If you haven't already ventured out onto the Lake Michigan Shore Wine Trail, it's time to make plans to do so soon. Spring-time kicks off a budding tourism season in Michigan wine country, and April has been declared “Michigan Wine Month” to honor our state’s wide selection of quality wines and the wine industry’s significant contribution to the economy.
The number of wineries in the state continues to grow, with 121 producers of Michigan wine currently recognized by the Michigan Grape and Wine Industry Council, a program within the Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development that is charged with supporting industry growth.
Michigan wineries attract more than 2 million visitors each year, a testament to the exquisite charm of the state’s wine country and quality of wine being produced. The majority of wineries are near Michigan’s beautiful shorelines, as the Great Lakes facilitate optimum growing conditions for wine grapes.
Michiganders have long known that our wine country ranks among the best in the world, but national and international audiences are now paying attention as well. That is evidenced by more than 500 awards earned by 30 producers of Michigan wine in national competitions in 2015 alone. In addition, Michigan ranks among global company, as one of CNN’s 10 Up-and-coming Wine Regions.
Gordon Wenk is Chief Deputy Director of the Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development. He says, "I am proud to acknowledge the outstanding reputation that Michigan vintners are creating for the Michigan wine industry.” Wenk is also the chair of the Michigan Grape and Wine Industry Council. He tells us, “The industry is a shining example of value-added agriculture, contributing to the agricultural and tourism economies of our beautiful state. The quality of our wines, unique local foods and the scenic beauty of ‘Pure Michigan’ make Michigan an unparalleled winery touring region in the U.S.”
During Michigan Wine Month, travelers are encouraged to venture out and sample wines in one of Michigan’s many beautiful tasting rooms, and participate in one of the many wine events taking place around the state.
Here is a sampling of some of the events taking place to kick off the touring season:
- Spring Sip & Savor: April 30-May1 – Leelanau Peninsula Wine Trail
- Blossom Day: May 14 – Wineries of Old Mission Peninsula
- Michigan Wine Showcase: May 23 – The Rattlesnake Club, Detroit
- Lake Michigan Shore Wine Festival: June 18 – Lake Michigan Shore Wine Trail
April also marks the release of 2016 Michigan Wine Country magazine, an indispensable guide to the wines and wineries of Michigan, featuring maps and touring information. Michigan Wine Country is available online at www.michiganwines.com. Pick up a free copy at any Michigan winery or Travel Michigan Welcome Center, as well as at the Southwestern Michigan Tourist Council at Pipestone and I-94 alongside Bob Evans Restaurant. To request a copy by mail, visit www.michiganwines.com or contact the Michigan Grape and Wine Industry Council at 517-284-5736.
Plan your winery tour and learn more about Michigan’s grape and wine industry at www.michiganwines.com.
For a complete compendium of local wineries along the Lake Michigan Shore Wine Trail and what they have to offer, click this link now: http://miwinetrail.com/
