All Regions
AlsaceAustralia
Austria
California
Germany
Idaho
Michigan
New York (Finger Lakes)
New Zealand
Ontario
Oregon
Other Regions
South Africa
Washington
Michigan
Michigan is one of the top ten wine-producing states in the United States. Its Rieslings are becoming recognized and respected in national and international wine circles, winning awards on the world stage.
Riesling was first officially planted in 1969 at Tabor Hill Winery in the town of Buchanon, located in the state’s southwest corner.
In the mid-1970s, Ed O’Keefe, founder of Chateau Grand Traverse winery, planted Riesling and today the estate grows 100 percent vinifera grapes. At the time it was a daring venture as most industry experts felt that Michigan’s climate was too cold to commercially grow grapes.
Working under the guidance of Dr. Helmut Becker from the Geisenheim Oenological and Viticultural School in what was then West Germany, O’Keefe determined that the Old Mission Peninsula near Traverse City could potentially afford the right conditions for growing European grape varieties. Within a few years Chateau Grand Traverse wines were winning awards and gaining notice among wine critics.
Today, many Michigan vineyards grow Riesling. The cool climate Riesling grape is at home in Michigan’s New World environs. And the world is discovering that Michigan offers yet another respected expression of the noble grape.
Friends
BLACK STAR FARMS – In the heart of Michigan Wine Country, Black Star Farms is a true one-of-a-kind destination with two wineries, three tasting rooms, a luxury Inn, cafe, stables and event venues. Nestled among the gorgeous rolling hills of the Leelanau Peninsula, the wineries’ “lake effect” climate enables the growing of classic vinifera Riesling as well as other varieties. Black Star’s varietal wines are of high character, acidity, and balance. Fruit is sourced from both the proprietor’s vineyards and from those of local grower partners.
BLACKSTARFARMS.COM
CHATEAU GRAND TRAVERSE – The O’Keefe family has been producing world-class quality wines on Old Mission Peninsula since 1974. As the pioneers in growing vinifera grapes in northern Michigan, their mission is to create expressive, classic-style wines while incorporating sustainable growing practices in their 120 acres of estate vineyards. Chateau Grand Traverse continues to define the Michigan wine industry with their award-winning Riesling wines as well as many other styles. CGTWINES.COM
