Let’s raise our glass to the wines of the Old Mission Peninsula
The View and the Vines
As you drive out the Old Mission Peninsula in mid-summer, you will see the bucolic rolling hills dotted with cherry orchards just about to fruit, stunning views of Grand Traverse Bay, and roadside stands selling local goodies. It is truly a sight to behold. Words alone do not do this drive justice. You need to see it for yourself. Nestled among the orchards and breathtaking vistas are the vineyards and wineries that make up the Old Mission Peninsula Wine Trail.
There are ten wineries on this eighteen mile stretch of land. Each winery offers a unique atmosphere and accomplished winemakers showcase a stunning array of wines. It has become quite a scene, and you can expect to see many wine aficionados searching for the perfect glass and taking in the beauty of the region on any given day of the week. Though each and every winery offers a fine example of winemaking, here is just a taste of a few of the wineries on the trail that I love to visit again and again.
Mari Vineyards
The imposing stone facade of this winery resplendent with Spanish tile roof sits atop a ridge overlooking vines and water. As you ascend the winding drive, pass the wine cave with impressive wooden doors and up to the winery, you will feel as if you have been transported to a European landscape. The wine selection is nothing short of impressive- traditional grapes grown in the region alongside Italian varietals. Well balanced, with depth and complexity these are some of the most unique wines on the peninsula.
What I’m Drinking-
Rose- 2020 Bestiary Ramato
Red- 2020 Troglodyte Rosso
What I Can’t Miss-
The guided tours of their labyrinthian wine caves.
Website-
Bonobo Winery
With rustic chic decor, cute nooks for sipping wine, coupled with splendid views of vines, and quirky fun murals- this is an Instagramer’s paradise! A rather hip crowd flocks to this winery, so you can expect a lively atmosphere. The wine showcases the region’s best varietals, Pinot Noir, Chardonnays, Riesling and the like. An on-site kitchen provides great small plates for hungry folks and accommodates all dietary needs.
What I’m Drinking-
Bubbly- 2020 Blanc de Blancs
White- 2020 Pinot Gris
What I Can’t Miss-
Their monthly Food and Wine pairing. Three courses with wine for around $60. (Reservations required.)
Website-
Bowers Harbor Vineyards
Comfy and Cozy, this is one of the original wineries of the OMP Wine Trail and always a treat to visit. I love to end my wine journey here, sipping wine on an adirondack chair at the vineyard’s edge and taking in the distant view of Grand Traverse West Bay. It’s laid back, relaxed, and unpretentious. They have an impressive array of wines, ciders, and ports, all charming and represent the regional varietals extraordinarily well. There are many different setting configurations depending if you want to be with two, four, or twenty people and the lawn games are always fun to try your hand at.
What I’m Drinking-
Cider- N/V Spirit Cherry Apple Cider
Red- 2019 Claret, Wind Whistler
What I Can’t Miss-
The live music on their patio.
Website-
Honorable Mentions
The 2020 Cab Franc at 2 Lads Winery and the Froze at Brys Estates are also worth visiting!
Websites- 2 Lads Winery and Brys Estates
The Old Mission Peninsula Wine Trail is truly special, and fits nicely in the mosaic of fine wine regions of the country. Since the 1970’s the OMP winemakers have been working their magic, crafting palate pleasing wines that reflect the personality of both grape and regional environment. It has been exciting to see their journey over the years, and I for one am looking forward to seeing what’s next on the horizon for this AVA. For more information on all the amazing wineries on the Old Mission Peninsula Wine Trail, please visit their website. Cheers!
Please drink responsibly and always have a designated driver. There are many companies in the area that specialize in transportation with licensed drivers to get you to and fro. More information on transportation companies the OMP Wine Trail website.
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