We Know Our Sources: Linehan’s Grape Cluster
In 1975, John and Rita Linehan purchased a vineyard along the picturesque Grand River in Harpersfield Township with dreams of family and farming. Their vision grew into Linehan’s Grape Cluster, a multi-generational family business producing delicious seedless grapes for almost 50 years.
The partnership between Heinen’s and Linehan’s Grape Cluster was natural and seamless when it began in 2010. Both companies share a rich heritage as family-owned businesses, each spanning an impressive four generations. These shared family values have laid the foundation for a relationship that continues to thrive today.
From Vine to Table: Linehan’s Grape Cluster
Linehan Grape Cluster’s success story is rooted in family ties and a dedication to their craft. After only ten years of living at the vineyard, the Linehan family had grown to include four children: Molly, Patrick, Devin, and Christina. As years passed and his children grew, John experimented with various methods of raising and marketing table grapes. What started as a hobby gradually became a passion for the next generation.
“John never shied away from trying something new,” Patrick recalls. “At one point, he had no less than a dozen seedless varieties from around the world growing in his vineyard!”
During this period of experimentation, Mars grapes emerged as an exceptional table grape. This delicious seedless variety has a sweet and juicy profile, reminiscent of a concord grape but with its own unique charm.
Mars grapes became Linehan Grape Cluster’s claim to fame, with their mouthwatering, candy-like sweetness winning over all who tried them. Whether enjoyed fresh off the vine, baked into pies, or churned into creamy ice cream, Mars grapes never fail to delight.
Generations of Expertise
In 2022, John and Rita retired from grape-growing, passing the torch to their son Patrick and his wife Lisa. What began fifty years ago as two newlyweds’ dream has evolved into a deeply rooted tradition for the Linehan family.
With almost half a century of experience, the Linehan’s have mastered the art of growing only the sweetest Mars grapes. Their collective knowledge passed down through the years ensures that every grape meets the high standards set by John and Rita all those years ago.
“They are grown on a wire trellis and require year-round manual care,” Lisa explains. “This includes pruning in winter, securing to the wire trellis in spring, ensuring optimal sunshine exposure in summer, and harvesting by hand in fall.”
While these grapes are as challenging to cultivate as they are delicious, for the three generations of Linehan’s currently working in the vineyard, this labor of love comes as second nature.
A Fruitful Partnership: Linehan’s Grape Cluster and Heinen’s
Patrick and Lisa were just starting a family of their own when they began working with Heinen’s in 2010. Just as their family has grown over time, so has their relationship with Heinen’s. What began as a small project has blossomed into a well-established partnership, built on mutual respect and shared values.
“The team at Heinen’s is professional and sincere,” Patrick shares. “As a small family business, we feel valued, respected, and heard.”
The partnership between Linehan’s Grape Cluster and Heinen’s is a relationship that continues to bear fruit, bringing the delicious taste of Mars grapes to Heinen’s customers year after year.
