Shady Lane Cellars

Vineyard Manager

Andy Fles was born unto a quiet city-slicker (and very kind and generous) family from Muskegon. Although oblivious to agricultural life throughout his childhood, he did not let that deter him from a life wrapped in the rigors of farming. In keeping with doing things the hard way, he promptly had a son and started a family, THEN went off to attend Michigan State University as a full time parent and student. After 6 good years growing cherries and grapes for Peninsula Cellars, he now finds himself the vineyard manager at Shady Lane Cellars in Leelanau county, going on year eight. Andy oversees 65 acres of vines and a wonderful crew of 11 vineyard workers. He has brought recognition to Shady Lane for becoming a certified sustainable vineyard, as well as a desired supplier of premium winegrapes, striving to work with the ecosystem at every turn of the season. He is extremely proud that his son Levi will also be attending MSU this fall. Go Green!