If Vines Could Talk

Episode 148 closes out our five-part miniseries on Michigan varieties with grower and winemaker Dan Nitz. Dan manages hundreds of acres of vineyards and produces some of the most respected ice wine in the region. We recorded this conversation in July 2025, and it is a clear look at the work, risk, and reward behind frozen gold. If you have ever wondered why ice wine carries the price it does, this episode lays it out. Michigan is uniquely suited to ice wine, and Dan explains the process with the honesty and depth that define his work. Visit nitzwines.com to learn more and to order this delicious ice wine.© Steve Salisbury. Produced by Steve Salisbury. All rights reserved.

Matt Killman returns for the fourth episode in our miniseries on Michigan varieties. We explore cool climate grapes that thrive in Michigan, especially those that perform well in the Tip of the Mitt AVA. Matt is an owner and winemaker at Walloon Lake Winery, and his work has made him a respected voice in the world of cold hardy vines. Recorded in June 2025. Learn more at walloonlakewinery.com or reach Matt at [email protected]. Visit the Straits Area Grape Growing Association at straitsgrapesmi.org and explore the Petoskey Wine Region at petoskey.wine. © Steve Salisbury. Produced by Steve Salisbury. All rights reserved.

Maxx Eichberg returns for the third episode in our miniseries on Michigan varieties. Today we focus on Pinot Noir, recorded in July 2025, with a detailed look at why this grape thrives in Michigan. Maxx also shares his perspective on conscious consumerism and the importance of informed buying decisions. Learn more at strangerwine.com or reach him at [email protected]. © Steve Salisbury. Produced by Steve Salisbury. All rights reserved.

Andrew Backlin returns for the second episode in our miniseries on Michigan varieties. Today we focus on Sauvignon Blanc, recorded in June in the old tasting room with a cricket that refused to stay quiet. Andrew’s immense breadth of knowledge continues to shape the future of Modales, where he now serves as head winemaker & proprietor. Learn more at modaleswines.com or follow on Facebook and Instagram at modaleswines. © Steve Salisbury. Produced by Steve Salisbury. All rights reserved.

Amy Birk returns as we launch a new five-part miniseries focused on Michigan varieties. In this episode we explore Cabernet Franc. Recorded in June 2025, this conversation also looks ahead to the 2024 vintage, which promises to be something extraordinary. Amy’s passion for her craft shines through every moment. Learn more at domaineberrien.com or reach the winery at [email protected]. © Steve Salisbury. Produced by Steve Salisbury. All rights reserved.

Episode 143 features Tom Knighton of Blustone Vineyards in the final episode of our three part series on Michigan Red Wine. We recorded this last July and dive into the evolution of red wine in Michigan, highlighting how winemakers like Tom are producing fabulous reds. Tom’s passion for quality and vision for Blustone shine through in this thoughtful conversation. Contact Tom at [email protected] and explore more at blustonevineyards.com. © Steve Salisbury. Produced by Steve Salisbury. All rights reserved.

Andrew Backlin, Head Winemaker and Proprietor at Modales, joins me in the original Modales tasting room for a conversation about Michigan's Red Wine Story. We talk about the evolution of red wine in the state, and how Michigan winemakers are producing red wines with depth, structure, and identity. Andrew is now part owner of Modales and president of the Michigan Wine Collaborative. A cricket joined us during the recording, adding a little extra character to the session. Visit modaleswines.com for more on Andrew’s work. © Steve Salisbury. Produced by Steve Salisbury. All rights reserved.

Amy Birk, co-owner and winemaker at Domaine Berrien Cellars in Berrien Springs, joins the podcast to talk about Michigan’s red wine story. We explore why red grapes thrive in this region, why Cabernet Franc, Merlot, and Lemberger stand out, and how Amy approaches her work as one of the rising leaders in Michigan wine. The first of a three-part series with Michigan winemakers. Reach Amy at domaineberrien.com or email her at [email protected]. © Steve Salisbury 2026. Produced by Steve Salisbury. All rights reserved.

