We're Glad You're Here

Though Row Bear was founded in 2020, Bailey and Simon’s journey began in 2008, when a shared passion for wine took root. Inspired by countless visits to Napa and what they fondly refer to as “training by osmosis,” they set their sights on a future in wine.

Simon Haidamous

Trained in finance, Simon built his early career in investment banking, oil and gas, and private equity before joining Aperture Cellars in late 2017. Recruited by his mentor Frank Hevrdejs and Jim Crane (owner of the Houston Astros), he combined his financial and operational expertise with his passion for wine to serve as the Chief Financial Officer.

At Aperture, Simon oversaw the construction of the winery and tasting room, as well as the acquisition and redevelopment of vineyard properties across Sonoma County. Aperture would go on to garner widespread acclaim, earning a reputation for excellence among critics and discerning consumers.

While in California, Simon formed relationships with industry leaders such as Patrice Breton of Vice Versa Wines and consulted for Copia Vineyards in Paso Robles. Though a newcomer to the field, his contributions were recognized in 2020 when the North Bay Business Journal named him a Top CFO. In 2021, Simon returned to Houston to join Genesis Park, a hybrid debt and equity firm providing capital solutions to privately held businesses.

Simon is a member of the Houston chapter of the Confrérie des Chevaliers du Tastevin, and also the co-founder of the Sons of Bacchus, a wine enthusiast group that organizes wine-centric events and trips to renowned wine regions.

Bailey Haidamous

Shortly after getting married, Bailey worked in marketing, development, and public relations at The Parish School, a school for children who have language and learning differences. There, she witnessed the profound impact of early intervention on students — a connection that, unknowingly, would come full circle in the years to follow.

Following Robert’s diagnosis on the autism spectrum and being accepted to The Parish School, Bailey returned to The Parish School to work in admissions, offering her insight and perspective to help families find the right educational fit.

Robert “Row Bear” Haidamous

Our sweet Row Bear is the inspiration behind our family wine. Diagnosed on the spectrum at an early age, we were worried about what his future might look like. Will he talk? Will he go to school? Will he make friends? 

Thanks to early intervention, Row Bear has surpassed so many of the hurdles we knew might lay before him. Robert spent 8 years at The Parish School in Houston, a school specializing in communication delays and learning differences. At Parish, Robert said his first words, learned how to read, excelled academically, and made deep meaningful friendships. 

We are beyond grateful for all the professionals that played a part in Robert’s early childhood and elementary school experience. We are proud to donate to The Parish School Tuition Assistance program to help make a Parish education accessible for all accepted students. 

Robert loves video games, reading fantasy books, and attending camp at Camp for All. 

Thomas “Brother Bear” Haidamous

Thomas is proud to be Robert’s older brother and best friend. From teaching him new vocabulary to advocating for him on the playground, Thomas has been a crucial component in Robert’s social and language development.

Thomas is quick to include Robert in all his favorite activities including time spent with his friends. Thomas has taught Robert countless board games but really enjoys playing backyard baseball and chess with him.

Thomas is a Boy Scout and hopes to earn his Eagle Scout in the future. Through Scouts, he has sought out badges like Disability Awareness so he can learn more about supporting people like Robert is our community. Thomas enjoys community service at The Parish School, from building furniture to helping with filling. Thomas is the definition of brotherly love which is why we named our second label cabernet “Brother Bear.”

A Bit of Legacy

Simon’s grandfather, Alfred Spaniel, opened Oklahoma’s first winery in 1960 — The Prague Bohemian Winery. Before serving in World War II, Alfred spent 12 years in California’s winemaking industry. His signature wine, “Midnight Holler,” was crafted from native Oklahoma possum grapes.