Denise Clappier, Business Manager, Web, Event Recipes and Food Prep
Denise moved to the Finger Lakes region from Dutchess County, NY in 1996 with her husband, son and daughter to build a log home on their property outside of Watkins Glen. Having 18 years prior experience with bookkeeping, taxes and office functions, she focused on meeting people in the winery business that might appreciate her skills and enthusiasm for the region. She found that place with Atwater Vineyards and started in April of 2001.
Handling the daily office and accounting tasks can get quite monotonous, but working in a winery environment offers many varied opportunities. Shipping compliance, licensing,
event coordination keep her busy but with Stacy at her side, taking on most of the accounting tasks, she can free her creative energies and apply them to Atwater's branding image. Working with designers on Atwater's labels, print ads, brochures, personalized wine label orders and website rounds out her responsibilities.
During Seneca Lake Wine Trail events you will find Denise in the kitchen where she finds great pleasure putting her best efforts into every recipe. It's not easy cooking for hundreds of people but Atwater's food and wine pairings leave a lasting impression. Pride in what Atwater does and how it is presented to the public is important to her.
For Denise, it is wonderful to have a touch of spring fever, leave the computer and go outdoors to plant in one of Atwater's flower gardens. When the vineyards are in their glory in the fall, she might be involved with hand harvesting of grapes. The aroma is heavenly in the vineyards during harvest! Denise truly loves the diversity this business can offer.