” Detrick said. “So we decided to purchase a home and move here.”
In their home, the couple did something that would soon become a much bigger part of their lives.
“My husband and I made wine at home,” Dietrick said. “He doesn’t drink, but I got fascinated in the wine making process. It just became a dream to own our own business.”
That dream would come to fruition. The Dietrick’s visited wineries around the area, including one in Enoree called the Old Rock Quarry Winery.
The winery opened in August of 2017, but the original owners were looking to sell. They found a buyer in Dietrick, who officially became the owner (the only female winery owner in the state) in April. In August, she and her husband held a party to celebrate the two-year anniversary of the winery.
“Everyone says our winery is unique,” Dietrick said. “We are normal, every day laid back folks. It’s kind of like a big family here.”
That family includes people from the area, and some who aren’t.
“A lot of locals come and will hang out,” Dietrick said. “There are also a lot of passers-by who just need to get off the highway for a while and will stop.”
Those who make the trip to the winery, located at 620 Old Rock Quarry Road, soon discover what makes it unique and special.
“We have the sweetest wines in South Carolina,” Dietrick said. “Peachy Keen and Lime In Da Coconut are our most popular, and Blackberry Banger is also really popular. Our Raspberry Giggles also recently earned a medal (Gold in the 2019 Palmetto Wine Competition).”
Visitors can purchase entire bottles for as little $13.99, by the glass at either $6 or $7, or tastings at seven for $7 or 10 for $10. Gift baskets and gift certificates are also available.
Dietirck likes to host at least one special event each month. On Sept. 14 from 5-8 p.m., the winery will host its Fall Kickoff, which will include the Roll-In Cuban Food Truck and music by The Time Pirates. Events like bridal showers and birthday parties can also be held on site.
The winery is open Thursdays from noon until 6 p.m., Fridays and Saturdays noon until 8 p.m., and Sundays from 1-6 p.m. For more information or directions, visit oldrockquarrywinery.com.
Author: Tracy Sanders
