A Guide to Wine Tasting in Traverse City and Leelanau Peninsula

Headed to Traverse City this summer? If you love wine you’re probably planning a visit to some of the popular wineries in the area. Whether you’re just getting into wine or you’re a wine expert I’m sharing some helpful tips and my favorite wineries on Old Mission Peninsula and Leelanau Peninsula. Also, If you’re searching for a place to stay in Traverse City check out my recent blog post about Grand Traverse Resort & Spa! Below you’ll find my guide to wine tasting in Traverse City and Leelanau Peninsula.

A Few Helpful Tips

1.Make a plan – If you’re planning to visit multiple wineries make sure you have a designated driver or check out one of these wine tours to help you get around.

2. Don’t be afraid to try something new – The best part about wine tasting is the opportunity to try a different variety or type of wine you might not be familiar with. Ask your wine server questions to learn more about how the wine is produced and what makes it unique.

3. Take it slow – If it’s a beautiful day in the area soak up the views and don’t feel rushed. Many wineries offer activities (ex: playing cornhole) and the opportunity to purchase food.

4. Cost to taste wine – Each winery charges a different price for their wine tastings or glasses of wine. Check the individual websites or call the winery to learn more about the different costs involved.

Guide to Wine Tasting in Traverse City

Wineries I Love on Old Mission Peninsula

Mari Vineyards:

You can’t miss Mari Vineyards as you drive up Old Mission Peninsula. You might think you ended up traveling to Italy when you see this stunning winery and walk inside. If you’re a fan of red wine this is the place for you as they specialize in grapes that typically aren’t produced on the peninsula. This is also a great winery to sit outside and enjoy the spectacular views!

I would highly recommend looking into the tours that are offered at Mari for a behind the scenes look at the building. I went on a tour earlier this spring and had an amazing time learning more about the wines and what makes the building unique.

My Favorite Wines: Bel Tramonto, Rosato, and Chardonnay

Brys Estate

Brys Estate is a must visit when you’re on Old Mission Peninsula and one spot that I would plan to spend some extra time. Try some wines inside or grab a glass and enjoy the view from the upper deck and bridge. This is a great spot to also enjoy a cheese and charcuterie board. Brys Estate also offers tours if you’re interested in learning more about the types of wine they produce.

I would also recommend driving down to their Secret Garden for the amazing lavender fields and gift shop. The ice cream from Moomers is a must try.

My Favorites Wines: Pinot Blanc, Naked Chardonnay, and Cab Merlot. Also, the Frosé is a must during the summer.

Bowers Harbor

You can’t go wrong with a stop at Bowers Harbor. I’ve been really impressed with the wines here and the property also offers a trail to snowshoe, hike or walk. If you’re interested in learning more about the wines Bower’s Harbor also offers seasonal tours.

My Favorite Wines: Unwooded Chardonnay and Claret

2 Lads

You’ll love the view and wine from the tasting room at 2 Lads. The view really is so amazing and we have always had a great experience tasting the wines. Check out the private tours and tastings if you want to learn more!

My Favorite Wines: Sparkling Rose, Chardonnay, and Cabernet Franc

Bonobo

Bonobo is a great spot to spend some time outdoors with a glass of wine. The view from the deck is amazing so be sure to enjoy your time at this winery. If you’re with a group you and learn more about their tasting tours.

My Favorite Wines: Pinot Gris, Chardonnay C, and Rose

Wineries I Love on Leelanau Peninsula

Mawby

If you love sparkling wine (cheers!) you have to try Mawby. They have a variety of different sparkling wine and I would suggest trying their paid tasting flights that feature 2 sparkling wines paired with small bites of food. Cheers!

My Favorite Wines: Sandpiper, Grace, and Blanc de Blancs

Blustone Vineyards

I love Blustone Vineyards so much I’m actually a wine club member here. The modern building and spectacular wine just can’t be missed if you’re in the area. If you love red wine this is another winery that does red really well. Cory and I love grabbing a sandwich from Village Cheese Shanty in Leland before heading to Blustone to relax outdoors with a glass of wine #perfection.

My Favorite Wines: Ad Lib, Winemaker’s Red, and Chardonnay

Black Star Farms

We love visiting Black Star Farms on the Leelanau Peninsula during the summer months. They also have a location on Old Mission Peninsula which is great, but if you have the chance visit them in Leelanau. They have an amazing farm, outdoor patio and a wonderful cafe.

My Favorite Wines: BeDazzled, Arcturos Pinot Noir, and Arcturos Pinot Gris

Verterra

I always have to stop at Verterra while we’re in Leland. They have some of my favorite white wines in the area that we love pairing with fresh fish from Carlson’s. The Unoaked Chardonnay might be my all time favorite Michigan wine.

My Favorite Wines: Unoaked Chardonnay, Pinot Blanc, and Sparkling Rose

Shady Lane Cellars

Shady Lane Cellars has been a favorite of my family for many years. We could easily spend a couple of hours here enjoying a glass of wine while playing a competitive round of cornhole outside.

My Favorite Wines: Pinot Gris, Pomeranz, and Pinot Noir Rose

I hope you enjoyed this guide to wine tasting in Traverse City and Leelanau Peninsula!

Disclosure: I worked with Traverse City Tourism and Grand Traverse Resort and Spa on this post but all opinions here are my own. Thank you for supporting the sponsors who allow me to continue to create content on The GR Guide.