Ken Meyer’s nephew plans Mt. Vernon grape venture

Mark Meyer, nephew of Meyer Communications owner Ken Meyer, has purchased 80 acres in Mount Vernon for an undisclosed price with plans to harvest and sell grapes under his new business venture, Meyer Farms Inc.

The land, 10559 Lawrence 2160, adjoins 80 additional acres given to him by his father, Charles, and uncle Ken Meyer.

Escrow closed on the land several weeks ago, and soil samples from the land were taken this week. Meyer said that within two months, he hopes to choose two Missouri grapes to harvest.

“Our expectations are not to have a sellable grape for five years,” he said. When that happens, Meyer said, he hopes to sell the grapes to wine producers. There are no plans yet to create a Meyer wine brand.

The Missouri climate and soil are particularly favorable for grape harvesting, Meyer said, but he chose the area mostly because of his personal connections to it. Though born in California, he moved to Springfield when he was 14 and graduated from Kickapoo High School. Both his father and uncle were born and raised in Mount Vernon.

“I’ve always wanted to keep my ties there,” Meyer said.

Ken Meyer said he wasn’t surprised when his nephew chose to start Meyer Farms because the Meyer family has dabbled in grape harvesting before.

“His dad owned a vineyard in California, and my grandfather used to grow grapes on a farm near the land that has been purchased, so it’s not exactly a bullet out of the blue,” he said.

On whether he would stay back or be involved in Mark Meyer’s latest undertaking, Ken Meyer said he would always be available for advice.

Ann Hall, former City Utilities administrator, is development administrator for Meyer Farms.