The Best Winery and Vineyards in Traverse City Michigan

Are you ready for a tour of Traverse City Wineries and Vineyards?

The Traverse City wine coast awaits you with many tasting experiences and a wide variety of wines. There are nearly 40 wineries within Michigan’s 150-plus territory. That means there is plenty to choose from.

This wine region is a major player in Traverse City MI tourism. Its proximity to the Sleeping Bear Dunes as well as its prime location in Grand Traverse County are just a few of the reasons.

Boat tours on Grand Traverse Bay, wine dinners, and wine tours are available. You can also take wine and beer tours starting in downtown Traverse City. These Michigan wineries are worth a visit, whether you’re visiting Traverse City on a day trip or a romantic weekend getaway.

It might be worth considering a wine-tasting trip or a weekend getaway.

Continue reading to learn more about our top Traverse City wineries so that you can plan your trip now to the most exclusive and unique. Scroll down to see an interactive map of Traverse City wineries.

The Traverse City Wine District: The 45th Parallel

Here you’ll find world-class wines. Traverse City is on the 45 ^th parallel. This is the same location as many of Europe’s top-rated wine makers.

It has the same climate as many of Europe’s great wine regions: France’s Bordeaux, Rhone Valley and Italy’s Piedmont.

The naturally beautiful landscapes of Traverse City will also provide dramatic views.

You’ll enjoy the beautiful views from Grand Traverse Bay on the Leelanau Peninsula and the breathtaking blue waters of Grand Traverse Bay on the Leelanau Peninsula.

Traverse City Wineries

Left Foot Charley Winery & Tasting Room

Left Foot Charley, a modern winery/cider maker located in The Village At Grand Traverse Commons is an urban winery. The environment is super friendly, with a patio that’s dog-friendly.

We love their whites, but they also have reds. But, the best part about the place is the appetizers. They offer the most delicious charcuterie boards. You’ll find plenty of space and a sandbox for your kids to play in the restaurant. This is a must-do if you are visiting for the National Cherry Festival.

Old Mission Peninsula Wineries

The Old Mission Peninsula Wine Trail

The Old Mission Peninsula is located between Michigan’s pinky fingers (also known the Leelanau Peninsula), and the rest the mitten. It juts out into Grand Traverse Bay and splits it into the East and West arms.

Old Mission boasts some of the most beautiful views in Michigan’s Lower Peninsula. Michigan’s wine country is here. A glass of Michigan wine from one the many charming wineries along the Old Mission Peninsula Wine Trail is the perfect pairing for the stunning bay view.

The Michigan wine trail runs along the entire peninsula from Traverse City at the base to Mission Point Lighthouse at the top.

You will find the top wineries in Michigan here, whether they’re local favorites or hidden gems.

2 Lads Winery

2 Lads is the first winery on our Old Mission Peninsula list. This winery’s modern approach to winemaking is one of many things that make it stand out from other Old Mission Wineries.

You can enjoy one of their red wines guilt-free because they are an eco-friendly operation. Visitors love the 2 Lads Wine Club. You’ll get two shipments each year of your favorite wines when you join.

We love their silky Pinot Noir. Photo by Kyle Brownley; Chateau Chautal

Chateau Chantal Winery and Hotel

Photo by Kyle Brownley; Chateau Chautal

Chateau Chantal is one of the most beautiful Traverse City wineries. The view from the bay’s blue waters is unbeatable, if you are perched on top of rolling hills.

Chateau Chantal winery and vineyard hosts special events that highlight their amazing variety of wines. And just when you think the wine is good enough, they offer delicious food pairings to enhance their wine.

It is a Michigan experience to sit outside on Chateau Chantal’s patio on a beautiful sunny day, with a glass ( We like the semi-dry Riesling). and Old Mission views are the backdrop.

Chateau Chantal is also a stunning venue for a wedding. The romantic views of the vineyards are hard to beat.

