Tobacco Fields to Grape Arbors: The Story of Hyman Vineyards

“It’s the lives you touch every day. We love people and talking to them.

In Florence, South Carolina, there lies a hidden gem known as Hyman Vineyards. Rhonda Hyman, co-owner of Hyman Vineyards shared her story, offering insights into the evolution of her and her husband Greg Hyman’s journey. It is a journey that began 15 years ago when they pivoted from growing tobacco to nurturing grapevines.

The vineyard’s inception began with a desire for change. After witnessing the decline of tobacco farming, Greg Hyman sought new opportunities for their land. With the encouragement of a close friend who had a passion for viticulture, the Hymans began the journey into winemaking. “We were good friends with Robert D.B.,” she reminisced. “He suggested we start the vineyard, and here we are.”

Their transition from tobacco to grapes was steeped and marked by a learning curve. However, the Hymans, specifically Greg, “always had a fascination with innovation.” The couple embraced the idea of natural farming, moving away from chemicals, and focusing on practices beneficial for both the grapes and environment. 

Rhonda described how word-of-mouth advertising has been the backbone of their business. “If I’m good to my customers, they come back,” she shared, noting that many patrons return each year – sometimes from out of state – to visit the vineyard and the Hymans at the Pee Dee Farmer’s Market. This genuine commitment to quality and maintaining happy customers has fostered a spirit of their community to feel welcomed and valued.

However, recent challenges – particularly staffing shortages – have forced the couple to step back from hosting weddings and tastings. “We don’t have the manpower,” she shared, highlighting a struggle that many small business owners face today. 

Despite the challenges, the Hymans remain optimistic. Greg has visions of expanding their operations to include educational classes on beekeeping and horticulture, driven by their shared passion for health and natural living. “Our goal has always been health,” she stated. “Muscadine grapes are incredibly beneficial; they’re loaded with resveratrol, good for the heart and circulatory system.”

The Hymans have also recognized the value of sharing knowledge and experiences with others. They aspire to educate their community about the health benefits of natural ingredients, hoping to inspire future generations of entrepreneurs in the agriculture space. “Just love what you're doing, and everything will come. Don’t go in it for the money,” she advised aspiring agricultural entrepreneurs, reflecting on their journey.

While their story started in agriculture, it transcends beyond crops; it's about relationships. The Hymans' joy lies not in profits but in the people they meet. “It’s the lives you touch every day. We love people and talking to them.”

The couple’s contrasting personalities also play a significant role in their dynamic. While Greg embraces change and experimentation, Rhonda finds comfort in the routines and joys of life. Their partnership symbolizes the essence of entrepreneurship with a splash of hard work, passion and emotional fulfillment. 

As they navigate the challenges of today’s agricultural landscape, one thing remains: their commitment to health, nature, and the love for viticulture will inspire others to share in their journey.

To connect with Hyman Vineyards, he best way is to stop by the Pee Dee Farmers Market or visit their Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/HymanVineyardsFlorence.