Heart of the Vine
Wine for a good cause
Kim and Andy Busch enjoy a moment at their Folded Hills winery
Written by Joan Tapper
Photography by Kylie Enholm, Cara Robbins
I tend to do everything by jumping in,” says Kim Busch, who owns Folded Hills winery, ranch, and farmstead with her husband, Andy. That was her mode when the couple decided to plant grapes on their Santa Ynez property in 2014 and when they launched their wines three years later. And it was also how she founded GRAPES FOR GLIOBLASTOMA, a 501(c)(3), in May of this year.
The label of their 2024 Roper Reserve Syrah reflects the ranch atmosphere.
The story of the nonprofit has an intimately personal impetus. In 2023 Andy was diagnosed with glioblastoma, a serious and aggressive brain cancer. As the family navigated his health journey through doctors, second opinions, and multiple treatments, they realized that others with this disease often faced financial jeopardy and other hardships. The Busches had long partnered with and donated portions of their sales to local charities. But this situation called for something else.
“Most nonprofits fund research,” Kim says, “and thank goodness for that. But we are a little more grassroots.” The organization gives financial support to families who might need a driver to get to an appointment, since those with this diagnosis cannot drive. Other grants might allow people to afford a hotel before an early exam out of town, seek a second opinion in another city, or hire a caregiver for a much-needed break. “It’s complicated to write checks to a caregiver,” Kim adds. “The learning curve is steep.”
A dedicated fundraiser may take place next spring, but for now, 10 percent of every sale of Folded Hills wine goes to the nonprofit. “It changes lives to have a little help,” Kim says. “All we can do is the smallest amount, but that’s a win.” grapesforglioblastoma.org