Tabone Vineyards

Tabone Vineyards is one of the top wineries in Traverse City. Tabone Vineyards is a winery that focuses on white wines and produces a variety of whites such as Reisling, Chardonnay, and Pinot Gris. Their white wines are well-crafted with sweet fruity notes, which is no surprise considering their focus.

Tabone is a favorite stop on your Michigan wine tour if you enjoy fruity wines. The winter hours of the tasting room are different so make sure you call ahead.

Bowers Harbor Vineyards

Bowers Harbor is a Michigan vineyard with a special history. The dog-friendly property was originally a horse farm. It eventually became a vineyard. The site’s tasting room is now located in the old stables.

There are many wineries that make wines of all sorts. This gem is a great place to find variety and a friendly environment. Bowers Harbor is pet-friendly during warmer months. You can bring your furry friend too.

Bonobo Winery

Bonobo, on the Old Mission Peninsula, is a great place to relax and enjoy a wine tasting experience. Two brothers who were born and raised in T.C. founded it and the place’s atmosphere reflects their respect for the natural beauty of the region.

There are a variety of sparkling wines, reds and whites. Excellent pairings are possible with unique small plates like pots de crème and roasted eggplant.

Brys Estate Vineyard & Winery

Brys Estate was a fixer upper homestead that existed from the 19th century until Walt and Eileen purchased it.

Their wine is the result of the hard work the Bryses put into their vineyard. It’s crafted with passion and love for the winemaking process.

Brys Winery in Traverse City Michigan is an inspiring destination with one of the most heartfelt origin stories among all wineries.

Brys Estate Vineyard and Winery has a favorite activity: Visit the Lawn Bar, where you can sit in an Adirondack Chair and enjoy the beautiful views of the vineyard.

Chateau Grand Traverse

Chateau Grand Traverse winemakers have a passion about growing grapes. The grape is what makes wine for them, and cultivating the best grapes is crucial to their success in winemaking.

They produce a variety of red and white grape varieties, each with its own flavor profile – all delicious. Chateau Grand Traverse is the place where grapes are loved more than any other!

Chateau Grand Traverse, a Traverse City, MI winery, was the first we visited back in the late 90’s. Their dry Rhiesling has been a favourite ever since. You’re sure to enjoy a delicious treat if you pair it with their famous charcuterie boards.

Peninsula Cellars

Peninsula Cellars is a Michigan vineyard unlike any others. The building that became the winery was an old schoolhouse known as Maple Grove School.

They are located in the middle of the trail, making them the friendly neighbor to Chateau Grande Traverse and Bonobo Winery. This charming schoolhouse winery is located in Old Mission, a wine-loving community. It produces award-winning wines and has a deep love for the land it stands on.

Hawthorne Vineyards

Hawthorne Vineyards is about making wine part of everyday life for those who love it. Wine is part of their daily life, and they enjoy sharing it with everyone who visits their private tasting room.

This winery offers wines in red, white and bubbly varieties, so everyone will find something they love.

Mari Vineyards

Mari Vineyards cultivates grapes that aren’t allowed to grow in Michigan. This vineyard is able to produce unique Italian style wines made in Michigan thanks to its creativity and hard work.

Mari Vineyards is the only winery in northern Michigan to have underground barrel aging. This makes it an attractive destination for anyone who is interested in the aging process.

Black Star Farms

Black Star Farms is a fixture in the Michigan wine scene. It’s a must-see destination for Traverse City wine tours.

The winery has expanded to two locations, offering wine tastings in Traverse city and the surrounding areas. Black Star Winery is the best place to find big, bold flavors in a setting that matches. Black Star Farms operates two locations: one in Old Mission Peninsula, and the other is located in Suttons Bay, on the Leelanau Peninsula.

The Suttons Bay location has a winery and destination inn. There are also hiking trails, a café, and a space for events.

Wineries on Leelanau Peninsula

Rove Estate Vineyards

Rover Vineyards is a great place to take in breathtaking views while you try different varieties. It’s located just west of Traverse city. This family-owned vineyard is located at the top of the Leelanau Peninsula (1165ft). It’s a must-see on any northern Michigan wine tour.

