Romantic Danube River Cruise, July 26 - August 2, 2027, with Russell and Sue Hearn of Suhru & Lieb Vineyards

Suhru & Lieb Vineyards
Russell Hearn – Winemaker

For more than three decades, Russell Hearn has been a driving force in shaping the New York wine industry. His wines have earned widespread critical acclaim and the respect of peers across the region, with his innovative approach leaving an indelible mark on leading wineries including Pellegrini Vineyards, Lieb Cellars, and Suhru Wines.

Born in Australia, Russell was introduced to the world of wine early through his mother’s work in the industry. He began his winemaking career in Western Australia before expanding his expertise internationally, gaining invaluable experience in New Zealand, France, and multiple wine regions across the United States.

In 2000, Russell founded Premium Wine Group, the first custom crush facility on the East Coast. This groundbreaking venture reshaped the Long Island wine landscape, providing a launchpad for countless new wineries and tasting rooms.

In 2008, Russell and his wife Susan launched Suhru Wines, a boutique label that steadily grew over the following decade. Building on that success, in 2024 the Hearns—together with their daughter Shelby, son-in-law Brad, and friends-turned-business partners John and Renee Fondacaro—purchased what was formerly Lieb Cellars, where Russell had been winemaker since the early 1990s. The family reopened the property as Suhru & Lieb Vineyards, now home to 54 acres of certified sustainable vineyards. Today, Russell continues to innovate while remaining deeply committed to sustainable farming, quality-driven winemaking, and mentoring the next wave of vintners.

You’re invited! Join us aboard AmaVerde, a grand European river ship. On board we will share with you our prized wines during two special tasting events and a paired dinner. The wines of Suhru & Lieb Vineyards will be contrasted with the wines of Germany, the Czech Republic, Austria’s Wachau Valley and Hungary.

This is a special river cruise down the Blue Danube, from Vilshofen Bavaria to Budapest Hungary, with all meals, sites and “must do” tours and activities included. There’s also a special 3-night pre-cruise tour of delightful Prague, capital of the Czech Republic, a beautiful city never destroyed during WWII and 4-night post-cruise tour of Hungary.

Join Us!
Russell & Sue Hearn
Owners & Winemakers