A visit to the Petoskey Wine Region is an experience not found in any other wine region. Away from the shores of Little Traverse Bay, the Northern Michigan countryside is dotted with inland lakes, rolling hills, and rich farmland. The unique climate produces grapes and wines distinctive to Northern Michigan. Between Harbor Springs and Alanson, three wineries flourish in this scenic place.
Crooked Vine Vineyard and Winery
At Crooked Vine Vineyard and Winery near Alanson, the beautiful landscape is part of the experience. They invite you to tour the grounds. A walk through the vineyard gives you an up-close look at the special, cold, hardy grapes cultivated for the Northern Michigan weather. In the background is a panoramic view of the lush, green surrounding hills. You can also take a stroll through the woods.
The finale is a visit to the Crooked Vine tasting room for a sample of the bounty produced by the incredible landscape. They have a variety of wines: dry reds, whites, semi-sweet and sweet. These wines are made with grape varieties specific to Michigan that aren’t found outside Northern Michigan.
Pond Hill Farm
There’s so much to do and see at Pond Hill Farm near Harbor Springs. The charming farm atmosphere is family-friendly. You can bring everyone along and make a day of it. Start your visit by enjoying the outdoors. Stretch your legs with a walk through their vineyard. They also have a trail system that you are welcome to hike in the summer. In the winter, you can cross-country ski, snowshoe, or fat tire bike the groomed trails.
There are a variety of activities for children at the farm that vary with the seasons. A Gnome House Hunt takes you on an adventure through the woods, and there’s a prize at the end! A sledding hill is also open for children in the winter. A livestock barn and playground round out the activities for kids.
All of the fun is sure to work up an appetite. Stop by the on-site cafe for a bite to eat. The menu has something for everyone, including pizza. For adults, the cafe’s menu features the farm’s wine, beer, and hard cider. Blueberry and Cherry are just a couple of Pond Hill Farm’s popular hard cider flavors. You can also indulge in their wines made from estate-grown grapes, including Pond Hill White, Vignoles, and their dessert wine, Harvest Moon La Crescent. There’s also a Biergarten Tent, heated in the winter, where food and drink are served.
Finally, you’ll want to stop at the farm’s market before heading out. You can stock up on fresh produce, homemade canned goods, and the farm’s wine, beer, and cider there.
Seasons of the North Winery
Seasons of the North Winery near Burt Lake is a small family-owned winery that produces its wine on-site. They enjoy educating visitors about the unique process of growing grapes and producing wine in Northern Michigan. All of their wine is made with Michigan-grown grapes. They also have a brewery next door where you can sample their housemade beer. Their specialty is developing local wines that pair perfectly with locally grown Michigan food. You can sample their wines at the tasting or while you relax on their patio.
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