A Legacy in Finger Lakes Farming: Meet Vineyard Manager Jim Bond IV
2023 marks Jim Bond’s 17th harvest season in the Finger Lakes. His journey in the world of winemaking began in the wine cellar of Hazlitt Vineyards in 2005. Bond then decided that he needed to know how to grow the grapes that were being made into wine–and then he was hooked. Jim's connection to the land feeds his passion for viticulture–a connection that started long before his vineyard career.
A Family Affair
Jim's roots are firmly planted in the heart of Finger Lakes wine country. He comes from a long line of local fruit farmers in Hector, New York, where he now lives with his family today–right next door to the previous generation.
Bond and his wife live in a historic 1860 home, which feels somewhat symbolic for Bond’s habits. When he isn’t carefully tending to the vineyards, he’s carefully maintaining the longstanding home.
And to deepen their roots in wine country just a little more, his wife happens to be the assistant winemaker at Damiani Wine Cellars.
Many Lives Lived
Before his 17-season journey of Finger Lakes viticulture, Bond worked as a professional sailor, sailing along the east coast and the Gulf of Mexico. He then spent some time in Alaska before making his way back home. These experiences undoubtedly contribute to his tenacity and resourcefulness in the wine industry. If you get the opportunity to enjoy a glass of wine with Jim, we’re sure he has some great stories to share.
The Future at Knapp
In Bond’s words, Knapp is striving for world-class wines. When asked about what drives him at Knapp, Bond says we are “stewards of our land, and we really owe it to do our best.” Coming from generations of farming, Bond has an unmatched respect for the land we use that proves invaluable in vineyard management.
He credits this season’s success to the crew’s hard work, humbly stating that he’s “backstage” in the process.
And his favorite wine? While his palette can be all over the place, his favorite is a sparkling champagne. And it’s a good thing he’s patient, as winemaker Vanessa Hoffman just began the first fermentation for a méthode champenoise that will be ready in about 5 years.
“We’re stewards of our land, and we really owe it to do our best.”
We’re incredibly grateful to have Jim’s talents, perspective, and knowledge here at Knapp Winery. More than a steward of the vines; he's a custodian of both tradition and innovation. He truly believes in our community and his dedication and expertise will help shape the remarkable wines produced in this picturesque corner of the world.
Be sure to stop and say hello if you see him. If he isn't talking about his amazing family, he’s probably talking someone’s ear off about sailing or fishing.
