Foreword by Governor Jennifer Granholm
The unique beauty of Michigan’s two peninsulas is enveloped by 3,200 miles of fresh water. More than 100 historic lighthouses dot the picturesque Great Lakes shorelines where treasured Petoskey stones are often uncovered. Inland, more than 11,000 lakes and rivers mark our rolling countryside and wined through our dense forests of sky-high pines, maples and spruces.
Our Great Lakes state is also home to acres of fields and orchards bearing apples, cherries, blueberries and deliciously diverse fruit and vegetable crops. A notable fruit growing on more than 13,000 acres of hillsides are grapes for jams, jellies and grape juice, and one of Michigan’s fastest growing industries — wine.
On the pages of From the Vine, you’ll discover individual personalities of our winemakers – people dedicated to bringing you fine wines with character and flavor that reflect our unique Great Lakes growing conditions and soils. These wines are standouts at national and international competitions, winning awards against wines from renowned winemaking regions worldwide. Expect to be delighted — and surprised — by the world-class wines being produced in Michigan.
It’s time to explore Michigan by taking an enjoyable journey into our celebrated wine country. Learn what to expect and what not to miss and meet those who are sculpting new territory with their wines. Then plan your getaway to our eclectic and award-winning wineries, glorious vineyards, and unbeatable natural wonders to create your own memories along the trail.
–Governor Jennifer Granholm