At Firehouse Wine Cellars, our crew is passionate about providing an unforgettable experience by serving the finest Black Hills wines in a relaxing, casual setting. Meet our winery staff who work behind the scenes to bring you the best wine and experience possible.
“I grew up a gypsy wandering the western U.S. I started college as a would-be lawyer, ended up almost a chemist and now, I make the wine. I started with Firehouse Wine Cellars running the lab for all the wine tests. After working in the lab and cellar for three years under Rich Tanguay, our off-site consulting winemaker and the then-head winemaker at Heller Estate, I knew this was what I wanted to do. I knew I wanted to make wine! I consulted with him, and he concurred that I was ready to take over all on-site activities in 2016. Thanks to Rich, some friends, and a wonderful program at Washington State University I became head winemaker in 2018.”
Deborah is a lifelong South Dakota resident with over 40 years of management experience. She has received certifications as a corporate mentor and trainer in coaching, team development, and performance management. In addition to caring for her own honey label with over 70 hives, she enjoys coffee, wine, music concerts, food with friends and family (including her husband of 42 years), and everything outdoors.
Laura grew up in Rapid City and is a graduate of Central High School and Black Hills State University. While a full-time student attending classes in Spearfish, Laura was also raising her young daughter Samantha and working part-time as a server and bartender at the Firehouse Brewing Company in Rapid City.
Laura has held many positions during her 30-year span at the Firehouse, including both bar & restaurant manager, retail, marketing, FOH manager, administrative assistant, and is currently enjoying her new position as the Firehouse Wine Club manager.
After decades in hte local food and beverage business, Laura says the service industry is about making people happy. She loves beer and wine for the craft and variety. Some of her personal Firehouse favorites are the Saisons, Browns, Cabernets, Blends, and a nicely chilled Sauvignon Blanc in the summertime.
When she’s not serving up local favorite fare, she likes spending time with family, watching her grandkids dance & play soccer, and going to the park with her dog Casey. Laura’s family has grown up at the Firehouse right alongside her, and while it has provided an income over the years, she says the Firehouse has also provided her with many coworkers, customers, and longtime friends who have become like family.
