Samuel Zenas Ammen joined Kappa Alpha in 1866 as a serious, disciplined young man, a veteran, and a Master Mason well versed in the power of ceremony and tradition. He found the fraternity's original ritual somewhat lacking, later recalling it had "nothing to touch the imagination of initiates nor stir their fancy." Rather than walk away, Ammen threw himself into reshaping it: meeting late into the night with fellow brothers, gathering ideas from chapter discussions and essays, and weaving in the inspiration of ancient chivalric orders. Piece by piece, he built a ritual, constitution, and set of symbols that transformed a small student society into what has been an enduring Order. These efforts earned him the title of Practical Founder of Kappa Alpha Order.
This elegant 2022 red wine opens with enticing aromas of ripe plum, black fig, and roasted chestnut, accented by subtle herbal notes and warm baking spice. The palate is rich and expressive, revealing layers of blackberry and dark cherry, supported by refined tannins and balanced acidity. Full-bodied yet beautifully composed, it finishes long and smooth, with lingering notes of spice and dark fruit—a wine inspired by the strength, passion, and determination of Alpha Phi’s own Louise Viola Shepard Hancock.