In this final episode of our four-part series on vineyard care through the seasons, I sit down once again with Mike de Schaaf, Farm Manager at MSU Extension in Benton Harbor. Mike brings a steady, thoughtful approach to vineyard work, and today we explore the fall season and everything leading up to and including harvest. Learn more about MSU’s work at https://www.canr.msu.edu/swmrec/ and explore wine education at lakemichigancollege.edu/wine. © Steve Salisbury. Produced by Steve Salisbury. All rights reserved.

Episode 139 features Mike de Schaaf, Farm Manager at MSU Extension in Benton Harbor. This is the third of four conversations covering vineyard care through the seasons. Today we focus on summer and explore thinning, irrigation and disease control. Learn more at https://www.canr.msu.edu/swmrec/ and lakemichigancollege.edu/wine. © Steve Salisbury. Produced by Steve Salisbury. All rights reserved.

Episode 138 features Mike de Schaaf, Farm Manager at MSU Extension in Benton Harbor. This is the second of a four-part series focused on vineyard care for each season. Today we explore spring and discuss frost protection, bud break, fertilizer and disease. Mike also shares insight into his role at Lake Michigan College. Learn more about his work at https://www.canr.msu.edu/swmrec/ and lakemichigancollege.edu/wine. © Steve Salisbury. Produced by Steve Salisbury. All rights reserved.

Episode 137 features Mike de Schaaf, Farm Manager at MSU Extension in Benton Harbor, joining me for the first installment of a four part series on vineyard care through the seasons. Today we explore winter, the critical pruning season that sets the tone for the entire year. We also highlight Mike’s work at Lake Michigan College and point listeners to Episode 64 for his background and story. Learn more about MSU’s work at https://www.canr.msu.edu/swmrec/ and explore the wine program at lakemichigancollege.edu/wine. © Steve Salisbury. Produced by Steve Salisbury. All rights reserved.

This episode features a summer conversation with Ben Guerrin, recorded during his time as Vineyard Manager at Modales. We explore organic certification, the responsibilities of a vineyard manager, the challenges that define each season, and the collaborative relationship between vineyard and winery. Ben now serves as Agronomy Sales, Account Relationship Manager for Keystone Co-op, supporting grape growers across Michigan with crop protection, fertility solutions, disease control, and nutrition. Contact Ben at [email protected] or 616-239-5607. Learn more about Modales at modaleswines.com.© Steve Salisbury. Produced by Steve Salisbury. All rights reserved.

Many listeners have asked me to share my story, and this episode brings it forward. I also explain what is ahead while my wife and I travel abroad. I have prepared a full arc of episodes that will continue each week. We begin with my own story, then move into the vineyard with its pulse and the seasons. From there we explore the varieties that define Michigan wine, including red grapes, Cabernet Franc, Sauvignon Blanc, Pinot Noir, Ice Wines and other cool climate strengths. We also hear from voices who carry forward soil, soul and regional heritage, and close with a look at marketing and industry. These episodes are designed to keep the conversation moving and to offer a deeper look at Michigan wine. Visit ifvinescouldtalk.com or contact me at [email protected]. © Steve Salisbury. Produced by Steve Salisbury. All rights reserved.

In this episode, I sit down once again with Tim Godfrey, now serving as Program Director for Agriculture, Culinary Management, and Wine and Viticulture at Lake Michigan College. Tim brings insight, humor, and honesty as we explore the challenges of winemaking. We also discuss the winemaking program at Lake Michigan College, why it is worth exploring, and take a detailed look at sulfites. Learn more at lakemichiganvintners.com and lakemichigancollege.edu/wine or contact Tim at [email protected]. © Steve Salisbury. Produced by Steve Salisbury. All rights reserved.

Join me for Episode 133 as I visit with Folklor, a remarkable farm and winery in Charlevoix owned by Izabela Babinska and Derrick Vogel. I walked the farm with Iza in October, tasted several of their excellent wines with Derrick a few days later, and then sat down with both of them for a fun interview in late November. They are a delightful couple whose work reflects deep care for the land and a commitment to sustainable agriculture. During my visit, they were in the middle of their organic certification process, which they have now completed. Learn more at folklorwinecider.com © Steve Salisbury. Produced by Steve Salisbury. All rights reserved.

