From Golf Greens to Volcano Vines: Jonathan Walters Builds a Lake County Legacy

Texas-born Jonathan Walters brings hands-on grit, restaurant roots and a passion for real wine from real people to the volcanic slopes of Brassfield Estate Winery.

Jonathan Walters at Brassfield Estate Winery.

Jonathan Walters was always going to grow things for a career.

But, he was sure early morning hours would be spent on a golf course. A pair of mud splattered boots, sweeping the dew, mowing the greens, cutting hole locations and making sure the bunkers were draining after a storm.

That was when the Texas A&M grad, who once thought his career would be in turf management, found his calling. He’d still wear dirty boots and wake up early. Instead of a golf course though, he found a side hustle that eventually lead him to the vineyard.

Because he was around wine when he waited tables, its allure dug a spot deep into his soul. Neither job has the glamour seen on the big screen. Turn on the Masters in April and Augusta National is a natural canvas covered in green grass and blooming flowers. It charms loopers and patrons alike as the nation emerges from a winter hibernation. Somewhere there’s a grounds crew with the palms of their hands stained by that majestic green grass.

Whereas wine has a celebratory nature, it’s shared with friends, loved ones and family. It’s waxed about poetically by critics and has plenty of showstopping turns in film and television.