Michigan is known for its small-batch, artisanal wine production. Their flavorful win is one of the best kept secrets in Michigan.

Verterra Winery

The Verterra Winery tasting area in downtown Leland (Fishtown), was one of the highlights. Friendly and knowledgeable winery staff welcomed me into their comfortable tasting room. They gave me a taste of the Sparkling Pinot Blanc.

Verterra produces some of the finest sparkling wines in the area at the Ridge At Verterra, their Northport vineyard which offers incredible outdoor tasting experiences.

Verterra isn’t just about sparkling wines. There are also delicious reds, whites and hard cider. You can choose between Ridge or Leland, but we recommend you try them both.

Bel Lago Winery

Do you want to see panoramic views of Lake Leelanau or Lake Michigan from your vineyard? Bel Lago is located just 20 minutes north of Traverse City. Bel Lago winemakers are passionate about reds so there will be some great Pinot Noirs, Cabernets and specialty blends.

You must try the whites, particularly the Austerrois. It is a unique and delicious experience. You can enjoy stunning views of Lake Leelanau from the pretty tasting room.

Shady Lane Cellars

This boutique estate winery in Suttons Bay offers some exceptional Leelanau Peninsula wines. While you will find a tasting room, winery, and vineyard, it is the outdoor patio that will grab your attention.

There are many sparkling and reds, but the Brio Red is a must-try. It’s a deep, unique flavor.

Mawby Vineyards and Winery

Mawby’s sparkling wines have become a legend. Wine lovers of this Suttons Bay winery can enjoy the stunning views from their patio, which overlooks the vineyards. As an appetizer, you’ll want to book a wine tasting with Mawby and also try their whitefish pate.

TIP: Mawby sparkling wines are great gifts. We always have a box of them in stock.

45 North Vineyard & Winery

The family-owned vineyard is located on the Leelanau Peninsula and produces many award-winning wines as well as ciders. This vineyard is a popular stop on wine tours because of its beautiful setting and friendliness. Bonus? It’s dog-friendly, too.

Good Harbor Vineyards

Good Harbor is a laid back winery, just two miles from Lake Michigan on the Leelanau Peninsula. It produces some great wines. Cherry Wine is a great combination of mulling spices and we love it. It is unique and captures the spirit of the Leelanau Traverse City area (no pun intended).

Traverse City Wine Tours

Let someone else drive the car while you relax. This is the safest way to see these wineries. These wine tours are great for anyone who is traveling alone, with a friend, or in a couple.

Grand Traverse Tours

You can choose from either private or public join in tours to wineries on Traverse City’s Old Mission Peninsula and Leelanau Peninsula. You can enjoy the wine tasting while you are driven around in a Mercedes-Benz shuttle or Ford Van, as well as an Escalade.

Travese City Wine and Beer Tours

You can create your own itinerary. Traverse City Wine and Beer Tours will pick you up from your location in a car or limo. You will also receive water and small snacks as you explore the Old Mission Peninsula or the Leelanau Peninsula.

Old Mission Tours

You can visit wineries, distilleries and breweries along the Old Mission.

Trolley and Limousine from Wine Country

They are the only company in the region to have its own vineyard. This gives them an exclusive opportunity to give you an insider’s view of the local wineries. You have the option to either take your wine tour with a Mercedes Limo coach complete with a car or a classic trolley car for 24 passengers.

Things to do in Traverse City

Combining your Traverse City wine tour can be combined with a tour to the top breweries in the area. There are many other things to do in Traverse City. You should visit Traverse City during the summer to see the most beautiful beaches, as well as the hiking trails.

Traverse City is stunning in autumn. A autumn color tour to the area is recommended when it’s ablaze with vibrant colors.

Be sure to dress warmly if you plan on visiting Traverse City during winter. Skiing or snowshoeing is a great way to explore the area. To discover more amazing things to do all year, check out our guide to Traverse City.