Woman Runs Buffalo Winery All On Her Own
BUFFALO, Minn. (WCCO) -- Minnesota is home to dozens of wineries but one in Buffalo may stand out from the rest.
It's a one-woman winery owned and operated by a mother who decided to take a risk and truly have it all.
"Hot Mama, Blonde Bomber." The names are on the labels are for the wine, but they may also describe the woman behind the operation.
Nicole Dietman has a passion for vino. She said it came ever since she found out she was allergic to beer. In 2010, she decided to squeeze more out of her hobby and opened Buffalo Rock Winery.
"I wanted to do something where I could be home with my kids and still contribute and be a full-time mom," Dietman said.
The location couldn't be more ideal. All the production, bottling and labeling is done feet from her back door step.
Forget the family vegetable garden. Nicole instead has a vineyard where she grows her own grapes.
The University of Minnesota graduate was working full-time for the City of Roseville while managing the winery. But two years ago she was able to quit her day job and focus full-time on the wine.
She does have two little helpers, which can either make the job a lot of fun or a little stressful.
"It's a balancing act," she said. "Sometimes it's hard to get work done when I have a 5 and 6-year-old."
Another challenge is when the weather doesn't cooperate. The harsh reality is that last winter's bitter cold did some damage to the vines at the winery. But setbacks are part of owning any business, and right now business at Buffalo Rock Winery is good.
Nicole offers a tasting counter where everyone is welcome to belly up to the bar.
But for Nicole it's not a job at all. She made her dream come true right in her own backyard.
"I love the ability to be home with my kids. I love making wine that people enjoy," she said.
