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Honoring a 115- Year-Old Farm Legacy While Ushering in a New Era

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The Capital Region’s oldest family-owned apple farm begins its next chapter, blending tradition, community, and innovation.

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A new era is blossoming at your favorite apple orchard as ownership officially transitions to Neviana Zhgaba and Ardian Llomi, agricultural entrepreneurs and owners of the award-winning Aquila’s Nest Vineyards in Connecticut. The orchard will reopen in Spring 2026 with refreshed experiences, special events, and the timeless traditions that have made this destination so special.

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This chapter builds on the extraordinary work of Scott Seeberger and his family, whose years of care made the orchard one of the most treasured farms in the Albany area. Scott will remain as General Manager—ensuring continuity, honoring tradition, and moving forward as both a trusted leader and family friend to Neviana and Ardian.

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The new owners also plan to revive the Goold family’s legacy by planting a new vineyard and crafting wines on site—expanding on the winemaking heritage of Brookview Station Winery, founded by the Goold family.

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In 2016 Neviana and Ardian purchased a bare 41 acre farm in Newtown, CT with no grapes or infrastructure and, within only a few short years, transformed it into one of Connecticut’s top tourist destinations—recognized nationally for its agritourism, cultural programming, and sustainable practices. Their proven ability to respect history while building something extraordinary positions them uniquely to steward this orchard into its next era.

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“At Aquila’s Nest Vineyards, we were honored to receive national recognition—from being named Best Vineyard in Connecticut to earning the National Small Producer Winery of the Year, and being selected by the U.S. Chamber of Commerce as one of America’s Top 70 Small Businesses. Those awards remind us what passion, hard work, and community support can achieve—and we’re eager to bring that same spirit here,” said Neviana Zhgaba.

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With Scott’s leadership, and just as they preserved the Staudinger family’s 200-year farm heritage in Newtown, Neviana and Ardian are committed to carrying forward the 115-year legacy of the Capital Region’s oldest family-owned apple farm, transforming it into a vibrant orchard, cidery, and vineyard featuring music, arts, and crafts events.

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“I’m deeply grateful for the years my family has spent stewarding this farm and for the wonderful community that has grown around it. Looking ahead, I’m excited to build on that foundation together, starting not only a strong partnership but also a lasting friendship,” said Scott Seeberger.

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“We’re truly excited to reimagine the orchard and create a beautiful place where everyone feels welcome to gather, celebrate, and return to again and again,” added Ardian Llomi.

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Anticipated for Spring 2026, our reopening will bring guests the opportunity to experience:

• Family-friendly farm activities and live music weekends

• Local artisan markets and craft events

• Private event spaces for gatherings and celebrations

• Crisp, refreshing. hard or non-alcoholic cider

• New vineyard plantings for future house-made wines

• A refreshed cidery building and reimagined farm store

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Together, Scott, Neviana, and Ardian will preserve the orchard’s heritage while bringing fresh energy, new experiences, and a renewed sense of community spirit.

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Stay connected by following us on Facebook and Instagram, and subscribing on our website for updates on the reopening, event announcements, and behind-the-scenes previews.