Marife Manito, the visionary behind Donfin Wine & Fruit Preserves, is guided by a profound desire to extend a helping hand to others while enhancing the well-being of the community. With a deep commitment to uniting people with the bounties of nature and connecting them to the divine, Donfin Wines has emerged as a beacon of health and community engagement in Marinduque.

The genesis of Donfin Wines can be traced back to a pivotal moment in 2016, when Sr. Alma Mangao and Sr. Marivic Destacamento, RSMS, fervently devoted themselves to aiding the mothers of Marinduque by delving into the realms of herbal tea-making and fermentation. This endeavor sparked a resurgence of a fond memory for Manito resonating with the time when she had crafted her first ever wine – a delightful pineapple variant – nestled amidst the scenic vistas of Tagaytay back in the year 2000. Fueling their inspiration further was a significant encounter with the late Mr. Abad Rioflorido, whose gratitude for a bottle of fermented pomelo, borne out of a generous exchange with Manito, unveiled the profound impact of their creations. Despite not being a medicine, Rioflorido found solace in its consumption, claiming respite from his arthritic woes and a newfound ease in breathing.

Embracing the authenticity of creations, Donfin Wine and Fruit Preserves, exemplifies a holistic approach, to well- being, balancing the art of winemaking with a resolute dedication to serving the community and its people. Manito’s unwavering pursuit of health, inclusivity, and communion with nature through Donfin Wine resonates as testament to her unwavering vision and commitment, elevating the essence of Marinduque’s agricultural landscape to resplendent new heights.

Casting ripples of admiration and curiosity, Donfin Wines made its resounding debut in December 2017, intriguing guests at a batch reunion as they marveled at the revelation that locally crafted wines had taken root in Marinduquc. The aftermath of this revelatory gathering saw an outpouring of orders and inquiries, galvanizing Manito to transform her passion into a full-fledged enterprise. The pivotal decision to transition into a business materialized in August 2018, following consultations with the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) and the subsequent registration of Donfin Wines, including product labelling, nutritional value testing and product analysis for its alcohol content.

Every bottle of Donfin Wine represents a tapestry of natural fruits, herbs, and the dedicated essence of the Marinduque community. It seamlessly integrates into various occasions, serving as a cherished companion to caterers for weddings and birthday parties, esteemed patrons with discerning tastes in table wines, and individuals aged 35 and above seeking an affordable yet sophisticated indulgence. The allure of Donfin Wines transcends conventional concoctions, guaranteeing a smooth and luxurious tasting experience that mirrors the craftsmanship and commitment embedded within each bottle. ♦

Date of release: 02 August