If you’re a fan of wine, the Lake Michigan Shore Wine Trail offers a fantastic opportunity to experience West Michigan’s top wineries. Stretching from Benton Harbor to Holland, this wine trail is a must-visit destination, and the best part? Winter might just be the perfect time to explore it.

While many people flock to the area during the summer, visiting in winter means fewer crowds and a more tranquil experience. The crisp winter air and quiet atmosphere make for a peaceful getaway, and you’ll still be able to savor the warm, summery flavors in the glass. Winter allows you to escape the busy season and enjoy a slower pace while discovering the distinct wines of this beautiful region.

The Lake Michigan Shore Wine Trail

Established in 2001, the Lake Michigan Shore Wine Trail was formed by local wineries aiming to promote wine tourism and highlight the exceptional wine producers in the area. The region’s climate, with its proximity to Lake Michigan, offers a unique temperate environment that is ideal for growing a variety of wine grapes. The region is particularly known for Chardonnay, Pinot Grigio, and Merlot, but it also produces distinctive wines such as Pinot Noir, Cabernet Franc, and Gewürztraminer.

Several wineries along the trail have earned recognition for their award-winning wines. For instance, Lemon Creek Winery and 12 Corners Vineyards have received multiple accolades, including gold medals for their 2017 Cabernet Franc and 2018 Vidal Icewine, respectively, at the Finger Lakes Wine Competition.

Exploring the Wineries Along the Trail

The Lake Michigan Shore Wine Trail is home to 15 member wineries, divided into four regions: north, central, east, and south. Each region offers its own unique charm and wines, giving you plenty of variety to explore. Depending on your preferences, you can focus on one region or take a broader approach and sample wineries from all four.

Here are the wineries in each region:

• North (South Haven and Fennville Area):
  • Cogdal Vineyards
  • Fenn Valley Vineyards
• Central (Benton Harbor, Coloma, and St. Joseph Areas):
  • 12 Corners Winery
  • Contessa Wine Cellars
  • Karma Vista Vineyards
  • White Pine Winery
  • Lake Michigan Vintners
• East (Paw Paw, Mattawan, and Kalamazoo Areas):
  • Cody Kresta Vineyard and Winery
  • Lawton Ridge Winery
  • St. Julian Winery and Distillery
• South (Baroda, Buchanan, and Berrien Springs Areas):
  • Baroda Founders Wine Cellar
  • Chill Hill Winery
  • Domaine Berrien Cellars
  • Hickory Creek Winery
  • Lemon Creek Winery

A Winter Wine Adventure

Visiting the wineries during the winter months gives you the chance to enjoy this beautiful region in a more relaxed atmosphere. While the wineries are still open and offering tastings, there are fewer visitors, which makes for a more intimate and peaceful experience. Plus, the scenic beauty of West Michigan’s lakeshore in winter, with its snowy landscapes and quiet charm, makes for a memorable trip.

And once winter is over, you can return during the warmer months to revisit your favorite spots and enjoy a completely different vibe.

Plan Ahead

Due to ongoing COVID-19 restrictions in some parts of West Michigan, it’s a good idea to call ahead and book reservations for tastings. Wineries are taking all necessary precautions to ensure a safe experience for both visitors and staff, so you can enjoy your wine tour with peace of mind.

Winter offers a unique way to experience the Lake Michigan Shore Wine Trail. Whether you’re a wine connoisseur or just looking to relax in a beautiful setting, the wineries here provide an exceptional experience year-round.