In an intimate ceremony at the Fort Hill Performing Arts Center in Canandaigua, Senator Helming addressed the audience saying “across the 54th Senate District of New York State, there are amazing women doing extraordinary things for their communities, workplaces and families. Women of all ages, backgrounds and talents play an integral role in shaping the future of our communities and state, and inspiring the next generation of leaders.” This year, there were 13 nominees in the 54th district. Senator Helming went on to say “individually, their successes are unique. But collectively, they show that each of us can make a meaningful difference in the lives of others.” Senator Helming went on to recognize each nominee. Here is what she had to say about Erica.
Erica Paolicelli is partner and President/COO at Three Brothers Wineries and Estates and War Horse Brewing Company in Geneva, NY. A highly respected young professional born and raised in the Finger Lakes, Erica is regarded by her peers as a consummate learner and a hard worker who is passionate about growing the wine industry regionally and statewide, and establishing the Finger Lakes as one of the finest winemaking regions in the world. After earning a bachelor’s degree in nutrition from SUNY Oneonta, Erica returned to the Finger Lakes where she met Dave Mansfield and learned of his plans to purchase a winery and vineyards along Seneca Lake. Erica became the first employee at Three Brothers Winery when it opened in 2007. She turned what was intended to be a summer job into a successful career as partner of a popular and thriving small business. Over the last 15 years, Erica has helped grow Three Brothers to three wineries, a microbrewery, and a café, which collectively employ 150 people. The business has expanded its regional distribution to over 300 locations and continues to innovate with a wide selection of handcrafted wines, beers, hard ciders, and craft sodas. Erica and her partners, Dave and Luanne Mansfield, pride themselves on creating a unique destination with an exceptional customer experience. This has earned Three Brothers a loyal following, attracting more than 150,000 visitors annually. With Erica’s leadership, Three Brothers has been recognized as a five-time Top 100 fastest-growing, privatelyowned company in the Finger Lakes region; a 2022 Top Workplace; Business of the Year and Winery of the Year; and among the best wineries to visit in America. A resident of Geneva, with a home nearby the winery, Erica takes great pride in seeing her community flourish as well. She founded Geneva Rosé Soirée and her tireless work on this event over the last several years has raised $45,000 to support local non-profit organizations. Erica also spearheads numerous charitable events at the winery that benefit important causes throughout the region. In addition, Erica is actively involved in local boards and organizations. She is an Advisory Board member at Lyons National Bank and Finger Lakes Community College; a Board member of Geneva Community Projects; Secretary of the Seneca Lake Wine Trail Association; Chair of the New York Wine Policy Institute; a member of the Farm Credit East Marketing Council; and has been a strong voice and advocate on local beautification and economic development committees. She previously served as Chair of the Finger Lakes Wine Alliance and is the former treasurer of the Seneca County IDA. Erica and her husband, Justin Paolicelli, partner in life and business. Justin is also co-owner of Three Brothers and VP of Operations. Her nominator and business partner Luanne Mansfield said, “Three Brothers would not be the industry leader it is without Erica’s fingerprint on nearly every aspect of it. Geneva is lucky to have such a formidable advocate on their side. Erica has such a passion for the region and striving to bring out the best in her employees.
In a recent post on her personal Instagram page Erica reflected on the honor saying:
“This award is special because it acknowledges not one thing that any of the nominees or myself have done, but the accumulation of hundreds or thousands of decisions made over time about the leaders we want to show up as— at work, home, in our communities.
Through the rear view mirror, people have a very condensed vision of the timeline to success- folks lose track of the perseverance, grit, work ethic and the bravery it takes to show up day in and day out and make contributions that matter. Over time, these thousands of decisions compound and as a result, measure our collective success- I’m honored to be in the company of every nominee, their long list of contributions is inspiring.
To me, It feels like this award is acknowledging my authenticity and @mommamansandherwine nomination makes me proud.
I find that some of the most successful people I know surround themselves with others that strengthen their spirit… the support I receive from my husband, my family and my friends and colleagues that feel more like family is what makes me the lucky one. My cheering section is big y’all!
Thank you @senator_helming for bringing light to and celebrating all of these ladies, and congratulations to all of the nominees, it really is an incredible honor.
Link to the Commemorative Book on Pam Helming’s website.
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Looking for something different in your wine tasting experience? Maximize your escape from the grind with one stop. At Three Brothers we offer three unique wineries, a microbrewery and cafe all on one estate. With our expansive selection of hand-crafted wines, craft beers, hard ciders, and sodas there’s bound to be something for everyone who visits. Founded in 2006 we opened our doors to the public in September 2007. Exceptional hospitality is a top priority, and our innovative spirit keeps things fresh.
