Old Mission & Leelanau Wineries: A Local's Tasting Guide for Fall 2026

Fall in Traverse City is magical — and there's no better way to experience it than from a wine tasting room overlooking the changing leaves. The Old Mission and Leelanau Peninsulas transform into a kaleidoscope of reds, oranges, and golds, making it the perfect time to explore Michigan's premier wine country.

Why Fall Is the Best Time for Wine Tasting

• Comfortable temperatures — No summer crowds or scorching heat
• Harvest season — Many wineries offer special harvest tastings and events
• Stunning views — Foliage makes every vineyard view postcard-perfect
• Cozy atmosphere — Crackling fireplaces and warm lighting in tasting rooms

#1 Chateau Grand Traverse

Location: Old Mission Peninsula
Known for: Riesling, Chambourcin

Chateau Grand Traverse is a Traverse City institution, and fall is arguably their best season. The hilltop location offers panoramic views of Grand Traverse Bay, especially breathtaking when the leaves change.

Must-try: Barrel-aged Riesling and their seasonal "Harvest Reserve" flight.

"The sunset views from the deck in October are unforgettable — perfect for a late-afternoon toast."

#2 Black Star Farms

Location: Old Mission Peninsula
Known for: Merlot, ses tu (red blend), cidars

Black Star Farms combines wine, cidars, and a beautiful lodge. Their new tasting room overlooking the vineyards is a fall gem.

Must-try: "Ses Tu" red blend and a flight of their award-winning cidars.

#3 2 Lads Winery

Location: Old Mission Peninsula
Known for: apples to apple seed cidars, winemaking

What started as a cidar adventure has become one of the most innovative cider and wine producers in the region. Their tasting room is warm and inviting.

Must-try: "Apple Seed" cidar and their wine-cidar blends.

#4 Cider Tree Cellar

Location: Leelanau Peninsula
Known for: Traditional method cidars, small-batch wines

Nestled in the heart of Leelanau, Cider Tree Cellar offers a quiet, intimate tasting experience. Their traditional method cidars are some of the best in Michigan.

Must-try: Traditional method cidar and their passion fruit cidar.

#5 Exposures Winery

Location: Old Mission Peninsula
Known for: Sauvignon Blanc, Rosé, Pinot Grigio

With a stunning glass-walled tasting room, Exposures offers something different. Try their white wine-focused flights.

#6 Peninsula Cider House

Location: Leelanau Peninsula
Known for: Bold, dry cidars, wine-cidar blends

This is cidar heaven. Their "Peninsula Malt" cidar is a local favorite, and their wine-cidar blends are surprisingly good.

Fall Tasting Tips

1. Book ahead — Fall is popular, and many wineries require reservations
2. Designate a driver — Or rent a Tesla with a driver
3. Wear layers — Mornings and evenings get chilly, even in October
4. Bring a camera — The fall colors are Instagram-worthy
5. Stay local — Tip Top Just 20 minutes from most peninsula wineries

Where to Stay

• The Marble Hotel — Downtown TC luxury
• Traverse City Lodge — Cozy cabin-style rooms
• Chef John's Cottages — Historic cottages near the peninsula

Bonus: Non-Wine Stops

• East Bay Brewery — German-style beers and pierogis
• Coco Louise Bakery — Fresh pastries for your tasting journey
• The Pickery — Local honey and jams

Pro tip: Print this list and check off your favorites as you go!

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Last updated: March 2026 | Cherry Festival season approaches June 29–July 6

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• Traverse City Uncorked 2026 guide
• Traverse City Food & Wine 2026 guide
• Dog-friendly Traverse City guide
• Fall in Traverse City
• Wineries and vineyards directory
• Best breweries in Traverse City