In this episode, Tony Jacobson walks through his journey from Sleepy Creek in Illinois, to ten years in Traverse City, to his work with Mawby, and finally to launching Loose Cannon. Tony also leads the P.45 Wines and Vines group, a collaborative space for growers and winemakers. Learn more at loosecannon.wine or reach Tony at [email protected]. Follow on Instagram at loosecannon.wine or tonymakeswine. © Steve Salisbury. Produced by Steve Salisbury. All rights reserved.

Episode 131 features Chalet Sturgeon in Pouring Premium. We explore the February event with Domaine Berrien and Watermark Brewing, and highlight the Local Pour experience with conversations across Michigan wineries. For inquiries, contact [email protected] or call 269-405-1262. © Steve Salisbury. Produced by Steve Salisbury. All rights reserved.

Episode 130 features Kristy McClellan, a true Michigan Wine Advocate. From her early start at Brittany's Oyster Bar in Charlevoix to her years at Argonne Supper Club and Tapa Wingo, Kristy built her foundation in hospitality before studying at Michigan State University. Her career took her to J. Alexander, where she became Wine Buyer in Denver, and then to 12 years at Bower’s Harbor. Today she owns Lake District Wine in Traverse City, a shop dedicated to small producers, and serves as Director of Sales at Left Foot Charley since 2020. Learn more at lakedistrictwine.com or reach Kristy at [email protected], [email protected], or 231-620-1170. © Steve Salisbury. Produced by Steve Salisbury. All rights reserved.

This episode takes you inside Up North, a wine tasting room in Geneva, Illinois, dedicated to showcasing northern Michigan wines. We feature 14 remarkable producers: Big Little Wines, Black Star Farms, Bonobo, Blustone, Left Foot Charley, Bel Lago Vineyard, French Valley Vineyard, Mawby, Shady Lane Cellars, Verterra, Brys Estate, BOS Wines, and Mari Vineyards. Discover more at upnorthwinegeneva.com, reach out at [email protected], and follow Instagram @upnorthwinetasting. © Steve Salisbury. Produced by Steve Salisbury. All rights reserved.

From Missouri roots to Michigan vineyards, Chaz Judy brings a unique perspective shaped by culinary school, a strong sense of smell, and years of experience at Pyrtle Winery. At Petoskey Farms, he helps run the winery more like a restaurant, blending hospitality with winemaking. We talk about his journey, his collaborations with Andy, Tracie, and Derrick Vogel, and his 2024 Blaufrankish. Learn more at petoskeyfarms.com and the region at petoskey.wine. Follow Chaz on Instagram @winemaker_chaz. © Steve Salisbury. Produced by Steve Salisbury. All rights reserved.

Episode 127 features Ellie Mullins from P&E Bottle Shop. We explore the story behind the shop, the arrival of Peony Pinot Noir, and how Michigan wine continues to thrive in local retail spaces. Learn more at pebottleshop.com or reach out at [email protected].© Steve Salisbury. Produced by Steve Salisbury. All rights reserved.

Lyn M. (L.M.) Archer shares her discoveries in Leelanau Peninsula and Old Mission Peninsula, her Substack dedicated to bubbles, and her focus on sustainability and traditional method sparkling wine. With a Champagne designation and thoughtful insights, she discusses the challenges and allure of the wine business. Hear her recommendations for bubbles from Black Star Farms, Mawby, Mari, and Left Foot Charley. Learn more at lmarcher.com, https://redt.substack.com/, and Instagram @lmarcherml. © Steve Salisbury. Produced by Steve Salisbury. All rights reserved.

