About Us

Our History:

Bagley's Poplar Ridge Vineyards was born after our late owner Dave Bagley decided to stop making wine for others and start his own business. Dave had worked for many of the still active wineries here in the Finger Lakes for a few years before deciding it was time to do it for himself. In 1977, he bought a beautiful chunk of land right here in Valois and got to work planting 20 acres of vineyards and making future plans. By 1980 he had built himself a winery and very shortly after, a reputation. It didn't take long for every stranger who walked through the door to leave as a friend. Dave spent 28 years creating his dream of a winery including filling it with delicious wines, outgoing employees, chocolate lab puppies, and classic rock and roll. He could always be found sitting on the corner stool or outside in a rocking chair, surrounded by big chocolate labs, while drinking champagne and making friends with every customer. When Dave abruptly passed in 2008, his daughter Brittany stepped up and took over the business. She has since worked hard to keep Dave's spirit alive in both the wine and the good times that are had on any day of the week here at Bagley's Poplar Ridge Vineyards.

Meet the Team

Brittany Bagley

Owner

With Dave's abrupt passing when Brittany was just 19 years old, she took on the family business. Forced to grow up at a young age, she has fully embraced her father's motto "Wine Without Bull" and took off running with it. She has managed to keep the relaxed and fun atmosphere here, while creating quite the legacy of her own, including many new wine releases and a brand new addition on the building. She truly is our fearless leader and keeps her workers motivated and happy everyday. Brittany and husband Kenny welcomed a baby boy in September 2019.

Molly Collins

Winemaker, Tasting Room and General Operations

Molly joined the Bagley's team in 2014. After working in the tasting room and as head giftshop purchaser at Hazlitt's for 4 years, she was ready for a change of pace. With a degree in digital media from Alfred State, she is a very skilled and a talented artist. Her artistic side has transformed into true passion for winemaking and dedication needed to excel in such a physically demanding field. Molly resides in Hector with her two rescue dogs.

Kenny Burchell

Vineyard Manager

With over 16 years in the grape growing business, Kenny has a true passion for viticulture. He has many years experience working for large growers such as Sawmill Creek Vineyards and Chateau Lafayette Reneau. Kenny joined the Bagley's team in 2009 and has since turned the vineyards around with his attention to detail and perseverance. He has found his home here at Bagley's Poplar Ridge and has literally become part of the family, marrying Brittany in the summer of 2017. They reside in Hector with Kenny's son, their new baby, and labrador Willie Nelson.

Patrick Wilson

Vineyard Associate

A native of Alaska, Patrick moved to Seneca Lake in 2013. After being in the Army, he has chosen a more relaxed career in the vineyards. He shows true dedication and perseverance through adverse weather. Patrick resides in Hector.

Aaron Thurston

Winemaker, Vineyards and Tasting Room

Aaron came to us from Hazlitt Vineyards. His knowledge of the wine industry and great sense of humor make him a perfect fit here at Bagley's. Aaron does it all whether it's pouring tastings, assisting with wine making, working in the vineyards, and even pouring at outside events. We cherish his positive, go-getter attitude that he carries thru in everything he does and we look forward to working beside him for years to come. Aaron lives in Reading Center with his girlfriend Claire, dog Maggie, and cat Peabody. He enjoys hunting and golfing.

Drew Kessler

Tasting Room Associate

Drew is one of the newest members of our team, and we are happy he joined us! You will usually find Drew behind the tasting bar, but more recently he has started to help out with winemaking and in the vineyards. He is very excited to learn more about the behind the scenes of winery operations and we are excited to give him the opportunity to learn new skills. Drew grew up in Utah and California, but has family ties to Seneca Lake. He lives with his girlfriend Sam here in Hector.

Our Labels

Our bottles are all screen printed with unique artwork. The wildlife artwork was drawn by local artist Norman Wells. The bottles featuring beautiful women, are all drawn by Rose Messina from Orchard Park, NY.