As part of our celebration of Michigan Wine Month, we'll be featuring excerpts on each of Michigan's five wine trails (and one taking you beyond the trails) from the Michigan Notable Book award-winning From the Vine: Exploring Michigan Wineries.
(Old Mission Peninsula AVA)
The meso-climate of Old Mission Peninsula is unique not only in the state of Michigan but probably in the world. Lying on the 45th parallel (like Bordeaux, Milan, etc.), the Peninsula stretches 18 miles into Grand Traverse Bay and is only four miles wide at the broadest point. We are virtually surrounded by the 600 feet deep waters of East and West Bays. It stays cold longer in the spring, protecting us from the late frosts and warm longer in the fall when we benefit from an extra six to seven weeks of ripening. The rolling hills and lake-effect snow ensure that no Arctic blasts of freezing air will stay around long enough to harm our vines.
Since most of the volatile compounds which give any fruit its flavor are formed during the last few weeks for ripening, warm (not hot!) dry conditions in October are key in creating the fully ripe, unique wines of the Old Mission Peninsula. Our maritime climate in the middle of North America’s vast continental climate provides these conditions for us. We get the warmth when we need it most. The fantastic growing seasons provide us with wines that match and even top the best wines of many of the worlds more famous growing regions.
--Mark Johnson, Winemaker, Chateau Chantal
Get information about the wineries & winemakers of the Old Mission Peninsula including their upcoming Blossom Days event (May 17 & 18).
From the Vine: Exploring Michigan Wineries is a must-have for wine enthusiasts, first-time tasters and travel buffs alike. Authors Sharon Kegerreis and Lorri Hathaway capture the personalities of the hardworking families behind the wines and the exceptional experiences awaiting you at 51 Michigan wineries.
The 192-page hardcover book, honored as a 2008 Michigan Notable Book, begins with an insightful foreword by Governor Jennifer Granholm and wraps up with a handy wine glossary. The book is organized by four designated wine trails and “beyond the trails,” providing a sneak peek at Michigan’s wine trail destinations. Interesting tidbits on wine topics including Pinot Grigio vs. Pinot Gris, Syrah vs. Shiraz, Sparkling Wine: Why Can’t We Call It Champagne? and Ice Wine provide basic answers to lingering questions; and delicious side stories on local chocolate and cheese artisans tempt your taste buds.
Grab a glass of your favorite Michigan wine and let the beautiful photographs and intriguing stories take you on a journey through Michigan wine country. Order autographed copies of From the Vine at www.michiganvine.com during the month of April and get a $5 discount and free wine journal.
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