In this episode, I sit down with Olivia Anguilm and Nick Allen of WaterFire, longtime friends who found themselves running a winery almost by surprise. Nick’s agricultural roots and Olivia’s business and hospitality skills are guiding their vision for a sustainable, cozy vineyard experience. We talk about their plans for Riesling, Grüner Veltliner, Blaufränkisch, and more, as well as their hopes for micro weddings, rentals among the vines, and keeping the quaint aesthetic alive. Learn more about WaterFire at waterfirewine.com or reach them at [email protected]. Follow them on Facebook and Instagram. © Steve Salisbury. Produced by Steve Salisbury. All rights reserved.

In Episode 124 of If Vines Could Talk, we sit down with sustainability consultant Winnie Guerra to explore the roots and realities of organic winegrowing. From regenerative practices to the business case for sustainability, Winnie shares insights that matter for growers, winemakers, and wine lovers alike. Follow her on Instagram @winnie.g or reach her at [email protected]. © Steve Salisbury. Produced by Steve Salisbury. All rights reserved.

Bob Utter of Flying Otter Vineyard joins us to talk about growing grapes in Southeast Michigan. With an engineering background and a deep dive into viticulture, Bob shares how cold-hardy varieties like Marquette, Petite Pearl, and Frontenac Blanc thrive in Michigan’s climate. He explains why Blaufränkisch didn’t work, how Geneva Double Curtain and single highwire lateral cordon training support growth, and why he prefers the term “cold-hardy” over “hybrid.” Whether you’re a grower, winemaker, or enthusiast, this episode offers practical insight into crafting wine from the ground up. Learn more at flyingotter.com or reach out at [email protected]. © Steve Salisbury. Produced by Steve Salisbury. All rights reserved. 

In Episode 122, we sit down with Michael Wells of Black Fire Winery, located near Tecumseh in Southeast Michigan. Michael is Michigan’s first Black winemaker and brewer, and his journey is as bold as the wines he crafts. We talk about his inspiration, his process, and what it means to break new ground in Michigan’s wine scene. Visit blackfirewinery.com or call the tasting room at 517-424-9232 to learn more.

In Episode 121, we meet Lauren Burns of Tending Tilth, a contract grazier restoring prairie and grasslands across Southwest Michigan. Lauren shares her experience working with the Southwest Michigan Land Conservancy, grazing at Stranger’s Vineyard, and launching her new business focused on meat and hides. Learn how she met Maxx and Sidney through a shepherd in Buchanan, and how her work blends ecology, agriculture, and community. Visit tendingtilth.com or contact Lauren at [email protected] or 269-888-3945. Follow her new venture on Instagram: @grasssaltandtallow.© Steve Salisbury. Produced by Steve Salisbury. All rights reserved.

Anna Rafalski of Granor Farm joins us to talk about Granor Farm, a bold new venture in Michigan’s beverage scene. As General Manager and Beverage Director, Anna curates a wine list featuring Stranger, Mawby, and bigLITTLE, alongside their own spirits: gin, vermouth, rye, and bourbon. We discuss the vision of owners Rob Buono and Liz Cichelli, and how Granor is redefining agritourism through hospitality and craft. For event inquiries, visit granorfarm.com or email [email protected]. Questions for Anna? [email protected].© Steve Salisbury. Produced by Steve Salisbury. All rights reserved. Photo of Anna Rafalski credited to EE Berger, decolorized by Steve Salisbury.

In Episode 119, Lauren Kniebes joins to explore three standout Pinot Noirs from Dreihart, Poetson and Stranger Wine Co. The conversation highlights Old Shore Vineyard’s southeast and southwest-facing slopes, which contribute to optimal ripening and freshness. © Steve Salisbury. Produced by Steve Salisbury. All rights reserved.

Drew Perry of Simpson Family Estates shares his disciplined approach to vinifera-only winemaking across Aurora Cellars and Good Harbor Vineyards. We discuss production strategy, varietal integrity, and the legacy of Michigan wine. simpsonfamilyestates.com auroracellars.com goodharbor.com [email protected] © Steve Salisbury. Produced by Steve Salisbury. All rights reserved.

