Among wine regions in America, there are a few states that receive the most recognition. California, Oregon and Washington are major players in the viniculture industry and, rightfully so, as they produce fantastic wines. While these regions offer impressive venues to enjoy wine, an underrated experience is to visit smaller, less famous wine regions. Michigan, a state located in the upper Midwest of the United States, is best known for its beautiful landscape with destinations including The Great Lakes, Mackinac Island and Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore. The state is also known for agriculture and is a leader in the production of cherries, blueberries and apples. One lesser-known fact about Michigan is that it is the 7th largest producer of wine in the United States. As a wine lover and connoisseur, I was surprised to discover this and therefore, had to see what the hype is about.

There are five wine grape regions in Michigan, known as American Viticultural Areas (AVAs). These areas produce over fifty grape varieties. The first winery in Michigan opened in the 19th century but the industry growth was limited due to the American Prohibition. During this time, many vineyards were forced to close but some survived by selling their grapes to Welch’s Grape Juice Company. By the 1980s, a steady influx of new wineries emerged and today, there are almost 200 wineries in Michigan. For my wine trail, I chose to explore the American Viticulture Area of Fennville which sits along the shores of Lake Michigan.

American Viticulture Areas in Michigan- photo credit: Michigan Wine Country

Fenn Valley Vineyards

My first stop is Fenn Valley Vineyards, an established winery located in Fennville that has been in operation since 1973. The location of this winery was strategically chosen due to its proximity to Lake Michigan. The lake offers a cooling effect in the summer months and moderate temperature regulation in the winter months. The selection of wines at Fenn Valley Vineyards is vast and impressive. In their tasting room, you’ll find white, red and rosé varieties. You’ll also find dessert and sparkling wines. As a testament to Michigan’s fruit production, Fenn Valley Vineyards crafts fruit wines and hard ciders as well. During the tasting, my favorite wine was the sparkling Bubbling Rosé. It is dry and refreshing with notes of strawberry and vanilla. The ciders are equally delicious and taste like you’ve taken a bite out of a fresh apple.

Modales Winery

Take a short drive away from Fenn Valley Vineyards and you’ll arrive at Modales Winery. Modales opened in 2019 and the tasting room sits on land with century-old peach and cherry orchards. The tasting room is beautiful and modern. Enjoy wine at the bar or on their insulated patio with lovely views of the surrounding vineyards. The goal of Modales Winery is to make stand-out wines using a responsible, sustainable practices. As evidence of this commitment, Modales achieved their organic certification designation in 2024. For my tasting, I chose a flight which included the 2024 Rosé, 2023 Lone Silo Grüner Veltliner, 2023 LMS Pinot Blanc and 2018 Chardonnay. These wines are clean, refreshing and beg to be enjoyed on a warm, sunny day.

Crane’s Pie Pantry Restaurant & Winery

Crane’s is not your typical vineyard but should absolutely be on your list while exploring West Michigan wineries. This family-run business started as an orchard over a century ago in 1916. By the 1970s, Crane’s became a popular destination for visitors and it remains as such today. At Crane Orchards, you can enjoy seasonal “U-pick” apples, peaches and cherries. At Crane’s Pie Pantry Restaurant, traditional American fare is served alongside hard ciders and yes, small-batch wines. There is one rule when you visit this local establishment: you cannot leave without trying their famous, old-fashioned fruit pies. You can order pie by the slice but why not live a little and order the delectable pie flight? This flight includes a tasting of four fruit pies served with whipped cream and local gelato. I paired my pie flight with Crane’s 2021 Merlot and it was the highlight of my day.

Pie flight, Crane’s Pie Pantry Restaurant & Winery

Small-batch wines, Crane’s Pie Pantry Restaurant & Winery

Fox & Hen Winery

The final stop on my West Michigan wine trail is Fox & Hen Winery in Grand Haven. This is a new winery that opened in 2023 with vineyards located a bit north of the Fennville AVA. Fox & Hen has a cozy, no frills tasting room that is welcoming and gives off an easy, local vibe. This winery grows hardy French grape varieties that can tolerate cold, Michigan winters. They offer a good selection of clean, refreshing white wines and bold, flavorful red wines. And, in true Michigan fashion, Fox & Hen also crafts a selection of crisp hard ciders.

Now, it’s time for your West Michigan wine trail- cheers!

An Unexpected Wine Trail: Michigan Vineyards

Fenn Valley Vineyards

Modales Winery

Crane’s Pie Pantry Restaurant & Winery

Fox & Hen Winery

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