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The owners of Hopwood Cellars Winery & William Rose Distillery in Zionsville announced Thursday that they will retire this summer and close the business that has been open for nearly 13 years.
Hopwood Cellars opened in June 2012 after the winery’s founder, Ron Hopwood, began making his own wine in 1994 as a hobby and turned it into a business. The winery and distillery are at 12 E. Cedar St. in Zionsville’s historic downtown Village.
In a letter to customers, Hopwood wrote that he and his wife, Janet, have made the decision to retire and close their family business in mid-summer.
“This was not a choice we made lightly,” Hopwood wrote. “As I reflect on the years of hard work, sacrifice, and passion that have shaped this journey, I am reminded of the countless memories and friendships we have forged along the way. I am also mindful that, throughout it all, I have not had a weekend off since I was 14 years old! Despite the challenges—blood, sweat, and tears—I can honestly say it has been a journey filled with immense joy and purpose. It is one that I would not trade for anything.”
Hopwood added that Hopwood Cellars Winery & William Rose Distillery has experienced 475% sales growth and sold nearly 2 million bottles of wine, bourbon and whiskey since 2012.
He also left the door open to the possibility that his high-school-aged daughters, Sayge and Quinn, might reopen the business sometime in the future.
“After decades of seven-day workweeks and long hours, Janet and I have come to the realization that it is time to prioritize our health and spend more time together,” Hopwood wrote. “While we are closing this chapter, there is a possibility that Hopwood Cellars Winery & William Rose Distillery will return under the leadership of Sayge and Quinn somewhere in the future.”
Hopwood Cellars Winery & William Rose Distillery is open 1 p.m.-6 p.m. Tuesday-Saturday and 1 p.m.-5 p.m. on Sundays. Hopwood did not disclose an exact closing date, but said it would be “mid-summer.”
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Wishing all the best to the wonderful owners of Hopwood Cellars as they step into retirement and prepare to close their doors in Zionsville. Your passion for winemaking and the warmth you brought to the community made it a truly special place. The booze lover in me is definitely a little heartbroken, but I’m grateful for all the memories and great pours over the years. Cheers to a well-earned next chapter!