Tony Debevc (1916-2010) and Rose Petrovic (1921-2017) were inducted for their enduring spirit, success, and commitment to the Ohio grape and wine industry. In early 1970s Tony, with the help of Rose and his son Anthony (Tony) Debevc and the recommendation of Dr. Garth Cahoon and others, transformed their small Concord grape production into a small A-frame winery with 35 seats. The winery emerged as a local labrusca producer but grew to become one of the largest in Ohio.

Running the business was a family affair. Tony managed the vineyards and Rose managed the books. Anthony, Jr. and his wife Beth pursued a dynamic business plan based on growth and quality fruit and fine wines. In 1995, the family was the first establishment to be named by Vineyard & Winery Management magazine as “Wine Family of the Year”.

Source: Ohio Wine Producers Association Hall of Fame website