After nearly two decades of winemaking history, Parallel 44 Vineyard and Winery closed its original tasting room doors on Saturday in Kewaunee.

During the farewell celebration Saturday, visitors gathered at the winery’s original site to mark its final day, culminating in a “final vineyard toast” among the vines first planted by founders Steve Johnson and Maria Milano nearly 20 years ago.

“Today is kind of a walk down memory lane, it is hard to believe it has been 21 years,” Maria Milano said. “It is bittersweet but exciting.”  Steve Johnson looked ahead at the future.  "This next chapter will allow us to focus on broadcasting to the world what Wisconsin wine means." 

The closure follows the vintners decision to consolidate all winery operations at Door 44 Winery, which will be renamed under the Parallel 44 brand. The move is intended to streamline production and strengthen the winery’s presence in Door County, a major tourism destination.

Guests at the event reflected on the winery’s role in launching cold-climate grape growing in northeast Wisconsin. The Kewaunee County location, built on the original vineyard, has been central to that effort.

“We've reached a point now where we want to focus on expanding distribution, focus on the wine club and still be Wisconsin ground to glass," said Johnson.

At 4 p.m., the crowd gathered among the vines for a final toast, marking the end of an era with a mix of tears, hugs and an optimistic outlook toward the winery’s future in Door County. Raising a glass, Johnson offered closing remarks to those in attendance, expressing gratitude for nearly two decades of support. Rather than a goodbye, he framed the moment as a transition. “I'm so proud of what we've done. But yet so hopeful for what is to come,” Johnson toasted.  He added “From the bottom of our hearts, all the best.”

Parallel 44 has earned statewide recognition for its role in developing Wisconsin-grown wines and contributing to agritourism in both Door and Kewaunee counties.