Sacramento, CA…Senator Tom Berryhill (R-Twain Harte) honors Deaver Vineyards, of Plymouth, CA, as the 2015 Small Business of the Year. The California Small Business Association today also recognized Ken Deaver, the winery owner, at its annual Small Business luncheon in Sacramento. Deaver Vineyards was selected by Senator Berryhill for its longstanding support of the community, steadfast commitment to customer service, and high level of business ethics. Ken is deeply respected throughout the community for his service as an Amador County Supervisor as well as for hosting the annual Rotary Easter Egg Hunt at Deaver Vineyards. The Deaver family has grown grapes in Amador County since 1854…

“Deaver Vineyards has a great California small business story. It started out as a small family operation about the time gold was discovered and now makes some of the best wines in the country,” said Berryhill. “Ken’s deep roots in the area, his enthusiasm, and participation in the region’s wine community are unparalleled.”

Ken Deaver’s great-grandfather John James “J.J.” Davis, planted his first crop of mission grapevines in 1854 and then zinfandel grapes in 1870. Old Vine Zins, made from these ancient vines, are some of the nation’s most acclaimed zinfandels. Deaver Vineyards is recognized around the world for its exceptional Zinfandel, Sangiovese, Barbera, and Port varieties.

“Amador County makes some fabulous wines and Deaver Vineyards is one of many reasons the county’s wine is so popular among the world’s wine enthusiasts. Despite this popularity and growth, Ken and his family have maintained a steadfast commitment to the community. It is an honor to recognize Deaver Vineyards as the 8th Senate District’s 2015 Small Business of the Year,” said Berryhill.