West Michigan Wineries

West Arm of Grand Traverse Bay from high overlook of Old Mission Peninsula in the fall.

Discover West Michigan Wineries

When one thinks of wine, the vineyards of France and Napa Valley comes to mind. But in recent years, Michigan has joined California, Oregon, and Washington as being top producers of grapes. Michigan’s cool climate region, along with sufficient water and nutrient rich soil, is the perfect recipe to grow quality grapes. From these grapes come delicious dry and semi-dry wines, sparkling wines, and dessert wines.

The major wine regions are along the Lake Michigan shoreline, from New Buffalo in the southwest, up through Saugatuck and into the Leelanau and Old Mission Peninsula in the north.

Here in central western Michigan, we have many vineyards and wineries that are producing top quality wines.

Traverse City and Old Mission Peninsula

Traverse City is known as the “Cherry Capital of the World” and many of the wines produced here use this fruit flavor. White wines, such as Rieslings and Chardonnays first made their mark here, but now Traverse City wineries have branched out into making light reds like Merlot and Pinot Grigio. There are roughly a dozen wineries in Traverse City and Old Mission Peninsula. Visit the Old Mission Peninsula Wine Trail for more information.

Leelanau Peninsula

The unique climate and steep slopes of the Leelanau Peninsula are the perfect combination for producing some of the country’s best wines. Within the towns of Leland, Northport, Suttons Bay and Glen Arbor you can visit close to 20 wineries. The architecture varies as much as the wineries themselves–you’ll find everything from old farmhouses to modern buildings to stately mansions. For more information, visit the Leelanau Peninsula Wine Trail.

Douglas Valley Organic Vineyard

Set upon land that was formerly a railroad station stop, Douglas Valley is an organic agricultural community on rolling hills that overlook Lake Michigan just outside Manistee. Their vision is to transform this 640-acre fruit farm into a new development that is environmentally friendly. They feature award-winning hard ciders and wines, and are open Monday-Saturday 11am-6pm and Sunday Noon-5pm. Take M-22 north two miles from the Little River Casino Resort in Manistee, turn right on Schoedel Rd and go 1.5 miles.

Jomagrha Vineyards and Winery

Pentwater is the location of this small winery, just one mile from Lake Michigan. They supplement their French hybrid plantings with harvests from the Leelanau Peninsula and other local vineyards. During the winter, their tasting room is open Friday, Saturday, and Sunday from noon-5pm. They are located 11 miles south of Ludington, just off US-31.

Krolczyk Cellars

This fast-growing winery in Freesoil has seen production grow from 500 bottles to 5,000, featuring many varieties, including Riesling, Chardonnay and Cabernet. This husband-wife team bring a spirit of fun, passion, and love of winemaking to their work. Their tasting room is open by appointment November-April. They are located between Ludington and Manistee, just 1.5 miles off US-31 and Freesoil Road.

Tartan Hill Winery

Located in New Era, this winery has been in operation for 24 years, and they’re known for producing wines that are made from a blend of different vintages. They are a relatively small operation and sell only at their winery and a few area stores. Tartan Hill Winery is open seven days a week from noon-5pm, and is located 30 miles south of Ludington. Take the New Era exit and travel 1.5 miles west on New Era/Stony Lake Road to 52nd Avenue.

Wine Tastings, Festivals, and More

Throughout the year, many wineries offer special events, such as Wine & Art Festivals, Annual Vineyard Run & Walk, Holiday Wine & Food Celebration and Spring Sip & Savor. Vintners from Northern Michigan wineries invite you to wine tastings…call for times. Or grab a group of friends and let someone else do the driving! Wine Tasting Tours are available to shuttle you in comfort and style, while you enjoy the beautiful countryside that surrounds area vineyards.

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