Nov 11, 2025
Frederick Spencer Johnson earned the Distinguished Flying Cross for sinking a Japanese destroyer on Armistice Day (November 11th) in 1944.
WESTFIELD – Johnson Estate Winery, New York’s oldest estate winery, announced today the launch of its annual Veterans Appreciation Month for November, offering military personnel special discounts and a continued commitment to charity. The program honors the winery’s founder, a decorated World War II Navy pilot, and raises funds for the EOD Warrior Foundation.
Month-Long Gratitude Program
Throughout November, Johnson Estate Winery will extend a special thanks to all veterans and active-duty military personnel visiting the historic estate:
— Complimentary Wine Tastings: All veterans and active-duty military will receive a complimentary wine tasting.
— 10% Discount: A 10% discount will be applied to all wine purchases made by veterans and military personnel.
— A Legacy of Service: From Navy Pilot to Winemaking Pioneer
The annual November tribute is a nod to the winery’s deep-rooted military history. The winery was founded by Frederick Spencer Johnson, who served as a decorated Naval Aviator during World War II.
As a torpedo bomber pilot aboard the USS Yorktown, Lt. (junior grade) Johnson earned the Distinguished Flying Cross for sinking a Japanese destroyer on Armistice Day (November 11th) in 1944. After returning home, he founded the winery in 1961, pioneering the modern wine industry in Western New York.
“My grandfather’s service is a defining part of our family story and the spirit of this winery,” said Fred Johnson, Jr., co-owner of Johnson Estate Winery. “Dedicating November to honoring our veterans, particularly around Veteran’s Day, is a tradition we hold deeply personal. It reflects our core belief in giving back to those who have served.”
Annual Donation Drives Critical Support
In addition to the in-store appreciation, the winery will continue its annual once a year donation to the EOD Warrior Foundation based on the sales of three select red wines during the month of November:
— $2 from every bottle sold of Founders’ Red, Torpedo Red, and Maréchal Foch will be donated to the EOD Warrior Foundation throughout the month of November.
— The EOD Warrior Foundation provides financial assistance, scholarships, and crucial emotional support to the Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) community and their families.
— The Torpedo Red label, in particular, was designed by the Johnson’s son–a current Naval officer–and features the insignia of the founder’s WWII Torpedo Three Squadron, making the wine a direct tribute to the family’s legacy.
Established in 1961, Johnson Estate Winery is the oldest continuously operating estate winery in New York State. Located along the shores of Lake Erie in Westfield, the winery grows 13 varieties of vinifera and French hybrid grapes on its 115 acres of vineyards, producing over 40 award-winning wines.
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