J Vineyards, Mondavi Fume Blanc and breathtaking Old Mission Peninsula
Here’s some wine for thought to lift up your spirits on a gray, rainy Monday in Michigan.
Wine
Resident wine expert Sandra Silfven on all things vino
Michigan Wines
Chateau Chantal, the Rattlesnake and the Garden Party usher in summer
We’ve already had enough heat to get us into a summer mood. Now our state wineries and local restaurants are making it official. Following Memorial Day weekend, the wineries shift into longer summer hours and restaurants open their patios. Here’s a taste of what’s happening, along with a nice nod in Chicago to Michigan wineries. >> … Continue Reading →
2012 Great Lakes Great Wine Competition results
As wine competitions go, most are held in California and are international in flavor. States hold wine competitions for their own wines if the industry is big enough. So it’s rare when a small community college puts on its own competition, such as the Great Lakes Great Wine Competition by the Orchard Ridge Campus of Oakland … Continue Reading →
Michigan winemakers unsure about effects of mild winter
It may be the off-season, but Michigan wineries don’t exactly hibernate in the winter, though some cut back on hours or close for a while. But if you’re a frequent visitor in the summer, now is the time to beat the lines and get a jump on the new vintages, especially at the larger spots. … Continue Reading →
Wines of the Day
Clos de Los Siete Argentina 2009, $18: French flying winemaker Michel Rolland puts his name on the French-like front label of this red blend from Argentina. It’s pretty stylish stuff, and I’m betting you would never guess it was from Argentina — because of the bold, very California-like fruit. It’s a blend of Malbec, Merlot, … Continue Reading →
Romancing the Riesling on Michigan's Old Mission Peninsula
Old Mission Peninsula, a straight shot up M-37 out of Traverse City, offers one of the easiest-to-drive and scenic wine trails in the state, and you can experience it yourself on Saturday, Feb. 18, from 11 to 5 p.m., when the wineries pour the state’s signature grape for “Romancing the Riesling.” Details: Tickets are $15 … Continue Reading →