What Is The Tip of the Mitt AVA?

The Tip of the Mitt American Viticultural Area (AVA) is situated at the northernmost point of Michigan’s Lower Peninsula. This beautiful region is defined by its unique geography and climate, which produce grapes with distinct flavors and characteristics. In this blog, we’ll explore what makes the Tip of the Mitt AVA unique and the wineries that call it home.

The Climate of the Tip of the Mitt AVA

The Tip of the Mitt AVA lies in the rain shadow of Lake Michigan, which moderates the area’s climate and provides a longer growing season. The region also experiences a phenomenon known as the lake effect, where cold air from the lake creates a microclimate that protects the vineyards from spring frosts and extends the growing season into the fall.

The Soil of the Tip of the Mitt AVA

The Tip of the Mitt AVA is home to diverse soils, including sandy, loamy, and clay soils. The sandy soils are well-draining and ideal for growing grape varietals that require ample drainage, while the clay soils are rich in nutrients and provide excellent water retention for the vines. This variety of soil types allows for a diverse range of grape varietals in the region.

The Grapes of the Tip of the Mitt AVA

The Tip of the Mitt AVA is best known for its white wine varietals, particularly Riesling and Chardonnay. These varietals thrive in the region’s cooler climate and produce wines with bright acidity, fruity aromas, and crisp flavors. The area also grows red grape varietals such as Pinot Noir, Cabernet Franc, and Merlot, which can fully ripen due to the microclimate created by the lake effect.

Wineries in the Tip of the Mitt AVA

The Tip of the Mitt AVA is home to several outstanding wineries, each offering a unique experience for visitors. The Petoskey Wine Region is situated in the Tip of the Mitt AVA, which encompasses 2,760 square miles throughout Alpena, Antrim, Charlevoix, Cheboygan, Emmet, and Presque Isle counties in the northern Lower Peninsula. Visit any of our 14 wineries to experience the Tip of the Mitt AVA at its finest.

The Tip of the Mitt AVA is a unique and exciting wine region worth exploring. With the cool climate, diverse soil types, and excellent grape varietals, the area produces wines that delight any wine lover. Plan a visit to the Petoskey Wine Region and discover our viticultural area’s delicious wines!