Local winery in jeopardy

Myrddin Winery, which is owned by one of my church's parishioners (and a worship associate, to boot), is having some trouble with keeping their doors open due to disputes by neighbors who do not want a "bar" in their neighborhood. The first and only time I visited this winery--after church one Sunday with some of my fellow winos--I was greeted with the rather offensive sign at the beginning of the road that read, "Winos Go Home." As I traveled down this neighborhood towards the winery, various neighbors had signs reading, "Would you want a bar in your back yard?"

Yes, I thought indignantly, I would. Especially a winery. It sure as hell would make my whole life easier. I could have my wine and stumble home without driving. Of course, I'd probably become an alcoholic... At least when I have some driving distance to a winery, I can limit my use. Sort of.

"Winos" are not a particularly loud, drunken group. I would hardly qualify a winery as a bar. I've never seen drunken fights or ludicrious posturing taking place in a winery. It's the safest place for a single gal to go without worrying about being hit on my cheesy guys with cheesy pick-up lines.

Still, I guess the neighbors have the right to complain. It sounds like the owners of Myrddin are trying to jump through a legal loophole and, by the strictest letter of the law, I suppose they don't have much of a case. It's sad because this winery is located on beautiful property next to Lake Milton and they do serve some great wine (they have a sparkling merlot that is totally great and unique--something fun for the holidays). I am wondering what is meant by "limiting" their business. I hope they're still allowed to sell, but I bet they do better money when they have traffic sitting around and drinking on the premises.