Chuck Corliss, a long-time Lutsen visitor and homeowner, and his wife, Kim, an avid North Shore fan, are the founders of North Shore Winery and the Sawtooth Mountain Cider House. Both have long term interests in wine, vineyards and wine making. But decades of experience tasting wine, beer, and cider gives them that "real-world research experience" to make some really yummy adult beverages for you to enjoy.
The idea to build a winery took off when discussing retirement plans and what to do when finished with our “day” jobs. The couple definitely wanted to live in Lutsen so they could ski, mountain bike, sail, and golf full time. Combined with lifelong "research work," they thought a winery would be a fun new attraction in Lutsen!
Jeremy and Mary Hanson, longtime homeowners in Lutsen and big fans of Cook County joined the Corliss' in 2017. The winery grew substantially since its grand opening in 2016 and the Hanson family helped in the winery since the beginning. With the addition of Jeremy and Mary as partners, the Winery gained additional leadership engaged in the day-to-day operations of the business so it would continue to provide great customer service and good times its customers have come to enjoy.
Jeremy and Mary have been spending significant time on the North Shore since the 1970s, first on the Gunflint Trail and since 2004 in Lutsen. Mary and Jeremy enjoy Northern Minnesota, starting with BWCA canoe trips in the 70s and family vacations along the North Shore and the Gunflint Trail. High school sweethearts (Minneapolis Central!), they have been married for 29 years and have three grown children: Graham, Ana and Maddy. They enjoy being outdoors – in the woods or on the lake; mountain biking, skiing, fishing, hiking, boating, spending time with friends and family….and yes, drinking wine out on the deck!
Photo caption: Jeremy, Mary, Kim and Chuck receiving the Northern Wilds 2017 Award for Best Wine!