The East End community was shocked to hear about the death of Christian Wolffer this past December.  He was vacationing in Brazil when he was hit by a speed boat while swimming in the waters of the resort he was staying at during his visit.  Best known as the owner of Wolffer Vineyards in Sagaponack, this warm, friendly gentleman was not only dedicated to managing international enterprises, but also to contributing to scores of charitable organizations in our area.

Mr. Wolffer was an entrepreneur, born in Hamburg and managed a host of international enterprises.  Investment banking, real estate, venture capital and agriculture were only a small portion of his businesses.  Owning a vineyard was among his long time dreams and the success of Wolffer Vineyards showed that his dream more than came true. His first purchase in the Hamptons was in 1978, buying a 14 acre piece of land. By 1987 the Vineyard was in place near this site and now his property encompassed more than 170 acres, of which 55 acres was the Vineyard.  Horses are an important part of this business, with Wolffer Estate Stables as an equestrian center for breeding, boarding, instruction and schooling. With an 80 stall stable, their indoor riding field is the largest on the East Coast.  Wolffer Estate Vineyard & Stables was continually a sponsor of the annual Hampton Classic Horse Show in Bridgehampton.

What this reporter remembers most about Christian Wolffer was an event covered by the Montauk Sun each year.  The James Beard Foundation hosts “Chefs and Champagne” every July on the grounds of the Wolffer Vineyard.  Over twenty five tops chefs from the East End and around the country prepare food for the guests to sample at this afternoon gala.  One of the highlights of this charitable event is a presentation of the Christian Wolffer Scholarship to two students planning to study in the field of culinary arts.  Mr. Wolffer was always in attendance to personally present the award to the two high school student recipients.  During the afternoon he could be seen mingling and chatting comfortably with guests and celebrity chefs that came to participate in this outstanding event.  Mr. Wolffer will be missed by all that knew him and for his many charitable contributions that he helped on the East End and around the country.  He left behind a formidable legacy that his family is proud of and that visitors will remember each time they tour the Wolffer Estate Vineyards.