There’s something undeniably magical about a winery that feels like home — and that’s exactly what Grinder’s Switch Winery has been since its humble beginnings. Nestled in the woods of Centerville, Tennessee, this local gem isn’t just about good wine — it’s about family, hard work, and chasing a dream.

After all, Joey didn’t build the winery alone — his wife, Gail, was by his side since day one, supporting him and playing a vital role in the day-to-day operations that kept the winery thriving. This dynamic husband-and-wife team ran Grinder’s Switch Winery on their own from the beginning, but what started as a small family venture quickly blossomed into a full-time labor of love. By 2009, the little winery had grown so much that Gail and Joey closed the hardware business they had run for years to devote themselves entirely to the winery.

As the winery grew, so did the need for helping hands. That’s when their children, Mick and Jodie, stepped up to join the family business.

By 2012, the winery had grown so much that Gail and Joey moved out of the charming log cabin, which is still home to the original tasting room — a warm, welcoming space that continues to greet visitors with the same charm and character it always has.

The Chessor family’s story is in every bottle. And whether you’ve been visiting for years or you’re just discovering the winery, you’re part of that story now, too.

So next time you’re enjoying a glass of Grinder’s Switch Winery wine, raise it to Gail, Joey, Mick, and Jodie — the family who turned a dream into a legacy.

 

The Chessor Family
Gail and Joey Chessor, founders of Grinder's Switch Winery