Today we talk with Matt Killman of Walloon Lake Winery. Known for his deep understanding of hybrid grapes and terroir, Matt shares insights into his winemaking philosophy and the unique character of Walloon Lake. This episode offers a thoughtful look at the artistry behind Michigan wine and the subtle power of place. Learn more at walloonlakewinery.com or contact Matt directly at [email protected]. © Steve Salisbury. Produced by Steve Salisbury. All rights reserved.

Gottfried Hart of Dreihart Winery is a winemaker whose legacy spans Michigan and Germany. From his family’s vineyards in Eibelstadt to his new tasting room in Three Oaks, Gottfried shares his journey, his winemaking philosophy, and his commitment to dry, complex wines rooted in European tradition. Visit dreihart.6linden.com or contact [email protected] for more. © Steve Salisbury. Produced by Steve Salisbury. All rights reserved.

In this episode, I sit down with Sean O'Keefe, former winemaker at Mari Vineyards, to explore his approach to winemaking and the stories behind the blends. Learn about the legacy of Teresa Mari, the vision of owners Marty and Olivia Lagina, and the mystery of Row 7. Since recording, Sean has moved on to new ventures, but his voice remains rooted in Michigan soil. © Steve Salisbury. Produced by Steve Salisbury. All rights reserved.

In this episode, we reconnect with Paula Camp, first featured in episode 56, as she prepares for the sold-out Jacques Pépin Foundation Benefit Dinner on October 19 at Houndstooth in Benton Harbor. This special event honors Jacques Pépin’s 90th birthday and his enduring legacy in culinary education. Paula’s collaboration with Chefs Cheyenne Galbraith and Jean Joho includes a stellar cast of Michigan wineries: Stranger Wine Co, Domaine Berrien, Lake Michigan Vintners, Modales, and Veritas Estate. They come together to set the table for an unforgettable evening. We also highlight Debutant, a cider created in Jacques’ honor and discuss the growing identity of Southwest Michigan as a destination for wine, food, and regenerative agriculture. For more information, visit carriagehouse.love or call 312-961-0363.© Steve Salisbury. Produced by Steve Salisbury. All rights reserved.

Taylor Simpson shares a major update. She and her brother Sam are now partners with others in Michigan by the Bottle, expanding her leadership across Good Harbor, Aurora Cellars, Harbor Hill services, and MBTB tasting rooms in Auburn Hills, Royal Oak, and Shelby Township. This episode explores her vision for stewardship and the evolving landscape of Michigan wine. michiganbythebottle.com or [email protected] © Steve Salisbury. Produced by Steve Salisbury. All rights reserved.

Bryan Ulbrich, owner and winemaker at Left Foot Charley, joins us to share his journey from history and law to pioneering Northern Michigan’s first urban winery. In this episode, Bryan discusses his grower-first philosophy, innovative vineyard management, and commitment to mentoring future winemakers. Recorded in the barn, complete with ambient sounds of birds and farm equipment. Visit leftfootcharley.com to learn more. © Steve Salisbury. Produced by Steve Salisbury. All rights reserved.

In this premier episode featuring home winemakers and grape growers, we meet Mike and Craig, two friends who are making remarkable wines off the radar. With grapes grown in clay, gravel, and rock, and varietals ranging from Tannat to Riesling, they’re building something special. We tasted their Super Tuscan 2022, Meritage 2017, and Tannat 2020 while exploring their process and philosophy. These wines aren’t available commercially. You have to know them to taste them. If you have questions, contact your host at [email protected]. © Steve Salisbury. Produced by Steve Salisbury. All rights reserved.

