Nestled along the sparkling shores of Lake Michigan, Traverse City is a gem of Northern Michigan. The area is known for its breathtaking landscapes, gourmet dining, and vibrant culture. While it proudly holds the title of “Cherry Capital of the World,” its rolling hills and fertile soil have also made it one of the most exciting wine regions in the country. The Grand Traverse Region’s vineyards have flourished over the past few decades, producing world-class wines that rival those of Europe and California. But how did this picturesque corner of Michigan become a wine lover’s paradise? Let’s uncork the story of this premier wine destination.
The Birth of the Traverse Wine Coast
The Leelanau and Old Mission peninsulas, stretching into the waters of Grand Traverse Bay, are home to stunning vineyards that benefit from the area’s unique microclimate. These peninsulas, separated by the bay, create a breathtaking wine trail known as the Traverse Wine Coast. While smaller than Napa or Sonoma, this wine region offers a distinctive selection of wines that impress even the most discerning palates.
Why Here? The Magic of the 45th Parallel
Traverse City’s wine success isn’t just luck—it’s geography. The region sits along the 45th Parallel, the same latitude as renowned wine-growing regions like Bordeaux and Piedmont. The bay and Lake Michigan act as natural insulators, moderating extreme temperature. The area’s fertile soil and long summer days provide the perfect conditions for growing wine grapes.
From Cherries to Chardonnay: A Grape Experiment Pays Off
While fruit farming thrived in Northern Michigan, wine grapes weren’t part of the equation—until Edward O’Keefe, Jr. had a vision. In the early 1970s, despite skepticism, he planted Chardonnay and Riesling vines on Old Mission Peninsula, convinced they would thrive. In 1974, he founded Chateau Grand Traverse, the region’s first commercial winery. His gamble paid off, proving that Northern Michigan could produce high-quality wine, and in 1987, Old Mission Peninsula received its first American Viticultural Area (AVA) designation.
The Growth of a Wine Empire
With O’Keefe’s success, more wineries followed. Peninsula Cellars, located on a century-old farm, opened in 1994. Chateau Chantal, a winery and bed-and-breakfast estate, welcomed guests in 1993. Bowers Harbor Vineyards, originally a horse farm, planted its first vines in the 1990s and transformed a stable into a cozy tasting room.
Next door in Leelanau Peninsula
Meanwhile, the Leelanau Peninsula experienced its own wine boom, becoming Michigan’s second AVA in 1982 with just four wineries. Among the pioneers was Bernie Rink, founder of Boskydel Vineyard (now closed), who shared Edward O’Keefe Jr.’s vision that wine grapes could thrive in Northern Michigan. In 1964, Rink planted a one-acre test plot of hybrid grape varieties. Encouraged by their success, he expanded to 15 acres, establishing the region’s first commercial vineyard in 1970. By 1976, he had opened Boskydel Vineyard’s tasting room, marking a milestone in the growth of Leelanau’s wine industry.
Today, the Leelanau Peninsula boasts over 26 wineries, offering everything from crisp whites to bold reds, all with stunning lakeside views. Must-visit spots include Amoritas Vineyards, Chateau Fontaine, and Good Harbor Vineyards.
A Destination for Wine Lovers
With more than 40 wineries, the Grand Traverse Wine Coast has become a must-visit destination for wine enthusiasts. Whether you’re sipping a glass of Riesling on a vineyard terrace, exploring charming tasting rooms, or pairing local wines with farm-to-table cuisine, Northern Michigan’s wine scene offers an unforgettable experience.
What started as an experimental vineyard on Old Mission Peninsula has grown into one of the country’s most exciting wine regions. The Grand Traverse area, with its perfect climate, rich history, and dedicated winemakers, continues to elevate Michigan’s wine reputation. So next time you visit, raise a glass to the visionaries who turned this cherry capital into a wine lover’s dream. Cheers!
Marisa Fancy along with her husband and four children dreamt of moving “Up North”. They had vacationed for years in northern Michigan and in 1995 they finally made the move.