Dr. Thomas Quilter (1921-2006) and Mary Quilter (1921-2010) were inducted for their years of pioneering in the Ohio wine industry. In 1972, the couple began growing a wide variety of wine and table grapes as an experiment and hobby on a grain farm thirty-three miles north of Columbus. They learned that certain grape varieties such as Seyval, Marechal Foch, Concord, and Niagara are, in general, more winter hardy and therefore more suitable for the region. A hobby turned into a business when, in 1984, Shamrock become a bonded winery.

Tom and Mary Quilter emphasized the pairing of French-American hybrids with traditional foods of the area. Tom served six years on the Ohio Wine Producers Association Board of Directors and represented the wine industry in many agricultural meetings. Mary's dedication to the winery and vineyard made it possible for Tom to serve the wine industry.

Source: Ohio Wine Producers Association Hall of Fame website.