In Episode 110, we take you through a decanting journey using a Hickory Creek 2021 Merlot Carmenere tasted at zero, 30, 75, 120, and 180 minutes. The evolution was striking. Each stage revealed distinct textures, aromas, and clarity. We share practical tips to help you decant with confidence and reflect on how slowing down can deepen your connection to the wine. Whether you’re pouring for friends or sipping solo, this episode offers a fresh appreciation for the ritual.Michigan Governor’s Cup awards can be found here: https://wineindustryadvisor.com/2025/06/04/2025-taste-michigan-governors-cup-results/

Mike Laing didn’t set out to lead one of Michigan’s most iconic sparkling wine houses, but the vineyard his parents planted in Lake Leelanau in 2002 quietly set the stage. After leaving teaching in Chicago, he joined MAWBY in 2007, just as the winery was doubling down on its sparkling focus. Today, Mike and his brother Peter carry forward MAWBY’s 50-year legacy while pushing boundaries with nonalcoholic bubbly, irreverent branding, and a second label rooted in memory: bigLITTLE. From the philosophy of MAWBYness to the story behind Safe Sex, Mike shares how personal history, customer feedback, and a refusal to be stuffy shape everything they do. Sparkling wine, he insists, should be fun, and Michigan’s wine story is just getting started. Learn more at mawby.wine and biglittlewines.com Contact: [email protected] Governor’s Cup awards can be found here: https://wineindustryadvisor.com/2025/06/04/2025-taste-michigan-governors-cup-results/

Episode 108 features an in-depth conversation with the new owners of Free Run Cellars, Tricia Slevin and Prashanth Pais. Drawing inspiration from the Sanskrit phrase “Atithidevo Bhav,” meaning "a guest is akin to God," they’ve crafted Free Run into a place of intentional hospitality and emotional sanctuary. Tune in for a deep dive into the philosophy, design, and quiet excellence that shape this unique Southwest Michigan destination. Learn more at freeruncellars.com or connect directly via [email protected] and 269-815-6885. Resources referenced in the episode:https://www.berkshirepublishing.com/title/tggp-2023/https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/most-consumers-will-spend-more-at-businesses-with-clean-restrooms-300815601.htmlMichigan Governor’s Cup awards can be found here:https://wineindustryadvisor.com/2025/06/04/2025-taste-michigan-governors-cup-results/

Joe Herman, longtime steward of Karma Vista Vineyards, is back on the show. Since selling the property, Joe has embraced a more relaxed pace while diving into regenerative agriculture and the future of sustainable viticulture. Tune in to hear his insights, reflections, and a dose of Michigan vineyard wisdom. Contact Joe at [email protected] and other resources:The Devil's Element by Dan Egan www.amazon.com/Devils-Element-Phosphorus-World-Balance/dp/1324002666 Dirt to Soil by Gabe Brown www.chelseagreen.com/product/dirt-to-soil Entangled Life by Merlin Sheldrake www.merlinsheldrake.com/entangled-life Growing a Revolution by David R. Montgomery www.amazon.com/Growing-Revolution-Bringing-Soil-Back/dp/0393608328 The Art of Balancing Soil Nutrients by William McKibben bookstore.acresusa.com/products/the-art-of-balancing-soil-nutrients Hands-On Agronomy by Neal Kinsey & Charles Walters bookstore.acresusa.com/products/hands-on-agronomy Common Ground (Prime Video) www.amazon.com/Common-Ground-Joshua-Tickell/dp/B0DSQ7LC5W Kiss the Ground (Prime Video) www.amazon.com/Kiss-Ground-Woody-Harrelson/dp/B08KZCL4X2 Elaine Ingham (YouTube) www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLdh7A7CwJ_djfIG1ecN8mCeOG4MsqcY4e Regenerative Agriculture Podcast by John Kempf open.spotify.com/show/14s0owdUUxjTYUeNXpWnv8 Michigan Governor’s Cup awards can be found here: https://wineindustryadvisor.com/2025/06/04/2025-taste-michigan-governors-cup-results/

Dan Nitz joins the podcast for a timely episode as harvest approaches. As a fifth-generation grower and one of the largest producers of vinifera grapes east of the Rockies, Dan brings unmatched experience and insight into Michigan’s wine industry. From the foundational values behind Nitz Wines to the custom crush operations at Arrowhead Vineyards, this episode highlights the energy, preparation, and historical depth that fuel the countdown to crush. Learn more at nitzwines.com and arrowheadvyds.com. Michigan Governor’s Cup awards can be found here: https://wineindustryadvisor.com/2025/06/04/2025-taste-michigan-governors-cup-results/

New winery alert! Learn about the man behind Poetson. Alex McNeely has built a career in East Coast beverage programs and now brings that expertise to Michigan wine. This episode explores his professional pivot, his interest in the region’s potential, and how experienced talent can shape Southwest Michigan’s wine community. Learn more at poetsonwine.com or contact Alex directly at [email protected].

