2026 -- H 7711

========

LC005051

========

     STATE OF RHODE ISLAND

IN GENERAL ASSEMBLY

JANUARY SESSION, A.D. 2026

____________

H O U S E   R E S O L U T I O N

CONGRATULATING THE DIAMOND HILL VINEYARDS ON THE OCCASION OF THEIR

50TH ANNIVERSARY

     Introduced By: Representatives Marszalkowski, Ackerman, Voas, Shekarchi,
Blazejewski, Chippendale, McEntee, Kennedy, Edwards, and Bennett

     Date Introduced: February 11, 2026

     Referred To: House read and passed

     WHEREAS, In the late 60s, after being stationed in France in the Air Force, Peter and

Claire Berntson returned to the Town of Cumberland and bought 34 acres of land on Diamond

Hill Road to follow their heart and try their hand at farming and winemaking; and

     WHEREAS, Diamond Hill Vineyards is now a second-generation, family-run vineyard

and winery still owned by the Berntson family. Officially founded in 1976, with the first grape

plantings, this year marks the anniversary of five decades of farming, family history, and

winemaking; and

     WHEREAS, Encompassing over 30 acres of scenic vineyards, beautiful gardens and

unspoiled woodlands in the Town of Cumberland, Diamond Hill Vineyards began producing

Pinot Noir, and now produces Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, Sauvignon Blanc, as well as

small-batch grape and fruit wines including various blends from New England fruits such as

apples, cranberries, peaches and blueberries; and

     WHEREAS, Diamond Hill Vineyards offers a beautiful day touring the winery,

delightful wine and cheese tastings, a stop at its lovely little gift shop, a tasting room set in the

charming vineyard house, or just a relaxing afternoon unwinding with a glass of wine simply

enjoying the beautiful grounds outside on the lawn, or under the large covered porch in the

summer time, or cozy next to the fireplace on those cold winter days; and

     WHEREAS, What began as a dream fifty years ago, is now a successful, sprawling

vineyard that hosts guests year-round, distributes wine to local liquor stores, and is a must stop

for families and friends to gather, and for out-of-towners to visit; now, therefore be it

     RESOLVED, That this House of Representatives of the State of Rhode Island hereby

congratulates the Berntson Family on the occasion of their 50th Anniversary of the founding of

Diamond Hills Vineyard and, moreover, wishes for its continued success; and be it further

     RESOLVED, That the Secretary of State be and hereby is authorized and directed to

transmit duly certified copy of this resolution to Peter and Claire Berntson and Family.

========

LC005051

========

LC005051 - Page 2 of 2