The Most Common Wine Grapes Grown in Northern Michigan

If you’ve ever sipped a glass of Michigan wine and wondered what goes into that delicious pour, you’re in for a treat. Northern Michigan is home to some truly exceptional wine grapes, thanks to our cool climate and the moderating effects of the Great Lakes. While the world’s common wine grapes include heavy hitters like Cabernet Sauvignon and Chardonnay, Michigan has its own lineup of superstar varieties that thrive in our unique terroir. Let’s take a closer look at the grapes that make Michigan wine so special.

White Wine Grapes

Riesling

Riesling is the undisputed king (or should we say queen?) of Michigan’s vineyards. This versatile grape thrives in our cool climate, producing wines that range from bone-dry to lusciously sweet. Thanks to the lake effect, Michigan Rieslings develop bright acidity and complex flavors, making them some of the best in the country.

Chardonnay

Michigan’s second most planted grape, Chardonnay, is a true chameleon. Winemakers can craft it into anything from crisp, unoaked styles to rich, buttery versions aged in oak. It’s also a key player in sparkling wine production, proving just how adaptable it can be.

Pinot Gris

Chardonnay Grapes

Also known as Pinot Grigio, this grape does exceptionally well in Michigan’s cooler temperatures. Expect crisp, refreshing wines with flavors of pear, apple, and citrus—perfect for a summer afternoon by the lake.

Gewürztraminer

Fun to say and even more fun to drink, Gewürztraminer is known for its bold aromatics. Floral and spicy, this grape produces wines with notes of lychee, rose petals, and ginger. It’s an excellent choice for pairing with spicy foods.

Sauvignon Blanc

Though not as widely planted as the others, Sauvignon Blanc is gaining traction in Michigan. It produces crisp, dry wines with bright citrus flavors and herbal undertones.

Red Wine Grapes

Pinot Noir

Pinot Noir is the leading red grape in Northern Michigan, and for good reason. It thrives in cool climates, developing elegant, nuanced flavors of red cherry, raspberry, and earthy undertones. This grape is notoriously finicky to grow, but when done right, the results are spectacular.

Cabernet Franc

This grape is a rising star in Michigan’s red wine scene. Known for its medium body, bright acidity, and herbaceous notes, Cabernet Franc is often compared to its more famous cousin, Cabernet Sauvignon—but with a unique Michigan twist.

Marquette

A hybrid grape designed to withstand cold winters, Marquette produces medium-bodied wines with aromas of cherry and berry. It’s a relatively new player in the Michigan wine world, but it’s gaining popularity fast.

Frontenac Grapes

Frontenac

Another cold-hardy grape, Frontenac delivers bold, fruit-forward wines with high acidity. It’s often used in both dry and sweet styles, giving winemakers plenty of room for creativity.

Nebbiolo & Sangiovese

While less common, these classic Italian varieties are finding a foothold in Michigan vineyards. Known for their high acidity and firm tannins, they add an exciting twist to the state’s red wine offerings.

Michigan’s Unique Wine Identity

Michigan isn’t just making wine—it’s making a name for itself in the wine world. With a history dating back to 1679 and a ranking as the 7th largest wine producer in the U.S., Michigan has solidified its place on the map. Cool climate wines are our specialty, and with over 50 different grape varieties planted across the state, there’s something for every palate.

So, the next time you raise a glass of Michigan wine, take a moment to appreciate the grapes behind the bottle. From crisp Rieslings to bold Pinot Noirs, our state’s vineyards are producing world-class wines that deserve to be celebrated. Cheers to that!