In this episode, I sit down with Neal Hulkower, an applied mathematician and longtime wine writer based in Oregon. Neal’s deep dive into comparative tastings spans decades, and his recent blind tasting of Oregon and Michigan Pinot Noirs offers a fresh perspective on how our state’s wines stack up. We discuss his methodology, including the Borda count and stars and bars analysis, and reflect on the results. Featured Michigan wines include Bel Lago, Chateau Fontaine, and Black Star Farms.For questions, Neal can be reached at [email protected] out his book, "Grape Explications":https://www.oregonwinepress.com/article?articleTitle=grape-explications%21--1751386610--3868--newsCheck out his related articles: “Smitten with the Mitten”: https://www.oregonwinepress.com/article?articleTitle=smitten-with-the-mitten--1741054267--3834 “Borda is Better”: https://www.oregonwinepress.com/article?articleTitle=borda-is-better--1317231621--959--Michigan Governor’s Cup awards can be found here: https://wineindustryadvisor.com/2025/06/04/2025-taste-michigan-governors-cup-results/

In this episode of If Vines Could Talk, we step into the cellar with Stranger Wine Co. to explore their bold winemaking approach. We taste through an exceptional lineup, including: - 2023 Grüner – Outcross Vineyard, LMS - 2024 Kerner – Lyons Estate, OMP - 2024 Cabernet Franc Blanc Pet Nat (Yeastie Boys) – Fernweh Vineyards, OMP - 2024 Carbonic Pinot Noir – Shady Lane Estate, LP - 2023 Pinot Noir – Old Shore, LMS - 2023 Cabernet Franc – Domaine Berrien, LMS Find out more at www.strangerwineco.com or email them at [email protected]. Michigan Governor’s Cup awards can be found here: https://wineindustryadvisor.com/2025/06/04/2025-taste-michigan-governors-cup-results/

Travel and wine go hand in hand, and today’s guest knows exactly how to blend the two. Laura Danforth, The Wine Travelista, shares her experiences visiting wineries in the Lake Michigan Shore AVA, offering insights on where to sip and explore. If planning a Michigan wine trip feels overwhelming, she’s got you covered. Check out her guide at winetravelista.thrivecart.com/new-buffalo-wine-country-itinerary and get ready to explore Michigan’s wine country in style. Find more of her work at winetravelista.com, or reach out at [email protected].

In this episode, Steve and Jayme blind taste three Sauvignon Blancs from different regions—Marlborough, Loire Valley, and Michigan’s own Lake Michigan Shore. They explore aromatics, balance, and the unique winemaking styles behind each. To wrap it up, Modales Head Winemaker Andrew Backlin shares insight into his upcoming 2024 Sauvignon Blanc release.

Eckhard Kaesekamp is the force behind Knights Grapevine Nursery. With 38 years of experience in grapevine propagation, Eckhard shares his expertise on viticulture, the role of a nursery in shaping vineyards, and the importance of a family-owned approach to the business. Discover some the “roots” of Michigan’s wine industry and the commitment to quality that drives Knights Grapevine Nursery forward. Learn more at knightsgrapevinenursery.com.

This episode kicks off our June series featuring outside perspectives on Michigan’s wine scene and other regions. Today, we turn to Ningxia, China, an emerging wine region gaining global recognition. Our exploration includes visits to five wineries: Yuange, Yuanshi, Silver Heights, Kanaan, and Longyu. Join us as we examine Ningxia’s winemaking traditions, terroir, and a broader look at China wine culture.