Kalamazoo Rock Star Buys Michigan Vineyard and Winery
A Star-struck Acquisition
Renowned rock star and OneRepublic guitarist, Zach Filkins, along with his wife, Lindsay, have recently added to their list of accomplishments by purchasing the famed Karma Vista winery found nestled in the countryside beauty of Coloma, Michigan, and renamed it Filkins Vineyards.
The couple was driven to the business after visiting Southwest Michigan and rediscovering their passion for hosting wine pairing dinner parties and their long-standing dream of owning a winery, a dream which took root during their honeymoon in California.
The New Owners
“Southwest Michigan inspired us,” Filkins professed on Instagram while publicizing their new business venture. The pair recalled their visit to Karma Vista in the year 2019, which culminated in a tasteful wine sampling session. The variety of “wonderful” wines they tried reverberated with their years of experience in the restaurant industry, and the dream of owning their own winery resurfaced.
Seizing the opportunity when it presented itself, Filkins and his wife bought the business from the owners, Joe and Sue Herman.
A Grateful Takeover
“We are incredibly grateful and humbled by the opportunity to take the torch from the Hermans and are honored to own and operate the very first winery that attracted us to Southwest Michigan wine country,” they expressed upon announcing the acquisition of their new domain.
Notably, Filkins Vineyards offers breathtaking views of the bucolic Michigan countryside, adorned by a tapestry of vineyards, located just a few minutes’ drive from Kalamazoo. The new owners promise a wholesome, hospitable, casual country setting for everyone.
Moving forward
With a fresh phase for the vineyard in progress, Jason Johnson, an experienced winemaker from California’s Napa Valley, was appointed to supervise wine production. In addition, Lindsay Filkins’ sister, Melissa Feris, has joined the team as the general manager.
Since its opening, Filkins Vineyards has hosted outdoor live music and other events. However, it is yet to be confirmed if Zach Filkins will entertain the guests with his celebrated guitar skills any time soon.
A Fond Goodbye
The previous owners of Karma Vista, which was founded in 2002, announced the sale in a heartfelt message on social media platforms. Giving an Irish-style farewell, the former owners expressed gratitude towards their customers and supporters for sharing memorable years at the vineyard.
The Journey Continues
As the Hermans retreat into a well-deserved retirement, the Grammy-nominated OneRepublic group, known for chart-topping songs including, “Counting Stars,” “Too Late,” and “All the Right Moves”, haven’t retreated from their musical career. They are all set to embark on their world tour later this month.
Meanwhile, Filkins Vineyards is open to the public from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays; 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. on Fridays and Saturdays; and noon to 6 p.m. on Sundays.
