Portwine of Maine: The Story in a Nutshell
Everyone living in Northern Maine has a hobby. I've always found immense passion and joy in cooking. The delicious aroma of food wafting through the kitchen, the fun of friends gathered around the table, and the thrill of the final presentation have all been great loves in my life. To me, combining savory dishes and good company creates many of life's most enduring moments.

In the spring of 2004, I decided to turn my passion into my life's work, and started PORTWINE of MAINE. What makes this company so different are friends who shared in my enthusiasm. In the beginning, seven of my friends got together weekly to share ideas. I went around the room and asked each person what position they would like to work in the business. I knew if everyone was happy we could create flavorful foods as well as an excellent working environment. The women who volunteer for me are so talented, and have all had such diverse life experiences. We are now in our fifties, and our goal is to work together creating delicious treats, while expressing our strength and joy in a healthy and fun environment. Our last name, Portwine, was too unusual to not use it in the company name. And so, Portwine of Maine was born.

Lemons to Lemonade: The Beginning
In Millinocket, Maine, On December 27, 2002, 1100 families lost their jobs with Great Northern Paper Company. Most of these families had worked for the company their entire lives, and my husband was one of them. The devastation left an aftermath of grief to several small stricken communities. I knew immediately that when the going gets tough, the tough get going, and I had to do something to supplement our income and create jobs in the process.

Then came several more serious bumps in the road. Late in the fall of 2004 my husband, Peter, age 55, became seriously ill, and underwent two open-heart surgeries within six weeks. It was and still is the most difficult part of our journey. At the end of November, our eldest son, Brandon, gave his managers notice that he would be moving home to help care for his father and work with us in our new endeavor. Once Brandon came home the business began to blossom. My son Bryant, who also works in food service, has been an immeasurable help, as well.

To Life!
Despite several obstacles, creating Portwine of Maine has been my greatest challenge and my greatest triumph. The reason our company stands apart from the others is due to the unending support of my wonderful friends and caring community. So many people have helped this company get off the ground, and I am especially thankful to all of our co-workers who give 110% and keep smiling. To my customers: Thank you for joining me at our table. I am so grateful you have come. May your days be filled with the joy of good food and the laughter of good friends, as have mine.