Adam Fizyta
Second Generation Owner/Vigneron
Adam is an avid outdoorsman who found his calling back to the farm at the start of the 2023 vintage. In an effort to expand the vineyard from 3 to 10 acres, Adam consulted with highly regarded viticulturists in the US and Bordeaux to assist with plant material and site selection. During a period of exploration, Adam went on to complete the “Terroir and Vineyard Management” program led by renowned Professor Kees van Leeuwen in Bordeaux. This was followed by back to back internships with Jim Law and Joshua Grainer at Linden Vineyards and Lost Mountain Vineyards (RdV) respectfully. Adam’s aim is to unlock the potential of this shale hillside, and to ensure the vitality of the vineyard for the next generation. The new chapter of Catoctin Breeze has begun.
Catoctin Breeze is the fruition of our family’s journey. The same adventurous spirit that led us to a new life in a new land goes into producing wines that make us exceedingly proud.
Andy Warhol once said, “The idea is not to live forever, but to create something that will.” When we look at the vineyard and winery we built from scratch, we have a feeling that we have accomplished just that. It's been a source of joy, satisfaction and enormous pride. Knowing that Adam is so passionate about making great wine and running this vineyard for future generations of Fizytas makes our dream come true.
Wojciech Leon Fizyta
Founder
Our Mark
The Catoctin Breeze mark incorporates a feather in motion, an abstract depiction of migration and flight which alludes to the journey of vineyard founders Wojciech and Alicja Fizyta from Poland to their new home in America nearly 40 years ago. The feathers are drawn from the Polish white-tailed eagle and US bald eagle, iconic symbols from each respective homeland that convey courage and strength in the face of adversity. The two feathers in the final brand mark personify two generations of the Fizyta family working side by side, as well as the idea of present and future.
The Winery
Our winery, completed in 2017, was designed to blend in with the bucolic and rustic landscape of Frederick County, Maryland. The cellar where we raise our wines is built into the hill, and always kept at or below 55°F thanks to the thermal insulation of the earth the surrounds it. Our Cuverie is equipped with concrete tanks imported from Burgundy, made from gravel and sand, where they are used primarily for fermentation, but also for élevage. All of the power we need to operate the winery is generated by the sun.
“Our intention is to grow wines that are both elegant and ethereal, harnessed by the singular spirit of Catoctin.”
— Adam Fizyta, Owner/Vigneron