Welcome to ‘Travel Talks’, where the world’s foremost explorers, hospitality experts, and wanderlust aficionados share their stories, tips, and insider perspectives, guiding you through the destinations they know best. Did you miss our last one with Marcel Thoma, General Manager of Mandarin Oriental New York?

This week we’re speaking with Elbridge “Brig” Leland, the owner and vintner of Marble Ridge Winery, the North Shore’s boutique winery destination, located in North Andover, Massachusetts. Brig is a lifelong entrepreneur and in 2020 returned to his families 1680s era dairy farm and has been working to convert it to a world-class winery ever since.

What do you love most about Marble Ridge Winery?

The North Shore, specifically North Andover, is a place my family has called home dating back the 1680s. It’s where I grew up and where I now produce world class wines at Marble Ridge Winery. Very often businesses in a community reflect that community. North Andover inspires me to offer only the highest quality products and services because the people of this region will not accept less. I love it here because it’s my home and I get to interact with so many great people every day.

What is a hidden gem at the winery?

The entire property is considered a hidden gem. Visitors often comment that they were unaware we existed and discovered us through a Google search or heard of us by word of mouth. Sometimes it’s as simple as driving by the Winery on tasting days and seeing our sign. Despite our measured approach to marketing and advertising, people find us, fall in love, tell their friends and keep coming back.

Another of our hidden gems are three boutique guest homes on property. Our lovingly restored artist’s studio, one bedroom bungalow and 3 bedroom ice house are cozy chic accommodations, perfect for short term stays in a historic and  picturesque setting.

What is your favorite restaurant nearby?

LaFina in Andover!

What is your favorite thing to do there in the peak season?

There is something about the immersive wine tasting experience at Marble Ridge Winery with guests that always surprises me. Tasting and blending and evaluating wines at their various stages of development means they are participating in the art and science of winemaking. It demystifies the process for some and deepens the wine knowledge base for others. As a vintner, this exclusive event gives me invaluable insight into my wines and an intimate experience with wine lovers at all levels of expertise.

What is your favorite thing to do there in the off season?

Although there is not a true off season at Marble Ridge Winery, when there is more time to focus on improving the guest experience from the wines, to the guest houses, to the event spaces, I’m committed to providing world-class experiences on all levels. We are constantly upgrading, renovating and evaluating our service and offerings and that will never change or have a season.

Anything new and exciting happening at Marble Ridge?

Our 1850 Barn Venue is our largest private group space located in our historic 1850 barn across from our beautiful 200+ grape vineyard. This 42′ by 25′ space has been recently renovated and is designed for hosting groups of 20-60 people making it ideal for adult birthday parties, bridal and baby showers, office socials, corporate outings, and more!

From the beginning, I’ve envisioned this property as a place to bring people together. Yes, the wine is an attractive draw but, this property will have other community based facilities like a farm store, co-working space, a podcast studio and community agricultural programs.