Geneva man plans winery, microbrewery

STARKEY—A 23 acre plot of land on Route 14 along with buildings (including the former Cluster Pines) has been sold.
David Bunnell, of Bunnell Associates in Geneva, made the purchase. Bunnell has a number of plans for the property, with the remodeling of the store happening first.
He explained he wants to open it in the spring, possibly with a new name. His other plans for the remaining property are a bit more ambitious. Bunnell said he wants to build a microbrewery and a small farm winery on Route 14.
While he has the land now, the microbrewery and winery are on hold for the moment. Bunnell said, “everybody is concerned about the economy and where things are headed.” He added he wants to see how the economy fares and the election plays out.
Bunnell said he liked the location of the Route 14 property, and knew it was on the market for some time. He said after looking at what the area offered, he wanted to develop a microbrewery and winery. While the two will be separate facilities, due to the licenses required, it would be one destination.
This is not Bunnell’s first foray into development. He said he has acquired four buildings in Geneva. While he has renovated two properties, Bunnell said he is again waiting on the economy to do anything else with the others.
Bunnell is also on the board of directors for the Finger Lakes Regional Arts Council and Finger Lakes Health.