Dr. Bob and Brenda Young and Bending Branch Winery received an award for Outstanding Business at the 2022 Comfort Chamber of Commerce banquet held on March 31st at Riven Rock Ranch. Dr. Bob did not know that he was receiving this honor, but his team knew in advance. He thought he was attending the banquet with his daughter, Allison, and General Manager Jennifer McInnis Fadel, but several other staff members just happened to show up. It was a complete surprise to him.
This award was given in recognition of countless contributions and support for the local community. Dr. Bob served, including as Chair, for several years on the Comfort Area Foundation to help improve the lives of Comfort residents. Dr. Bob and Brenda give back via events and wines that have a charitable component. Examples include the annual Derby Extravaganza that benefits a local charity (the 2022 recipient will be the Boys & Girls Club of Comfort), and Brenda’s Cuvée wine that raises awareness and funds for Team Fox. The wine has helped raise more than $30,000 for Parkinson’s Research.
Dr. Bob’s unique résumé in medicine, public health, and winemaking positions him and Bending Branch as industry examples in the battle to control COVID-19. His leadership and expertise in public health helped navigate the Bending Branch team of 30+ employees, as well as the Comfort community, during the pandemic. He is proud that the Bending Branch team remained intact during unpredictable times, and it continues to grow.