Neal’s Story: Growing Up in the Nursery & Shaping the Future

Neal Amberg has been part of the vineyard since childhood. As Nursery Manager and Mechanic, he plays a key role in keeping operations running smoothly, from maintaining equipment to managing nursery planting. He’s also a volunteer firefighter, balancing farm life with service to the community. We sat down with Neal to hear more about his journey, lessons learned, and the tools he can’t live without.

Earliest Memory of Working with Your Dad?

I spent more time in the nursery than the vineyard since that work was still going when I got off the school bus. One of my earliest memories is during digging season behind the Keyes house—driving our old Ford tractor (barely reaching the pedals) while my dad loaded vines into boxes. It was also the first time I got a tractor stuck in the mud. My grandfather had to pull me out with the John Deere dozer!

How Has Your Education in Viticulture Helped?

Studying at Finger Lakes Community College helped me understand vineyard practices and canopy management. Since we focus on budwood production, it also taught me better shoot positioning to maximize yield.

What’s the Most Exciting Advancement in Vineyard Machinery?

New tractors are always exciting, but what really stands out is GPS technology. Precision tech has taken vineyard operations to another level, allowing us to maximize efficiency and accuracy.

A Challenge You Faced in the Nursery & How You Solved It?

Before we built our “Wanderer” planting machines, planting was all done by hand—six to eight people bending over for hours. Now, with two guys planting full-time and the rest prepping vines, we’re way more efficient. The key to success? The right equipment and teamwork.

Advice for Someone Starting in Vineyard Management?

Take it slow and ask questions—there’s no such thing as a dumb one.

How Do You Balance Vineyard Work & Firefighting?

It’s all about priorities—harvest comes first, but if I can respond to a call, I do. My wife also has the final say when I’m home. After work, when my family is asleep, I respond to as many calls as I can.

Favorite Way to Unwind?

Spending time with my son. And after he’s asleep, my dog takes over cuddle duty.

If You Could Have Dinner with Any Historical Figure, Who Would It Be?

Dr. Neil deGrasse Tyson. I’ve always been fascinated by the unknown, and one dinner wouldn’t be enough to soak in all his knowledge.

One Tool or Piece of Equipment You Can’t Live Without?

Tool: My toolbox—I’d waste too much time hunting down tools otherwise. Equipment: Our Challenger MT755E. It’s a powerhouse. It’s gotten us through wet digging seasons and made drainage tile installation way more efficient.

Favorite Local Spot in the Finger Lakes?

Still exploring, but my wife and I love taking our son and dog to Seneca Lake State Park to unwind.

Thank You, Neal!

Neal’s dedication to both the vineyard and the firehouse doesn’t go unnoticed. His passion and hard work keep everything moving, from tractors to nursery operations to answering the call at the fire station.

For nursery-related inquiries, Neal can be reached at neal@amberggrapevines.com