Article is sponsored by Fenn Valley Vineyards in Fennville
Ask any local wine aficionado, and every one will have their own favorite “fun fact” about Michigan wine: how the “lake effect” creates an ideal growing temperature, how we sit at the same latitude as some of Europe’s most renowned wine-growing regions, or that Michigan is one of the few locations able to make true ice wine.
The truth is, there’s a limitless amount of things to love about the wine found in West Michigan! Explore some of our insider info below, and use your favorites to plan your next wine tour through the area!
South West Michigan Wineries
With four wineries that call the Saugatuck/Douglas/Fennville area home, you can make an entire day of sampling different red, white, sparkling, and fruit wines unique to the region. The wineries include Michigan Wine Co., Crane’s Winery, Fenn Valley Vineyards and Winery, and Modales Wines. Featuring small-batch expertise and artistry, their wineries produce award-winning wines from estate-grown and locally harvested grapes that flourish in the Southwest Michigan climate. Many of the wineries offer tours, events, and tastings, providing the ultimate wine experience.
On June 22nd, you won’t want to miss the exciting celebration of local wine at the Fenn Valley Vineyards Wine Festival, which takes place on their stunning, picturesque 240-acre property. This event will feature tastings in the vineyards, tantalizing local food, wine demonstrations, and live music.
Looking for a unique way to savor wine while soaking in the stunning views of Lake Michigan and the Saugatuck Harbor? Don't miss the Wine on the Water theme cruises aboard the Star of Saugatuck paddlewheel boat. Embark on this delightful experience, with more dates available through October. Sit back, relax, and let their expert guide lead you through a memorable tasting experience.
Started by a husband and wife team, Vineyard 2121 provides a welcoming environment that makes relaxation a breeze. Making it the perfect place to meet up with friends and talk the night away as well as an ideal place for a romantic night out.
The soils of Van Buren County are a rich and fertile tapestry, and stitching that tapestry together are many fabulous vineyards. Discover a summer lineup of concerts that'll rock your socks at Warner Vineyards in Paw Paw. Enjoy intimate summer concerts on the patio at Cogdal Vineyards, or explore South Haven's three tasting rooms.
Kalamazoo might be known for beer, but they haven't forgotten about all you winos out there. Discover your new favorite local hang out or create your own wine tour from the list below.
St. Julian Winery has become a pillar in the West Michigan winery scene. Being one of the longest operated wineries in the state, St. Julian has the opportunity to craft award winning wines and fine tune their practices. Operated by the same family for generations, the commitment this winery has to West Michigan wine is nearly unmatched.
Started by a small group of friends, 12 Corners Vineyards is known for handmade products and warm hospitality. Matching the perfect wine for each and every guests that visits the tasting room.
Central West Michigan Wineries
Sample some local flavors on a short wine tour while you’re visiting Ludington. Grab a seat on the patio and enjoy snacks and wine by the glass at Fox Barn & Winery, just south of Ludington in Shelby. Step inside the large antique barn for a unique wine gift or local food products. The winery is a gorgeous setting where you can enjoy an afternoon of tasting. New to the Ludington area: Pere Marquette Winery specializes in high-quality, distinctive wines produced in small quantities. Enjoy wine tasting in the stables at the elegant Huggard Estate near the beautiful Buttersville Peninsula.
Visit RedWater for an unforgettable experience at one of their Wine School events at Lake Bluff Grille, Cork Wine & Grille, Reds at Thousand Oaks, or RedRock Grille. Never been to a Wine School? Each month they choose a different theme and bring in a wine specialist to host the event. Guests enjoy wine pours paired with small plate courses and a fun class about the selection.
Did you know Holland has a hometown vineyard? Tanglewood Winery is a mere scenic bike ride from both downtown and the beach. Their rustic tasting room brims with rich fruit, dessert, and port wines, and there’s often fun extras like a food truck, live band, or a new wine release party alongside the blueberry fields. Start your wine tour here and then follow the Handcrafted Passport trail to discover the ten other vineyard tasting rooms nearby.
A new addition to Grand Haven’s attractions is Fox and Hen Winery, run by Will and his wife, who are committed to producing quality wine and ciders with a “life on the farm” vibe. Visiting Fox and Hen Winery can add lots of flavor and fun to your day out with a tasting room and an on-site vineyard. They also offer charcuterie boards, snacks, and chocolate pairings.
North West Michigan & Upper Peninsula Wineries
Over 16 wineries are spread throughout the Petoskey Area and offer unique experiences and wines at each. Check out Boyne Valley Vineyard for their ‘Treehouse’ seating area with great views of the vineyard and countryside. Looking for a snack or a meal while you wine taste? Check out Pond Hill Farm or Petoskey Farms Vineyard this summer for some unique and amazing flavors.
Located just a few miles east off 131, Cadillac Winery has expanded with a new brewing operation to complement its small country winery. They specialize in cold-hearty vines and antique apples from the 100+ year old orchard that their Great Great Uncle George planted from 1900 to 1930. With live music booked all summer long, this is a great out of the way stop that you need to try.
Check out downtown Marquette’s Zephyr Wine Bar + Café to experience Michigan’s longest by-the-glass wine list plus great beer, cocktails, espresso and food. Boasting over 140 wines that span over 100 regions, this inspiring collection is every wine lover’s dream. Paired with specialty cured meats, cheeses and small plates, Zephyr is the perfect spot to experience memorable foods and wines. Make a reservation for their special dining experience, The Cellar, and enjoy a four-course, prix fixe menu, wine pairings selected by expert sommeliers and more.
Built on an one-hundred and fifty acre historic farm, Shady Lane Cellars produces a variety of small batch wines. Taking care and attention in every step of the process, Shady Lane Cellars is able to create expressively vibrant wines suited to enthusiasts and the average customer.
Travel along the Petoskey Wine Region trail and have the chance to visit sixteen different wineries across West Michigan’s coast. Enjoy world class wines, stunning views, and championship level slopes in any season of the year.
Bonobo Winery was founded by the Oosterhouse brothers with one simple mission in mind; to create award winning wines surrounded in the stunning beauty of their hometown with the support of their community.
From its origins as an asparagus farm, then turned horse breeding farm, the Blu Dot Farm & Vineyard has a rich and interesting history. This female-owned winery brings a touch of their own modern twist on classic favorites.
Chateau Chantal is equally committed to making amazing wines as they are about sustainability. The farm hosts a 148.5 kilowatt solar array to create the smallest environmental impact during their production. Chateau Chantal is also a center for West Michigan hospitality, with on-property bed & breakfast, residence, and six private home suites.
The 160-acre property at Black Star Farms is home to more than just a vineyard. The experience customers can have tucked away in the countryside rivals any northern getaway. Stay at the inn and delight in fine wines, delicious foods, and miles of trails and outdoor scenery.
The inspiration of Lost Cellars is a story of the american dream. Nunzio, an Italian immigrant, left his home in search of adventure and the chance to make his life better through hard work. After two long years he established his successful cellar and traveled back to italy. Generations later, Lost Cellars is creating exceptional wines in this same spirit.
Certified through the award winning sustainable in practice program, Waterfire Vineyards have an unparalleled commitment to protecting the great lakes. Using regenerative growing techniques, each vine is carefully attended to ensure the highest quality. Results of these practices can be tasted in any one of these speciality wines.
Travelers who find themselves on M-22 along the West Michigan coast are never let down by what Leelanau Cellars has to offer. With the tasting room set right on the waterfront, customers can enjoy one of the most picturesque locations to watch the sunset in West Michigan.
