Want to sip wine surrounded by beauty?
Buckle up, wine enthusiasts and scenery lovers, because we’re about to embark on a grape adventure through the Great Lakes State!
1. Bonobo Winery (Traverse City)
Nestled in the heart of Traverse City, Bonobo Winery is like that overachieving cousin who’s good at everything.
With its stunning views of Grand Traverse Bay and rows of meticulously maintained vines, it’s a feast for both the eyes and the palate.
The tasting room, with its modern barn-like structure and red roof, practically screams “Instagram me!”
But let’s be honest, you’re here for the wine, not just the pretty pictures.
As you sip on their award-winning Chardonnay, you might find yourself wondering if you’ve accidentally stumbled into a Bob Ross painting.
The rolling hills, the pristine vineyards, the distant shimmering waters – it’s almost too perfect.
But unlike Bob’s “happy little trees,” these vines are very real and very delicious.
2. Chateau Chantal Winery and Inn (Traverse City)
If Hogwarts had a wine program, it would probably look something like Chateau Chantal.
Perched atop a hill on Old Mission Peninsula, this winery-inn combo offers views that’ll make you question if you’re still in Michigan or if you’ve been magically transported to the French countryside.
The chateau itself looks like it was plucked straight out of a fairy tale, complete with turrets and all.
But instead of rescuing princesses, you’ll be rescuing yourself from the mundane with their exquisite wines.
And let’s not forget the sunsets – they’re so spectacular, you might actually forget to take a sip.
Almost.
3. Brys Estate Vineyard & Winery (Traverse City)
Brys Estate is what happens when you mix a dash of Napa Valley with a heaping helping of Midwest charm.
The moment you step onto their sprawling deck, you’re hit with a view that’s more intoxicating than their wines (and that’s saying something).
The vineyard stretches out before you like a green carpet, rolling down to the sparkling waters of East Grand Traverse Bay.
It’s the kind of view that makes you want to quit your job, buy a vineyard, and live out your days as a wine-soaked philosopher.
But before you hand in your resignation, maybe try their Pinot Noir first.
4. Black Star Farms (Suttons Bay)
Black Star Farms is like the Swiss Army knife of wineries – it does everything, and it does it well.
Nestled in the heart of Leelanau Peninsula, this place isn’t just a winery; it’s a full-blown agricultural wonderland.
With its inn, creamery, and stables, you might forget you came here for the wine.
But trust me, the wine will remind you.
The property is a picturesque blend of rolling hills, lush vineyards, and rustic charm.
Their tasting room, housed in a beautiful white barn-like structure, offers views that’ll make you want to write poetry.
Even if you’ve never written a poem in your life.
It’s that inspiring.
5. 2 Lads Winery (Traverse City)
2 Lads Winery is proof that sometimes, less is more.
Perched on a hill overlooking East Grand Traverse Bay, this modern, minimalist winery lets the stunning views do most of the talking.
And boy, do those views have a lot to say.
Related: Savor Scrumptious Log Cabin Cafe and Bakery Eats at Michigan’s Bojack’s
Related: This Hidden Michigan Drive-in Serves the Best Burgers and Shakes in the State
Related: This Tiny Mexican Restaurant in Michigan has a Carnitas Tamale Famous throughout the State
The sleek, contemporary building with its floor-to-ceiling windows feels like it’s barely touching the earth, giving you the sensation of floating above the vineyards.
It’s the kind of place that makes you feel cooler just by being there.
Like wearing sunglasses indoors, but without looking like a tool.
6. Tabor Hill Winery & Restaurant (Buchanan)
Tabor Hill is the overachiever of Southwest Michigan’s wine scene.
Not content with just being a winery, they went ahead and added a top-notch restaurant to the mix.
Because why sip wine on an empty stomach when you can pair it with gourmet food and panoramic vineyard views?
The winery’s hilltop location offers a vista that stretches for miles, making you feel like you’re on top of the world.
Or at least on top of Michigan’s wine country.
The building itself, with its charming stone facade and red-roofed pavilion, looks like it was designed by someone who really understands the importance of a good backdrop for your wine selfies.
7. Fenn Valley Vineyards (Fennville)
Fenn Valley Vineyards is like that laid-back friend who’s secretly a genius.
Don’t let the unassuming red barn exterior fool you – this place knows its wine.
Nestled in the heart of Michigan’s “Fruit Belt,” Fenn Valley offers a rustic charm that’s as refreshing as their crisp white wines.
The vineyard views here are pure Michigan magic.
Rolling hills covered in neat rows of vines stretch out as far as the eye can see, punctuated by patches of woodland.
It’s the kind of scenery that makes you want to grab a glass, find a comfy Adirondack chair, and contemplate the meaning of life.
Or at least the meaning of good wine.
8. St. Julian Winery (Paw Paw)
St. Julian Winery is the wise old grandparent of Michigan’s wine scene.
As the state’s oldest and largest winery, it’s seen trends come and go, but it’s stuck to what it does best – making darn good wine.
The Paw Paw location might not have the rolling hills of some other wineries, but what it lacks in elevation, it makes up for in charm and history.
The tasting room, with its welcoming brick facade and cheery blue umbrellas, feels like stepping into a friend’s backyard – if your friend happened to be a master winemaker.
And while the views might be more modest here, the wines are anything but.
Plus, there’s something to be said for a place that’s been perfecting its craft since before most of us were born.
9. Bowers Harbor Vineyards (Traverse City)
Bowers Harbor Vineyards is like that perfect fall day you wish would never end, but in winery form.
Perched on the Old Mission Peninsula, this family-owned gem offers views that’ll make your heart skip a beat – or maybe that’s just the wine talking.
The tasting room, with its cozy porch and fire pit, feels like the best kind of outdoor living room.
And the views?
Rolling vineyards that seem to tumble right into the sparkling waters of Grand Traverse Bay.
It’s the kind of place that makes you seriously consider ditching city life for a career in grape-growing.
Even if your gardening experience is limited to that sad basil plant on your windowsill.
10. Ciccone Vineyard & Winery (Suttons Bay)
Last but certainly not least, we have Ciccone Vineyard & Winery.
Yes, it’s that Ciccone – as in Madonna’s family.
But trust me, the wines here are the real stars.
Perched high on a hill in Suttons Bay, this winery offers views that are (dare I say it?) borderline spiritual.
The classic red barn tasting room looks like it was plucked straight out of a Norman Rockwell painting, if Norman Rockwell had a thing for world-class wines.
And the panoramic views of Grand Traverse Bay?
They’re so breathtaking, you might find yourself involuntarily striking a yoga pose.
Namaste, indeed.
There you have it, folks – a tour of Michigan’s wine country that’s sure to leave you dizzy (and not just from the wine).
Satisfy your taste for adventure!
This map has all the stops you need to make every meal a memorable one.
Cheers to good views, great wines, and the inevitable “I should buy a vineyard” thoughts!