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What Michigan Wine Events Are You Attending this Weekend?

There is a ton going on in the Michigan world of wine this weekend:

• Epicurean Classic - St Joseph
• Annual Harvest Party - Round Barn Winery
• Corks For Conservation - Binder Park Zoo
• Wine & Food Festival - Meadowbrook
• Knitting and Spinning Day - Sandhill Crane Vineyards
• Chocolate, Cheese, & Wine Extravaganza - Cascade Cellars

See my Calendar of Events for additional events.

The 45th Magazine's Short Take on Cab Franc Challenge

Nothing new here, but I have never seen one Michigan wine event get so much press! Let's keep it coming!

Another View on the Michigan Cab Franc Challenge

Before the Cab Franc Challenge, what did wine writers and bloggers have to write about?

William mentions in his article that one poorly made wine made him put his hand to his mouth and his knees buckled. I watched him taste this wine and I thought that maybe he had tasted the one French wine in the bunch;)

Old MIssion Peninsula Wine & Food Celebration

On September 12, 2009, The Wineries of Old Mission Peninsula have teamed up with area restaurant for the third annual Old Mission Peninsula Wine & Food Celebration.

The event will run from 3-8PM at Bowers Harbor Park on Old Mission Peninsula.

Northwestern Michigan College Community Concert Band will be providing live music.  

Tickets are $15 and include a souvenir wine glass and 3 tasting tickets. Additional tasting tickets are $2. Food will be available for purchase from $3-$10.

Participating restaurants:

• Peninsula Grill & Bad Dog Deli
• The Boathouse Restaurant
• Bowers Harbor Inn
• Old Mission Tavern
• Peninsula Market
• Old Mission General Store

For further information contact Black Star Farms at 231-944-1300 or visit the WOMP website.

Sour Grapes at the Michigan Cab Franc Challenge?

After 2 South African winemakers transplanted on Old Mission Peninsula, some feathers are getting ruffled. Personally, I thought there were many great Cab Francs at the challenge, but I don't disagree with the winners.

Go To Wine School with Bowers Harbor's Spencer Stegnega

Bowers Harbor winemaker and proprietor Spencer Stegenga will be conducting a fun and educational class on summer wines at Mangiamo! in Grand Rapids. It will take place on Thursday, August 27th at 6pm.  The outdoor event will feature Bowers Harbor wines accompanied with fresh summer vegetables off the grill. The cost is $15.

Mangiamo! is located at 1033 Lake Drive SE, Grand Rapids. Please call 616.742.0600 for reservations.

Video Report: Michigan Winemakers Discuss the Future of Red Wines in Michigan

At the Cab Franc Challenge, I had an opportunity to discuss the future of red wines in Michigan with the winemakers. Here is what they had to say.

Meet the Artist at Fenn Valley Winery on September 5th

On September 5th, Fenn Valley Winery will unveil their new grape sculpture created by local artist Rolando Mancera. The event starts at 1pm and will continue until 5pm as Rolando displays more of his art.

Visit Fenn Valley's website for more information.

Founders Wine Cellar Opens in Baroda

A new winer from a longtime winemaker Len Olson. Let's put off our weekend chores and show Len how much we appreciate Michigan wines.

Pure Michigan Ad Features Black Star Farms

I love those ads. I am excited to see some of the energy focused on promoting the state's great wineries.

Video Report: Winemakers Discuss What Makes Their Cab Franc Unique

I spoke with several of the winemakers at the Cab Franc Challenge, held on August 20th at the Park Club in Kalamazoo. They discussed what makes their Cab Franc unique.

Winery Sales in West Michigan Are Up!

Who would not want to stay close to home and visit wineries! If you have not visited the wineries that are within an hour or two away from you, you should carve out some time next weekend.

Calling all Logo Designers

The wineries of Old Mission Peninsula are having a logo contest for their 2009 Mac & Cheese Bake-off event. 

Finalists will be on display at the event on September 12th, where attendees will vote for the winner. The winner will receive a $100 gift certificate to the Northern Michigan restaurant of their choice and recognition on all marketing material.

Submit entries in PDF format by September 11th to news@wineriesofoldmission.com.

Photos from the Cab Franc Challenge

Click here for more photos from the event.

Video Report from the Cab Franc Challenge

This is the first video report from the Cab Franc Challenge. 

Come back soon for a second video report , in which the winemakers 

talk about their own Cabernet Franc.

Yes... We Have Wine Country in Michigan

The folks from 1-800-Hotels are finally getting on board.

Brys Estate Captures Cab Cup

Congrats to Brys Estate and their winemaker Coenraad Stassen. I tasted this wine and it was indeed fantastic. (I will be posting photos, video, and more about my experience at the event over the weekend.)

Sip and Savor at Wine and Arts Festival

Events like this make me wish I loved in Traverse City.