Learn about the History of Michigan Wine, Michigan Microclimates and discover Michigan Wine Trails, including the Fennville Wine Trail, Leelanau Peninsula Wine Trail, Lake Michigan Shore Wine Trail, Old Mission Peninsula Wine Trail, and Tip of the Mitt Wine Trail. Michigan's viticultural and unique microclimates shaped by its positioning along the 45-degree latitude. Tracing its origins to pioneers like Ed O'Keefe, who introduced European vinifera cultivation on the Old Mission Peninsula. Explore Michigan's diverse wine trails. Among Michigan's renowned wineries stands St. Julian Winery, the state's oldest continuously operating winery, symbolizing the enduring tradition of winemaking in the region. O'Keefe's pioneering efforts laid the foundation for future successes, notably Chateau Grand Traverse, exemplifying Michigan's growing reputation as a premier wine destination.

Discover the winemaking history and wine trails of Michigan's Traverse City Wine Coast, home to the renowned Leelanau Peninsula Wine Trail and Old Mission Peninsula Wine Trail. Traverse three distinct trails on the Leelanau Peninsula: Sleeping Bear Loop, Northern Loop, and Grand Traverse Bay Loop, each offering a unique tasting experience. Explore the legacy of Bernie Rink and Boskydel Vineyard, the first commercial winery on the Leelanau Peninsula, and the journey of Larry Mawby, pioneering sparkling wine production at MAWBY Vineyards. On the Old Mission Peninsula, delve into the stories of Robert Begin of Chateau Chantal and Ed O'Keefe of Chateau Grand Traverse, the trailblazers behind Michigan's winemaking renaissance. O'Keefe's visionary approach led to the establishment of the first large-scale vinifera vineyard in Michigan, shaping the future of winemaking in the region.