Between the Bays

Black Star Farms on the Leelanau Peninsula combines award-winning wines with hearty American cuisine that satisfies the whole family. Their tasting room pours estate-grown varietals while the restaurant serves up comfort food classics alongside more adventurous dishes. Kids can explore the grounds while adults sample wine flights. The working farm atmosphere keeps things relaxed and unpretentious. Located just a scenic drive from Traverse City, this winery-restaurant hybrid delivers quality food and wine without the fuss. Their wood-fired pizzas and locally-sourced steaks pair beautifully with Pinot Noir and Riesling.

Boathouse Vineyards sits right on the shoreline of the Leelanau Peninsula, where you can sip wine while waves lap just feet away. This waterfront winery combines serious winemaking with an unbeatable location - think maritime charm meets Michigan terroir. Their tasting room captures that authentic lakeside vibe without the tourist trap feel. The vineyard specializes in cool-climate varieties that thrive in this unique microclimate, shaped by Lake Michigan's influence. You'll find everything from crisp Rieslings to bold reds, all crafted with the kind of attention to detail that puts Leelanau Peninsula on the wine map.

BOS Wine transforms your Antrim County getaway into something extraordinary. This boutique property combines comfortable accommodations with an impressive wine program that showcases Michigan's finest vintages. Each room tells its own story through carefully curated wine selections and thoughtful amenities. The rustic-chic atmosphere captures Northern Michigan's natural beauty while maintaining modern comfort. Wake up to rolling vineyard views, spend afternoons sampling local varietals, and drift off to sleep surrounded by the gentle sounds of wine country. The knowledgeable staff shares genuine passion for Michigan's wine heritage, making every stay memorable.

King Orchards transforms the rolling hills of Antrim County into a paradise of cherry trees and tart cherry wine. The family-owned operation has been growing Michigan's famous tart cherries for decades, turning their harvest into surprisingly sophisticated wines that capture the essence of northern Michigan summers. Their tasting room overlooks endless rows of cherry trees, where spring blossoms give way to ruby-red fruit. The tart cherry wine balances sweetness with that signature Michigan cherry tang, creating something uniquely regional. You'll taste the difference that comes from orchards where cherry farming runs in the family blood.

Step into Leelanau Cellars and you'll discover why this family-owned winery has been crafting exceptional wines on the Leelanau Peninsula for decades. The welcoming tasting room invites you to sample everything from crisp Rieslings that capture the essence of Michigan's cool climate to robust reds that surprise even the most discerning palates. The knowledgeable staff shares stories behind each vintage while you sip and savor. Outside, rolling vineyards stretch toward Grand Traverse Bay, creating a backdrop that's quintessentially Northern Michigan. This isn't just wine tasting – it's experiencing the passion and tradition of Michigan winemaking.

You know those hidden gems that locals keep to themselves? Nugent Orchards is one of those places in Benzie County. This family-run operation grows some seriously good fruit, and their tasting room pours wines that actually capture the essence of Northern Michigan terroir. What really sets them apart is how dog-friendly they are – your pup can hang out while you sample their cherry wine or sip something made from their own apples. The vibe is relaxed and unpretentious, just good wine and genuine hospitality in a beautiful orchard setting.