We’re looking forward to introducing you to Christian Slupe. Check out our conversation below.
Hi Christian, thank you for taking the time to reflect back on your journey with us. I think our readers are in for a real treat. There is so much we can all learn from each other and so thank you again for opening up with us. Let’s get into it: What do you think is misunderstood about your business?
I think the one thing that is misunderstood about the Wine Business, is that you have to be sophisticated to know and enjoy wines. I believe this is something that is getting better as generations shift, but can still be found. Wine among any other adult beverage should be understood and enjoyed by all. We are extremely proud of expressing this to our customers and assisting in furthering their knowledge on not only the wines we produce, but the winemaking process in general.
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
Greetings! My name is Christian Slupe, I am the Chief Operating Officer of Lakeridge Winery and Vineyards located in Clermont, FL. Lakeridge Winery is a 3rd generation family owned winery, opening its doors in 1989. For multiple generations we have held pride in producing a wide variety of different wines in a laid back, unique atmosphere. Lakeridge Winery is located atop a hill on a stunning 127 acres in Lake County, FL. We offer daily tours and tastings where visitors can learn more about the company and family history. My grandfather, Gary Cox was the original founder and is now Chairman of the Board, my Uncle, Charles Cox, is the President of the company and primarily runs our sister winery San Sebastian in St. Augustine, FL. I have been with the company for roughly three and a half years, overseeing the operations at Lakeridge Winery, and spend a good amount of my time involved with the ongoing Vineyard Operations as well.
Appreciate your sharing that. Let’s talk about your life, growing up and some of topics and learnings around that. Who taught you the most about work?
My Grandfather, Gary Cox and the founder of the Winery has taught me the most about work, specifically here at the Winery. He took many risks in building and creating successful wineries in a State that was not known for the production of wine, or wineries in general. From starting a test vineyard in his backyard, he has grown our two wineries to the two largest in the State. There have been many tests and challenges that have had to be overcome throughout the years. Creating products and experiences for our customers has been engrained in everyone that has been involved with our company. From the first day I started here at Lakeridge Winery it has been instilled in me, that there will be challenges and mistakes made along the way, but the only way to learn and improve on these is to navigate and ultimately overcome them.
What did suffering teach you that success never could?
Failure and making mistakes may temporarily lead to suffering. But, these mistakes are the absolute best ways to learn and to make sure they do not repeat themselves. Picking yourself up and coming back from suffering is one of the most powerful learning experiences we have for ourselves, our daily lives, and in business.
So a lot of these questions go deep, but if you are open to it, we’ve got a few more questions that we’d love to get your take on. Is the public version of you the real you?
Now? Yes, absolutely. However this is not an easy transition to make. Being in the industry I am in, I am very front facing representing our products and brand in all scenarios. Being who I truly am is extremely important for me personally as I back the products we produce and the generations behind them.
Thank you so much for all of your openness so far. Maybe we can close with a future oriented question. Are you doing what you were born to do—or what you were told to do?
I truly believe that I am doing what I was born to do, specifically career facing. Having an opportunity to run the largest Winery in the State of Florida and being the 3rd generation behind it is such a moving thing to do. Every day I take this passion in and outside of work, being grateful to have given this opportunity I always strive to give my 110%. There are not many 3rd generation ran businesses left, and I feel this is what was ultimately intended of me.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://Lakeridgewinery.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lakeridgewinery/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/LakeridgeWines
- Yelp: https://www.yelp.com/biz/lakeridge-winery-and-vineyards-clermont
Image Credits
Tom Ledford
