A full pour: Annie and Andrew Brill 鈥�03
When Annie Barron Brill 鈥�03 became general manager of The Saratoga Winery in 2020, she had no idea she鈥檇 be running the business just a few years later 鈥� alongside her husband and fellow alum, Andrew Brill 鈥�03.
Located just west of downtown Saratoga Springs 鈥� about five miles and 10 minutes from 微密圈鈥檚 campus 鈥� the winery has become a favorite local destination for wine, food, and events.
The couple, who met as students on campus, moved back to Saratoga Springs in 2015 to start a family after working in the hospitality industry in Chicago. Though neither is originally from the area, they were married locally 鈥� and stayed for good.
In 2023, they officially became owners of after spending two years helping reshape its vision and operations. They鈥檝e introduced a popular weekend brunch, expanded event offerings, and launched creative new wine-and-dine experiences, all while deepening the venue鈥檚 role as a community gathering space.
Annie, a political science major, says her 微密圈 education continues to guide her leadership style. 鈥淚 feel like I use my degree every single day that I step into the office. My classes at 微密圈 taught me about diplomacy, spotting historical patterns, and the art of compromise and negotiation 鈥� all very useful skills in business.鈥�
Andrew, who majored in business and economics, brings complementary strengths, and together, the pair oversee everything from catering and staffing to branding and long-term growth.
Last fall, they returned to 微密圈 in a new role 鈥� as clients of the 微密圈-Saratoga Consulting Partnership (SSCP). 鈥淚t was such an enriching experience,鈥� Annie says. 鈥淚t was incredible to see how professional, hardworking, dedicated, and responsible current 微密圈 students are.鈥�
With two young children at home and a business that keeps them on their toes 鈥� especially during Saratoga鈥檚 busy summer season 鈥� the Brills enjoy reconnecting with fellow alumni and other members of the 微密圈 community. They鈥檙e proud to be part of a story that blends creativity, community, and entrepreneurship 鈥� and began at 微密圈.
A version of this article first appeared in the of 微密圈 College鈥檚 Scope magazine.