Guide to Michigan Wineries

 

With more than 200 wineries throughout the state of Michigan, you’re sure to find at least a few to visit no matter what region you’re in. Fortunately, the state’s wine trail system makes it easy to get a taste of a variety of different wines—and see the unique and beautiful landscape of each area. Grab a map on the Michigan Wines website, and get ready to start sipping.

 

Up at the tip-top of the state, this trail covers the towns of Charlevoix, Harbor Springs, Petoskey, and Indian River, and is often less crowded than other areas due to its location. This trail is also home to a number of newer wineries, but don’t worry…most of the wines are well-aged.

 

Foodies will love this trail, which not only features 25 wineries, but excellent dining as well: popular places include Martha’s Leelanau Table, The Riverside Inn, and Bella Fortuna North. There’s a pretty wide variety of wines to be found, including Pinot Grigio, Pinot Noir, Riesling, Chardonnay, and Cabernet Franc. Due to its size, this trail has three mini-trails, the Northern Loop, the Sleeping Bear Loop, and the Grand Traverse Bay Loop.

 

Called the “Napa Valley of the Midwest,” the Lake Michigan Shore Wine Trail is home to 20 wineries and tasting rooms, including Fenn Valley, Karma Vista, Lawton Ridge, and Lemon Creek. The scenery is as wonderful as the wine, as several of the locations are in beachfront towns.

 

In terms of grape-growing climates, Old Mission Peninsula is ideal for white wine varietals, as it sits in what’s called the “45th parallel.” The most popular types created here are Pinot Noir, Riesling, Chardonnay, Pinot Grigio, and Merlot, but you’ll also find the famous Michigan ice wine.

 

With its charming secondhand stores, bed and breakfasts, and peaceful gardens and lakes, this trail is ideal for a weekend wine getaway. Burgdorf’s, Cherry Creek Cellars, Chateau Aeronautique, and Pentamere are among the seven wineries you’ll discover here.