Portsmouth-based Vintner's Cellar Winery, a "make your own wine" business, was recently honored by the International Franchise Association with the prestigious Franchisee of the Year award. Owners Gail and Mike Locke traveled to Washington D.C. to be presented with their award.
Vintner's, which is also celebrating its third anniversary, has expanded from its first location at Gallagher's Place in Portsmouth to six locations throughout northern New England.
"I was just so ecstatic when I heard the news," Gail Locke, owner and president of Vintner's, said. "It is wonderful to hear that the success of this company is being recognized nationally."
The owners say they were pleasantly surprised by the news that they were being rewarded for their outstanding performance by enhancing and promoting the growth of franchises nationally. The business has partnership locations in Wilmington, Massachusetts; Portland, Maine;, and Concord, Bedford and North Conway, New Hampshire.
The International Franchise Association is the world's oldest and largest organization representing franchising, and the group boasts more than 1,300 franchise systems and 10,000 franchisees.
Vintner's offers individuals and private parties the opportunity to taste and experience making a batch of wine. For more info, call Gail or Mike Locke at 603-431-2058 or visit at www.vintnerscellar.com.