Wineries Of Leelanau County

For generations, much of the privately-owned land in the communities surrounding the Sleeping Bear Dunes was used for agricultural purposes, with sweet and tart cherries being the dominant crop. Although cherries are still a major crop – 50% of the nation’s cherries are grown in this five-county region – today’s farmers have found that the area's soils and climate are well-suited to grapes.

To date, 25 vineyards have been planted in Leelanau County, which is recognized as an AVA (American Viticultural Area), a distinguished region for growing grapes, of which there are only five in the state of Michigan. The 45th parallel maritime climate in Leelanau is comparable to only three other areas in the world: Piedmont, Bordeaux, and the Willamette Valley. So we are in great company! 

In addition to touring and tasting, the drives to the vineyards are along country roads with beautiful vistas. Here are a number that have been well-reviewed by previous guests: