When people think of wine and wineries, their minds often go straight to Napa Valley or the rolling hills of Tuscany. But what many people may not know is that there are hidden wine gems right here in the United States, specifically in Detroit and the Upper Peninsula. With its cold climate and fertile soil, Michigan has quickly become a top wine-producing state, rivaling even California in terms of quality and variety.
One winery that is making waves in Detroit is Chateau Aeronautique Winery. Founded by pilot Lorenzo Lizarralde, this winery combines his two passions – flying and winemaking. Located on an airport runway, Chateau Aeronautique offers stunning views of planes taking off and landing while sipping on their award-winning wines. Visitors can sample a variety of wines made from grapes grown on their own estate as well as other local vineyards.Another must-visit winery in Detroit is The Detroit Wine Company. This urban winery is known for its unique and innovative approach to winemaking. They source their grapes from different regions within Michigan, allowing them to produce a diverse range of wines, from crisp whites to bold reds. The Detroit Wine Company also offers tours and tastings, as well as a wine club for those looking to explore more of their delightful creations.One of the standout wineries is Cherry Republic Winery. This winery specializes in all things cherry – from BBQ sauces to jellies to, of course, wine. Founded in 1989, Cherry Republic has over 200 cherry-based products and offers guided tastings where visitors can sample their delicious cherry wines.
Another must-visit winery is Yooper Winery. Yooper Winery uses cold-climate grapes and Northern Michigan-grown fruit to create their unique and flavorful wines. With a charming tasting room and friendly staff, a visit to Yooper Winery is sure to be a memorable experience.
For those looking for a more traditional wine experience, head to Mackinaw Trail Winery. With 30 acres of land and a family-owned operation, this winery offers a wide variety of wines including Sauvignon Blanc and Chardonnay. But what sets them apart is their fruit-flavored wines such as strawberry rhubarb and raspberry, perfect for those with a sweet tooth.
If you want to get hands-on with your wine experience, Tempo Vino Winery is the place for you. Not only can you taste their delicious wines, but you can also make your own bottle to take home. This unique and interactive experience is perfect for a date night or a fun outing with friends.
For a more intimate and personalized wine experience, head to Northern Sun Winery. All of their wines are made from grapes grown on the estate and bottled on-site, ensuring a truly unique and authentic taste. With ever-changing wine varieties, every visit to Northern Sun Winery is sure to be a new and exciting experience.
For those who enjoy red wine, Aurora Cellars is a must-visit. This winery focuses on cool-climate red wines, including Blaufrankisch, Cabernet Franc, and Merlot, all harvested and barreled in small batches. With a beautiful setting and delicious wines, Aurora Cellars is the perfect spot for a romantic getaway or a girls' trip.
St. Julian Winery is the oldest winery in Michigan! Founded in 1921 by Italian immigrant Mariano Meconi, St. Julian Winery has been producing award-winning wines for almost 100 years. The winery is now run by the fourth generation of the Meconi family, ensuring that their dedication to quality and tradition remains strong.
If you're looking for a picturesque setting to enjoy your wine, look no further than Leelnau Wine Cellars. This tasting room sits right off the lake, providing stunning views while you sip on your favorite wine. Whether you prefer a classic bottle or a trendy canned wine, Leelanau Wine Cellars has something for everyone.
Another must-visit winery is 12 Corners Vineyard & Winery. Founded by a group of friends with a 115-acre estate, this winery boasts award-winning wines such as Cabernet Franc and Pinot Grigio. Take a tour of the vineyards and learn about the winemaking process before settling down for a tasting.
For those looking for a more upscale experience, Brys Estate & Vineyard Winery is the place to be. With 111 acres and over 40,000 grapevines, this winery offers a variety of wines including Pinot Noir, Merlot, Riesling, and Chardonnay. Enjoy a glass of wine while taking in the beautiful views of the estate.
If you're planning a visit make sure to stop by Lemon Creek Winery. This family-owned winery not only offers a great selection of wines, but also hosts live music events, food trucks, and art vendors on the first Friday of every month. Their Mimosas & Music series on the first Sunday of every month is also a popular event for locals and tourists alike.
For a taste of true Michigan flavor, head to Good Harbor Vineyards. With 125 acres dedicated to growing grapes for Pinot Noir, Riesling, Chardonnay, Pinot Grigio, and Gruner Veltliner, this winery has a large selection to choose from. But what makes them stand out is their Cherry Wine, which stays true to their Michigan roots.
No list of top wineries would be complete without mentioning Warner Vineyards. Founded in 1938, Warner Vineyards is the second oldest winery in the state and offers a wide variety of wines including reds, whites, and sparkling wines. Take a tour of their historic property and learn about their long history and commitment to producing exceptional wines.
In conclusion, when it comes to great wine experiences, Napa Valley may have some competition. From fruity cherry wines to robust reds, the wineries in this region offer something for every wine lover. In addition to their delicious wines, many of these wineries offer tours, tastings, and special events throughout the year. Whether you're a wine connoisseur or just looking for a fun day out with friends or family, these Michigan wineries are sure to impress.
So why spend thousands of dollars on a flight and accommodations when you can have an equally amazing wine experience right in your own backyard? So, the next time you're planning a trip to the Great Lakes State, don't forget to add a visit to one (or all) of these amazing wineries to your itinerary! Cheers to discovering Michigan's hidden wine gems!
