WEST GROVE, PA — Casa Carmen Farm & Winery is beginning its third harvest in West Grove after a severe spring frost significantly reduced its expected grape yield, testing the Chester County producer during a difficult 2026 growing season for Mid-Atlantic fruit growers.
The frost damaged vineyards and orchards across the region and cut Casa Carmen’s anticipated production considerably, according to the winery. The company did not provide an estimate of the volume lost or the expected size of this year’s harvest.
Conditions subsequently improved, with the winery reporting healthy fruit as harvest approached despite the earlier damage.
“As winegrowers, we know that we are in this with an unpredictable partner,” co-founder Felipe Pallares said. “The frost reminded us that sometimes planning isn’t enough: we have to submit to circumstances beyond our control, and hope for the best.”
Harvest was expected to begin in early September, with Casa Carmen’s chardonel grapes projected to be ready two to three weeks before its vidal blanc. The grapes will be used for wines from the 2026 vintage.
Brothers Enrique and Felipe Pallares founded Casa Carmen in 2017 after their Ecuadorian-American family settled in Chester County. Three generations now participate in the family-run farm, vineyard and tasting-room operation.
The West Grove property combines grape and botanical cultivation with sheep, horses and chickens. Casa Carmen said it uses sustainable farming practices and relies on natural fermentation and minimal cellar intervention in its winemaking.
“You grow something, you care for it, you wait, and eventually you have to accept what the land gives you,” Enrique Pallares said. “Our job is to pay attention and make the most of it.”
Casa Carmen also produces Spanish-inspired vermouths using its wine and botanicals. Its Tender is the Night black vermouth incorporates black walnuts grown on the farm, while The Sun Also Rises has an herbal and lemon profile.
The winery operates a tasting room at 49 Camino Way in West Grove, serving its wines and vermouths alongside seasonal tapas and small bites. More information is available at casacarmenwines.com.
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