Journey

Inspired by the legacy of Luvie Johnson Thomas, who crafted her first Elderberry Wine over a century ago, we bring you a collection of award-winning, small-batch fruit wines that celebrate her pioneering spirit. Her great-grandson, Phillip L. Thomas, learned the art of winemaking from his mentor, Joseph Kennan, and has continued to refine his craft through private and public wine tastings. Phillip’s dedication has earned Luvie Wines prestigious recognition, including 1 Bronze Medal, 3 Silver Medals, and a Double Gold Medal from the American Wine Society. From the tropical allure of Fruits of Passion to the rich notes of Elderberry Delight, our wines are a testament to a family tradition that lives on in every sip.

There are always ups and downs in life. I tend to perform well during the down. One day I decided to take a Wine making in class hosted by Joseph Keenan. He taught me how to make red wine in a classroom setting along with other students. However, I had a strong interest in making fruit wine. He shared a recipe with me. I applied the knowledge that I gained from making red wine over into making fruit wine. My batches  initially did not come out as desired. I would often call Joseph and also the assistant store manager, Shanie Mattox, for additional help. When I exhausted them,  I often reached out to Dusty Nabor, another well established Wine Maker. So yes, I had three wine mentors, Overtime my wine started to improve.

My good friend/acting colleague, Anton Clifford, always encouraged me to host Wine testings in my basement so I did. Attendees were my neighbors, friends and family. Their participation and feedback is the reason why I am where I am today. Without a doubt, my mother, father, stepfather, brothers, Sister, and cousins always provide words of encouragement and also participate in my Wine testings.

My Uncle Kenneth and Aunt Gwen suggested that I name my wine after my great grandmother Luvie Thomas since she was a fellow Wine Maker. I went with that idea.

I visited a friend in North Carolina in 2023 and on his table was a bottle of wine had won an award in a wine making competition. I was like, “Why not me? Let’s go!” So I entered five wines into the American wine society competition in 2023. All my wines placed. Elderberry-double gold, pear-silver, raspberry-silver, passion fruit-silver, and honeydew mango-bronze. When I’m not making wine I enjoy spending unlimited quality time with my beautiful children, daughter Gabriella and son Noah.