Apr 1, 2016

Gov. Snyder proclaims April ‘Michigan Wine Month’

April has been declared “Michigan Wine Month” to honor Michigan’s wide selection of quality wines and the wine industry’s significant contribution to the economy, Michigan Governor Rick Snyder said.

The number of wineries in the state continues to grow, with 121 producers of Michigan wine currently recognized by the Michigan Grape and Wine Industry Council, a program within the Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development that is charged with supporting industry growth.

Michigan wineries attract more than 2 million visitors each year, according to the council.  The majority of wineries are near Michigan’s shorelines, as the Great Lakes facilitate optimum growing conditions for wine grapes.

More than 500 awards were earned by 30 producers of Michigan wine in national competitions in 2015.  In addition, Michigan ranks among global company, as one of CNN’s 10 Up-and-coming Wine Regions.

During Michigan Wine Month, travelers are encouraged to venture out and sample wines in one of Michigan’s many tasting rooms, and participate in one of the many wine events taking place around the state.

Here is a sampling of some of the events taking place to kick off the touring season:

• Art Along the Trail:  April 9-10  – Southeast Michigan Pioneer Wine Trail (pioneerwinetrail.com)
• Spring Sip & Savor: April 30-May1 – Leelanau Peninsula Wine Trail (lpwines.com)
• Blossom Day:  May 14 – Wineries of Old Mission Peninsula (wineriesofoldmission.com)
• Michigan Wine Showcase:   May 23 – The Rattlesnake Club, Detroit (michiganwines.com/showcase)
• Lake Michigan Shore Wine Festival:  June 18 – Lake Michigan Shore Wine Trail (miwinetrail.com)

April also marks the release of 2016 Michigan Wine Country magazine, a guide to the wines and wineries of Michigan, featuring maps and touring information. Free copies are available at any Michigan winery or Travel Michigan Welcome Center. To request a copy, visit www.michiganwines.com or contact the Michigan Grape and Wine Industry Council at 517-284-5736.

Plan your winery tour and learn more about Michigan’s grape and wine industry at www.michiganwines.com.

View the proclamation signed by Governor Snyder.